Corsica
Diving in Corsica, the Mediterranean's 'Isle of Beauty', is defined by its dramatic underwater landscapes and pristine protected waters. The coastline features spectacular granite formations, creating a maze of pinnacles, canyons, and swim-throughs teeming with life. Its most prized assets are the marine reserves, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Scandola Nature Reserve and the Lavezzi Islands. These protected areas boast incredibly clear water and an abundance of marine life, including notable wreck sites like the B-17 bomber near Calvi, which add a historical dimension to the island's diverse underwater portfolio.
Conditions are typically Mediterranean, with calm seas and excellent visibility, especially from May to October. Water temperatures are pleasant in summer, making it comfortable for all divers. You should visit Corsica not just for the diving, but for the unique combination of world-class underwater exploration and breathtaking topside scenery. The island offers a complete adventure, blending vibrant reefs and historic wrecks with rugged mountains, charming villages, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a premier European diving and holiday destination.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Corsica, France?
The Lavezzi Islands Marine Reserve, particularly the site known as 'Mérouville' (Grouper City), is arguably the most famous. Its popularity stems from the large, friendly resident dusky groupers that approach divers without fear. This protected area offers incredible biodiversity, dramatic granite boulders, and exceptionally clear water, making it a truly special and memorable dive experience in Corsica, France.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Corsica, France?
Well-known sites in Corsica, France include the wrecks near Calvi, like the B-17 Bomber, and the vibrant Lavezzi Islands. For a less crowded but equally stunning experience, explore the dive sites around Cap Corse on the northern tip of the island. This area features dramatic drop-offs, beautiful sea fans, and a wild, rugged underwater landscape with fewer dive boats, offering a more secluded adventure.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Corsica, France?
Water temperatures in Corsica, France vary seasonally. In the peak summer months of July and August, temperatures reach a warm 23-26°C (73-79°F). During the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October), expect cooler temperatures ranging from 17-22°C (63-72°F). Winter diving from November to April is for the hardy, with water temperatures dropping to around 13-15°C (55-59°F), requiring a drysuit or thick wetsuit.
When is the best time to visit Corsica, France?
The best time for diving in Corsica, France is from May to October. The peak months of July and August offer the warmest water and calmest seas, but also the largest crowds. For an optimal experience, consider visiting in June or September. During these months, you'll enjoy excellent visibility, warm water, pleasant surface temperatures, and fewer tourists, providing a great balance for a dive holiday.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Corsica, France?
Underwater visibility when diving in Corsica, France is generally excellent, especially during the main dive season from May to October. You can typically expect visibility ranging from 20 to 30 meters (65-100 feet). On calm, clear days, particularly in the protected marine reserves like Scandola or Lavezzi, visibility can even exceed 40 meters (130+ feet), revealing the stunning underwater topography and marine life in crystal clear detail.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Corsica, France?
Corsica, France is not known for large-scale migrations like whale sharks or manta rays. The primary attractions are the resident marine life and stunning topography. However, seasonal changes do affect marine behaviour. Spring sees an increase in juvenile fish and vibrant invertebrate life as waters warm. In late summer and early autumn, you may encounter larger schools of pelagic fish like barracuda and amberjack hunting smaller baitfish closer to the reefs.
What marine life can I expect to see in Corsica, France?
Divers in Corsica, France can expect rich Mediterranean marine life. Key sightings include large dusky groupers, moray and conger eels, schools of barracuda, and bream. The rocky reefs are home to octopus, scorpionfish, and spiny lobsters. The vibrant gorgonian sea fans host a variety of smaller creatures, including numerous species of colorful nudibranchs. Lucky divers might also spot eagle rays or dentex in the blue.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Corsica, France?
For peak summer diving in Corsica, France (July-August), a 5mm full wetsuit is ideal for most divers, although some may be comfortable in a 3mm. During the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October, a 7mm wetsuit is recommended as the water is cooler. For winter diving, a 7mm semi-dry suit or a drysuit is essential to stay warm in the colder water temperatures.
How do I get to Corsica, France?
To get to Corsica, France, you can fly into one of its four main airports: Ajaccio (AJA), Bastia (BIA), Calvi (CLY), or Figari (FSC), with frequent flights from mainland France and Europe. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from ports in France (like Marseille or Nice) or Italy (like Livorno or Genoa). Once on the island, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the different coastal regions and reaching dive centers.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Corsica, France?
Diving in Corsica, France is almost exclusively shore-based. There is a robust network of dive centers in coastal towns that offer daily boat trips to nearby sites. Liveaboards are not a common option here. Staying on shore is the recommended approach, as it allows you to access excellent diving while also enjoying Corsica's beautiful landscapes, culture, and cuisine after your dives. This provides a more well-rounded travel experience.