Maddalena Archipelago – Costa Smeralda – Palau
Day 1: Arrival in Sardinia and Embarkation in Palau
Arrival in Sardinia, Olbia, and embarkation at 6:00 PM in Palau, a charming town north of Olbia. Here we anchor. During our champagne reception, guests are welcomed, the ship is introduced, and the planned itinerary is discussed. Afterwards, we enjoy the first dinner on board.
Day 2 – Lavezzi Islands and the Corsican Coast
Early in the morning, we lift anchor and sail through the famous Strait of Bonifacio to the French, Corsican side, first stopping at the Lavezzi Islands. Depending on interest and weather, we may take a walk on one of the islands, combined with a snorkeling excursion. We enjoy the white sandy beaches and the stunning views of the coasts of Corsica and Sardinia, as well as the surrounding island groups. In the afternoon, we sail to the Golfe de Sant Amanza at the southeastern tip of Corsica, where we relax in a beach bar with a refreshing local Pietra beer, a true Corsican specialty.
Day 3 – Along the East Coast to Porto Vecchio
In the morning, we might take a final beach walk or go for a swim. Afterwards, we sail along the east coast to Porto Vecchio, where we anchor in the eponymous bay. In the evening, we take a short walk ashore in the marina. The bay of Porto Vecchio is surrounded by cork oaks, pine trees, and numerous coves, making it a popular holiday destination.
Day 4 – Exploring Porto Vecchio and Snorkeling at the Iles Cerbicales
In the morning, we explore Porto Vecchio, situated on a 100-meter-high plateau. This lively small town features Genoese fortifications, colorful streets, and medieval squares. Afterwards, we may sail to the Iles Cerbicales, a small island group with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. We anchor here or in a nearby bay and enjoy dinner with views of the impressive Corsican mountain silhouettes.
Day 5 – Sailing through the Strait of Bonifacio and Arrival in Bonifacio
The Strait of Bonifacio almost always offers ideal wind conditions, allowing us to enjoy a few beautiful sailing legs between Corsica and Sardinia before heading to Bonifacio. In the evening, we anchor in Bonifacio’s fjord-like natural harbor and explore this unique and picturesque town.
Day 6 – Discovering Bonifacio and Returning to Sardinia
Bonifacio, perched high on a narrow limestone cliff, is Corsica’s most impressive city. This southernmost city on the island offers a unique setting on a 1.5 km long and 150 metres wide peninsula, with steep limestone walls sloping 60 metres to the sea. The town is definitely worth a visit. The walk from the lower town up the wide staircase is rewarded with stunning views of the steep chalk coast. The narrow streets and tall houses preserve the authentic atmosphere of the Genoese Middle Ages.
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We then leave Corsica and sail back to Sardinia. We moor in the beautiful bays of Porto Liscia or Porto Puddo, where, by evening, we relax in a trendy beach bar, admire kitesurfers or go for a beach walk.
Day 7 – Return to Palau and Disembarkation
In the morning, we enjoy the crystal-clear water one last time, directly from the ship. After lunch, we sail back to Palau at a relaxed pace, anchoring in the Bay of Mezzo Schiffo. Disembarkation is at 2:30 PM.
This route recommendation is a non-binding suggestion. The final route is determined by the captain, depending on wind and weather conditions. Changes and errors reserved. We often spend more time in the beautiful Maddalena Archipelago, along the coast of Sardinia, or in other idyllic bays, depending on current conditions.
