Quick Answer
The best way to get from Figari-Sud Corse Airport (FSC) to the Lavezzi Islands is a two-step journey: first by road to Bonifacio port (the closest and most connected), then by pre-booked ferry or tour boat. The fastest total journey takes ~1.5 hours (taxi + speedboat), while the most economical costs ~â¬40-â¬50 one-way (bus + standard ferry). There are no direct boats from the airport as it's located inland.
The Journey Overview: Airport to Archipelago
Reaching the pristine Lavezzi Islands from Figari-Sud Corse Airport is a classic Corsican adventure involving land and sea. Figari Airport (FSC) is situated in southern Corsica, approximately 20-25 km inland from the nearest major ports. The Lavezzi Islands are a protected archipelago located south of Bonifacio, accessible only by boat. Therefore, your transfer will always consist of two distinct legs:
- Land Leg (Airport to Port): Travel from Figari Airport to a departure port, primarily Bonifacio (closest, ~45 min drive) or Porto-Vecchio (further, ~60 min drive).
- Sea Leg (Port to Islands): Take a scheduled public ferry, a private speedboat tour, or a chartered vessel from the port to the Lavezzi Islands.
The key to a smooth trip is synchronizing these two legs, as boat departures are limited and seasonal. Below, we dissect each option in detail.
Step 1: Road Transfer from Figari Airport to Port
Your first decision is how to cover the 35-50 km from the airport to the coast.
Taxi or Private Transfer (Fastest & Most Convenient)
Ideal for travelers prioritizing time, families with luggage, or small groups.
- Travel Time: 45 minutes to Bonifacio; 60 minutes to Porto-Vecchio.
- Cost: Fixed-rate taxis from Figari Airport. Expect â¬80-â¬120 to Bonifacio and â¬100-â¬150 to Porto-Vecchio (2024 estimates). Prices are per vehicle, not per person.
- Booking: Official taxis are available at the airport rank. For guaranteed service, especially during peak hours or for groups >4, pre-book a private transfer online.
- Tip: If your boat departs from Bonifacio's Port de Plaisance (leisure port), specify this to the driver, as it's different from the commercial port.
Rental Car (Maximum Flexibility)
The most popular choice for travelers planning to explore Southern Corsica.
- Agency Location: Major rental companies (Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt) have desks inside Figari Airport terminal.
- Drive Details: The drive to Bonifacio is straightforward via the T40 road. It offers scenic views but has winding sections. Road signage is clear.
- Parking: This is the main challenge. Bonifacio port parking fills rapidly in summer. Research and pre-book a long-term parking space near the marina. Costs range from â¬15-â¬30 per day.
- Best For: Travelers combining the island visit with a longer Corsican road trip.
Public Bus (Most Budget-Friendly)
A viable option for solo travelers or pairs on a tight budget, but requires careful timing.
- Service Provider: CTC (Compagnie des Transports de la Corse) operates bus Line #10 linking Figari Airport to Porto-Vecchio.
- Schedule & Frequency: Buses are infrequent (often 3-5 times daily) and schedules align loosely with flight arrivals. The journey to Porto-Vecchio takes about 1 hour.
- Cost: Approximately â¬8 one-way.
- Limitation: There is no direct public bus from Figari Airport to Bonifacio. You would need to bus to Porto-Vecchio and then change to another bus/taxi to reach Bonifacio, complicating and lengthening the journey significantly.
- Advice: Check the latest CTC timetable the day before your travel and have a backup plan (like a taxi number) if the bus is full or delayed.
Step 2: Boat Options from Port to Lavezzi Islands
Once at the port, you have several sea-going choices. Bonifacio is the primary and most recommended departure point due to proximity and frequency of service.
Scheduled Public Ferries (From Bonifacio)
These are the workhorses for reaching Lavezzi, operated by companies like Saremar and Moby Lines (seasonal).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Journey Time | 30 - 50 minutes |
| Typical Cost (Round Trip) | â¬25 - â¬40 per person |
| Frequency (Summer) | 2-4 departures daily, morning to early afternoon. |
| Booking | Mandatory online booking in advance. Tickets are rarely available on the spot in peak season. |
| Experience | Larger, stable vessels. Basic amenities. They often allow 3-5 hours on the islands. |
| Departure Point | Bonifacio's Gare Maritime (commercial ferry terminal). |
Private Speedboat & Taxi Boat Tours (From Bonifacio/Porto-Vecchio)
Offered by numerous local operators on the marinas. This is often the only option for afternoon arrivals.
- Journey Time: 20 - 35 minutes by speedboat.
- Cost: Significantly higher. Ranges from â¬50-â¬90 per person for a group tour to â¬300-â¬600 for a private charter (boat for up to 8-12 people).
- Advantages: Flexible departure times, faster crossing, often combined with tours of nearby caves (like the Grotte du Sdragonato) and swimming stops.
- Booking: Essential. Research and book online via platforms like GetYourGuide or directly with operators like Bonifacio Taxi Boat.
Chartered Sailboat or Yacht
The premium, all-day experience for special occasions or small groups.
You can charter a boat with a skipper from marinas in Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio, or even from Figari's nearby Port de Propriano. This allows for a customized day including Lavezzi, swimming, and lunch on board. Daily rates start from â¬1,200+.
Combined Transfers & Guided Tours
For ultimate convenience, several tour operators offer packages that include both the land transfer from Figari Airport and the boat trip.
- How it Works: You are met at the airport arrivals by a driver/guide, transferred directly to Bonifacio port, and join a pre-arranged boat tour. After the islands, you are returned to the airport or a hotel.
- Providers: Companies like Corsica Aventure or Evasion Nature specialize in such private excursions.
- Price: Expect to pay a premium, from â¬200-â¬400 per person for a full-day private experience.
- Best For: Cruise ship passengers on a day stop, or visitors with a single day in Corsica dedicated to Lavezzi.
Cost & Time Comparison: Figari Airport to Lavezzi Islands
| Option Combination | Approx. Total Travel Time (One-Way) | Approx. Cost Per Person (One-Way)* | Best For | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi + Speedboat Tour | 1.5 - 2 hours | â¬100 - â¬150+ | Time-sensitive travelers, small groups | High |
| Rental Car + Scheduled Ferry | 2 - 2.5 hours | â¬40 - â¬70 (inc. car share & parking) | Families, independent explorers | Very High |
| Bus (to Porto-Vecchio) + Local Taxi + Ferry | 3 - 3.5 hours | â¬33 - â¬50 | Solo travelers, budget backpackers | Low |
| Private Transfer + Private Boat Charter | 1.5 hours (door-to-island) | â¬200 - â¬500+ | Luxury, special occasions, large groups | Very High |
*Costs are estimates for one adult in peak season. Ferry costs are round-trip; table shows a proportional one-way estimate for comparison.
Essential Traveler Tips & Advice
Booking Strategy is Everything
Your entire trip hinges on the boat ticket. Book your ferry or tour online, months in advance for July/August travel. Only after securing your boat departure should you finalize your flight and land transfer plans to ensure perfect synchronization.
Luggage: The Major Practical Hurdle
You cannot take suitcases to the Lavezzi Islands. There are no storage facilities on the boats or the islands.
- Solution A (Rental Car): Leave all luggage in the locked trunk of your parked rental car.
- Solution B (Taxi/Transfer): Ask the taxi driver or transfer company if they can store your bags for the day (some private services offer this).
- Solution C (Advanced Planning): Use a luggage forwarding service from the airport directly to your hotel on the island of Corsica. Services like Luggage Free or local taxi firms can arrange this.
Navigate the Two Ports of Bonifacio
Confirm your exact departure point:
- Gare Maritime (Commercial Port): For large scheduled ferries (Saremar, Moby).
- Port de Plaisance (Marina/Leisure Port): For almost all private taxi boats, speedboat tours, and charters.
Respect the Nature Reserve
The Lavezzi Islands are part of a strict marine park. Do not remove any stones, plants, or shells. Smoking and lighting fires are prohibited. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile flora and fauna. According to the Parc Naturel Marin, anchoring is restricted to specific zones to preserve the sea grass (Posidonia oceanica) meadows.
FAQs: Getting from Figari Airport to Lavezzi Islands
Is there a direct boat from Figari Airport to Lavezzi Islands?
No, there is no direct boat service from Figari Airport (FSC) to the Lavezzi Islands. The airport is inland. You must first travel by road to a coastal port like Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio (a 45-60 minute drive), then take a scheduled ferry or private boat tour to the islands.
What is the fastest way to reach Lavezzi Islands from Figari Airport?
The fastest combination is a pre-booked taxi or private transfer from Figari Airport directly to Bonifacio port (approx. 45 min), connecting with a speedboat or fast ferry to Lavezzi Islands (approx. 30-45 min). Total door-to-island time can be under 1.5 hours with perfect connections.
What is the cheapest way to get to Lavezzi Islands from the airport?
The most budget-friendly option is taking the CTC bus from Figari Airport to Porto-Vecchio (approx. â¬8, 1 hour), then a local bus/taxi to the marina, and finally a standard ferry to Lavezzi (approx. â¬25-â¬35 round trip). Total one-way cost can be around â¬33-â¬45.
Can I use a rental car to get to the ferry port?
Yes, renting a car at Figari Airport is a highly flexible and popular option. It allows you to drive to Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio marinas at your own pace (45-60 min drive). Ensure your rental agreement permits driving on coastal roads and book long-term parking near the port in advance during summer.
Are boat trips to Lavezzi Islands suitable for young children or seniors?
Yes, but with considerations. Larger, stable ferries from Bonifacio are generally suitable for all ages. Smaller speedboats may have age/height restrictions and can be bumpy. The islands themselves have rocky terrain. It's best to choose a family-oriented tour operator, check restrictions, and bring sun protection, water, and sturdy shoes.
Do I need to book Lavezzi Islands boat tickets in advance?
Absolutely, especially from June to September. Ferries and tours to the protected Lavezzi Islands have limited daily capacity. Booking weeks or even months in advance is strongly recommended to secure your spot. Last-minute bookings at the port are highly unreliable during peak season.
What is the best time of day to travel from Figari Airport to Lavezzi?
Aim for an early morning arrival at Figari Airport (before 10 AM) to connect with morning boat departures (typically 9 AM - 11 AM) from Bonifacio. This maximizes your time on the islands. Afternoon flights often mean missing same-day public ferries, leaving only private tour options.
Is it possible to stay overnight on Lavezzi Islands?
No, overnight stays are strictly prohibited on the Lavezzi Islands. They are a protected nature reserve within the Parc Naturel Marin du Cap Corse et de l'Agriate. All visitors must depart on the return ferry on the same day. Accommodation is available in Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio.