Bonifacio Yacht Charter Guide

At the head of a deep fjord, Bonifacio is one of the most spectacular natural harbours in the world. Sailing past striated limestone cliffs, surrounded by hills peppered with bright yellow maquis flowers, you will be greeted by the magnificent sight of the medieval citadel rising up behind terracotta-roofed houses. In true Corsican style, old meets new seamlessly in this town. Within the ancient walls, the restored town center is now a buzzing collection of world-class restaurants and boutique hotels. A private yacht charter from Bonifacio is the ideal way to visit Corsica, giving you the option to explore secluded coves and hidden beaches of the coastline, many of which are not accessible by road. Boat hire lends the flexibility to seek out favourite spots and stay for an hour, an afternoon, or anchor for the night.

Key Cruising Areas:
Bonifacio is an excellent port to berth, with some attractive anchorages in beautiful coves and nearby islets. When the winds are low, sail up to Porto Vecchio or across the Strait to Sardinia.

Don’t Miss:
Take advantage of the onboard equipment and get the kayaks out for an afternoon paddle to explore the many sea stacks and famous caves of the area. Stop at the Cave of Lovers where skylights make the water shimmer and heart-shaped holes in the rock create really special scenes.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining:
Bonifacio and the neighbouring city of Porto Vecchio are hot spots for fine cuisine. For an incredible experience sail North and pay a visit to the Casadelmar hotel. Walkthrough the stunning landscaping and minimalist lobby to reach the restaurant, where panoramic views and the 2 Michelin-starred creations of chef Davide Bisetto guarantee the best dining in France outside of Paris. The squid in blue ink with vitelotte puree is a delight of colour and flavour.

Local Culture:
Throughout the summer, the whole island is host to many music, art, and cultural festivals. During September Bonifacio is particularly lively – hosting windsurf championships, and a week-long festival dedicated to tango, this is a great time to let your hair down with the locals.

Best Beach: 
Palombaggio has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in Europe. Gin-clear shallow water, 2km of soft sand leading to pink granite headlands with stunning rock formations and a backdrop of umbrella pines about the Corsican mountains mean this is a must-see.

IYC recommends:
The nearby islets of Îles Lavezzi are a beautiful place to spend a night on your yacht – when the day boats leave you will have the glittering water all to yourself. Swim to the beach for a refreshing morning dip, then wander through the scenic cemetery to another beach on the other side.