IYC Inspiration: An Active Family Escape Cruising Corsica And Sardinia

Day 1: Charming Cavi And Culinary Delights

The family’s journey began when they stepped aboard AWAY in Calvi. Captain Devan and his crew greeted the family with a signature welcome cocktail in hand, and after a relaxed safety briefing, the family took time to explore the historic Citadel of Calvi - a 15th-century Genoese fortress with panoramic views across the bay.

Meandering through the cobblestone streets, they visited landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the house said to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. A couple of family members also headed to the Maison Bonaparte museum to delve into its rich history, while others detoured for artisan gelato.

Back onboard, the first dinner set the tone for the week ahead. Chef Joshua, whose culinary resume includes Michelin-starred kitchens and accolades from the MYBA Chef Competition, served up a delicious dinner, which was enjoyed alfresco on the upper deck.

Day 2: Chasing Adventures

One of the benefits of combining a Corsica and Sardinia yacht charter itinerary is the rhythm of short, scenic cruises between anchorages. The first morning welcomes a gentle cruise to Girolata Bay, a secluded cove within the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve.

This is where AWAY’s full toy collection was first explored: the family snorkeled, paddleboarded, and foiled in crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, Bosun and Tender Captain Jessica took the family out on the Axopar 37 SunTop - a sleek chase boat designed perfectly to explore hidden grottos and rocky coves otherwise unreachable by the larger yachts.

As the sunset turned the volcanic cliff backdrop a fiery orange, sundowners were sipped, and a laid-back barbecue was enjoyed, followed by an impromptu family poker night on the aft deck.

Day 3: Caves And Coastal Trails

After a leisurely breakfast onboard, a short hop to Cappo Rosso called for more snorkeling and sea cave adventures. Then, it was onward to Ajaccio, Corsica’s lively capital and Napoleon’s birthplace.

In the afternoon, the family went ashore together to hike to the Pointe de la Parata lighthouse, which provided beautiful views of the Sanguinaires islands and the Gulf of Ajaccio.

The evening plans split the group, with the parents enjoying a romantic dinner ashore at Le Roi de Roma, a charming spot known for its authentic Corsican cuisine, while the teenagers stayed onboard for a pizza night and an alfresco movie screening, with AWAY’s deck transforming into their very own open-air cinema.

Day 4: Horseback Riding And Hidden Bays

The following morning, AWAY cruised onto Propriano, a laid-back port town. The cruise there was the perfect opportunity for the family to enjoy AWAY’s deck space, soaking up the rays and relaxing, ready for the afternoon’s adventure.

Horseback riding was suggested by Captain Devan, which the family loved. They saddled up and rode along maquis-scented trails, cliffs, and secret beaches, and there was even a chance to swim with the horses.

After working up an appetite, the family returned for another standout dinner thanks to Chef Joshua, who sourced fresh, locally caught seafood.

Day 5: Corsica’s Iconic Cliffs

Next on the family’s agenda was a visit to the iconic Bonifacio. Breakfast was served while AWAY headed to one of Corsica’s most dramatic coastal scenes. They cruised underneath the limestone cliffs and entered one of the most spectacular natural harbors in the world.

Once docked, the teenagers zipped through the ancient streets on electric scooters and took to the coastal roads for further adventure. While Joshua’s dishes were second to none, the family decided to soak up the lively atmosphere and head ashore for dinner, where Captain Devan got them a last-minute reservation for dinner at Les Quatre Vents, located on the pier of the port.

Day 6: Maddalena Islands To Mexican Fiestas

Waking up for breakfast in Bonifacio, AWAY, then departed and headed on to cruise the Maddalena Islands, Sardinia’s best-kept secret. The day unfolded in this postcard-perfect location, complete with swimming, snorkeling, and canoeing through the protected marine park, which is full of calm, turquoise bays.

That evening, on anchor, the crew surprised the family with their favorite cuisine served with a difference - a Mexican fiesta theme night, complete with colorful decor, music, homemade tacos, and margaritas.

Day 7: Chic Shopping And Watersport Fun

No yacht charter to Sardinia is complete without a visit to the glamorous Porto Cervo, where designer boutiques line the streets. The family went ashore to explore and wander through the boutique stores.

AWAY then headed around to the famous bay of Cala di Volpe, where the toy box was once again opened up, and the teenagers had a competitive Seabob race. After the winners were firmly established, two of the teenagers headed out with Jessica for a wakeboarding lesson, while the others headed for some spa treatments at one of the island’s most iconic luxury hotels.

Dinner was another success, featuring a Sardinian-inspired menu with handmade pasta paired with regional wines, followed by a relaxed family board game night under the stars.

Day 8: A Perfect Family GetAWAY

On their final morning, the family took one last dip in the waters before breakfast, savoring the quiet calm of the Mediterranean. Saying goodbye to Captain Devan and the crew, the private transfer took them to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport for flights home. 

If you are looking for the ultimate family-friendly vacation this summer, a luxury yacht charter in Corsica and Sardinia delivers onboard AWAY. Contact IYC's expert consultants today to learn more about AWAY’s availability.