The great Corsican loop

Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht. The finest travel address on the waters of the world.

 “Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun”, according to a poem by Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail, bathed by the wind and sea spray, surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior design created by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a very distinctive personality. As if you were on your very own yacht, match your inner tempo to the boat’s subtle oscillations and savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip.

Aboard its flagship yacht, PONANT is redefining cruising and inviting you on an unforgettable 10-day trip around the Isle of Beauty. Departing from Nice, between wild paradises and heavenly beaches, stops at iconic places and private moments, the very essence of Corsica will reveal itself.

In Saint Florent and in Calvi, the craggy terrain of the Cap Corse and the Balagne region stretch out towards the sea. There, under the watchful eye of emblematic summits and of shores eroded by sea spray, the historic citadels and the villages clinging to the heady maquis invite you to immerse yourself in this still-unspoiled natural environment.

Slowly, the south of the island and its idyllic beaches will beckon you. Drawn by the spellbinding song of these sandy sirens, you will heed the call at full sail. On the way, the stunning spectacle of the archipelago formed by Pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires Islands indicates the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio. This long line of crests seems to extend the coast like a backbone and, for a moment, your vessel, and perhaps even time, seem brought to a standstill.

In the Gulf of Roccapina, on the beach of Erbaghju, the iconic Domaine de Murtoli emerges. Nestled between fragrant scrubland and turquoise sea, shielded from prying eyes, this unique hotel destination invites you to celebrate the Corsican way of life at its most vibrant and generous.

You will then set a course towards the southern tip of the Isle of Beauty, to uncover its dreamy scenery. With your senses awakened, you will then sail towards the incredible landscape offered by Bonifacio and the fortress with winding streets suspended on its ivory cliffs.

In the Gulf of Sant’Amanza, the azure Mediterranean and its fish-rich waters merge with the different varieties of plants and shrubs warmed by the sun, inviting you to refocus on what is truly important.

You will then leave Corsica's shores for an enchanting stop in Portoferraio, a small corner of paradise on the island of Elba, where Napoleon spent many days in exile. 

Carried by the wind, you will sail towards Portofino, your last port of call. Built in a natural harbour protected by a pine forest, it is a picturesque and lively port that has successfully retained its authenticity and traditions.

The activities, designed for you and with you, create possibilities for returning to what is essential, in a setting conducive to contemplation.

At your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature.

*The activities on offer will be confirmed on board by the captain according to the weather conditions, the itinerary and the cruise plan.