1. Scuba diving
Just a 15-minute walk from the centre of Ajaccio, along Boulevard Lantivy, lies an ideal spot for scuba diving: Trottel Beach, with its fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the local scuba diving centre provides all the equipment you need for exploration dives or snorkelling trips. An instructor will accompany you and film your experience. This site, one of the deepest in Europe, offers varied and spectacular seabed features.
If you prefer snorkelling, bring your flippers, mask and snorkel to explore the underwater flora and fauna, either from the beach or by heading to spots accessible by boat.
2. Sea kayaking
From the cove at the Stella di Mare hotel, on the road to the Sanguinaires Islands, set off on a kayaking excursion to explore this unique archipelago. Comprising four rocky islands of volcanic origin, the Sanguinaires Islands are designated a ‘Grand Site de France’ and are home to colonies of seabirds, as well as rare, protected plants.
For a different kind of experience, hire a transparent kayak and admire the beauty of the seabed without straying far from the shore. If paddling doesn’t appeal to you, opt for a pedal boat with a built-in slide – a fun activity for the whole family.
3. A boat cruise
Climb aboard a sailing boat or motorboat and discover the Corsican coastline from a new perspective. Enjoy a day on a catamaran to admire the ‘Isle of Beauty’ from the sea, sailing past iconic sites such as the citadel of Ajaccio, the coast of the Sanguinaires Islands, or the Pointe de Sette Nave.
Other excursions departing from Ajaccio or Porticcio will take you to the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing by hidden coves, caves and spectacular rocky inlets.
4. A jet ski excursion
In the Gulf of Ajaccio, several water sports centres offer jet ski hire – with or without a licence – so you can explore the most beautiful coves on the ‘Isle of Beauty’. Combining breathtaking scenery with an adrenaline rush, this activity is a must-do during any stay in Ajaccio.
Whether you set off from Neptune Beach on the route to the Sanguinaires Islands or from Tino Rossi Harbour, you can choose to hire a jet ski independently or be accompanied by an instructor. On Agosta Beach, on the southern side of Ajaccio-Porticcio, you’ll also find a centre offering a wide range of water sports, including jet-skiing.
5. Parasailing
Fancy getting up high? From the water sports centres in Ajaccio or Porticcio, board a platform boat that will take you more than 500 metres from the shore to take off. Under a large parachute, you’ll rise gently to several dozen metres above the water.
During the ascent, enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Ajaccio. Despite its impressive appearance, parasailing is a peaceful activity, suitable for all ages. To make this experience even more memorable, hire a GoPro camera and capture every moment.
6. A towable tube ride
Looking for a thrill? Opt for a towable tube ride and get ready for fun and plenty of laughter. This activity can be tailored to your fitness level and preferences. Whether you’re sharing a tube fitted with reinforced handles with others, hold on tight when the boat takes off! Whether you choose a banana boat, a lilo or a wakeboard, this experience is both fun and refreshing – ideal for a playful and energetic time out at sea.
7. A canyoning trail
At the foot of the Richiusa Canyon, discover Corsica from a unique perspective. This unforgettable adventure takes you plunging into turquoise waters via natural slides, obstacles, impressive jumps of several metres, and even a zip line.
Kitted out with a wetsuit, helmet, harness and canyoning rucksack, you’ll start with a 45-minute to 1-hour approach walk before beginning the descent, which also takes over an hour. The Richiusa route is suitable for children aged 10 and over, but more challenging routes are also available for thrill-seekers.
8. Windsurfing
On the southern shore of the Gulf of Ajaccio, Portigliolo beach, with its fine sand and crystal-clear waters, is ideal for sailing. The Mare e Vela water sports centre offers windsurf boards, catamarans, stand-up paddleboards and dinghies for hire, which you can book by the hour, for half a day or for a full day.
The team also organises exciting regattas, as well as relaxing activities such as paddleboard yoga. What’s more, the beach serves as a starting point for a kayaking trip to Capo di Muro.
9. A sea fishing experience
Accompanied by a qualified fishing instructor, set sail aboard the Dream of Tuna II for a trip out to sea lasting several hours. You’ll have the chance to try your hand at big-game fishing, inshore fishing or even night fishing.
Learn casting techniques, perfect your line-rigging skills, choose the right lures and discover how to use a fishfinder.
As you explore a rich ecosystem and breathtaking scenery, you’ll have the chance to master various fishing techniques whilst encountering numerous species of fish.
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