The Lavezzi Islands are a protected nature reserve of sculpted granite islets in the Bouches de Bonifacio strait, approximately 20 minutes by boat from Bonifacio marina. The archipelago forms part of the Réserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio, one of the largest marine protected areas in France, and is renowned for extraordinarily clear turquoise water, pink granite formations worn smooth by wind and sea, and a near-pristine Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. No private vessels may anchor within the reserve without a permit; day visitors arrive by authorised shuttle boats only. Reaching the Lavezzi Islands requires a hire car or taxi to Bonifacio first. From Ajaccio the drive is 130 km (1 hour 45 minutes) on the N196; from Porto-Vecchio just 28 km (30 minutes) on the N198. Boat operators including Vedettes Thalassa and Phocéa Croisières depart from Quai Banda del Ferro in Bonifacio marina, with return tickets at approximately €18–€25 per person and departures at 09:00 and 14:30. The crossing takes 20 minutes on open-deck vessels. On the islands, visitors can snorkel in the shallow inshore waters — visibility regularly exceeds 15 m — walk the marked trails across the granite plateau, and observe colonies of Yelkouan shearwaters nesting in rock crevices. Swimming is permitted in designated zones; areas near the ecological mooring zone are buoyed off. The 09:00 morning departure is recommended as the water is calmest and the light ideal for snorkelling visibility. The 14:30 departure suits those spending a morning in Bonifacio's Haute Ville. Both return in ample time before evening. Snorkelling equipment should be brought from Bonifacio or rented at dive shops in town, as no rental is available on the islands. There are no catering facilities, no shade structures, and no fresh water on the islands; all food, water, and sun protection must be carried for the duration of the visit. Collecting shells, approaching nesting areas, and leaving litter are prohibited and subject to fines enforced by reserve wardens.
How to get there
- Hire car to Bonifacio then boat
- Taxi from Figari airport to Bonifacio marina
Location
Bonifacio marina departure: Quai Banda del Ferro, 20169 Bonifacio
41.3310, 9.2550 View on map
Highlights
- Sculpted pink granite formations and sea-carved rock pools across the Lavezzi island plateau
- Snorkelling in the Réserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio with 15 m+ water visibility
- Yelkouan shearwater and other protected seabird nesting colonies on the granite crevices
- Views back to Bonifacio's white limestone cliffs and across the strait to the Sardinian coast
- One of France's largest marine protected areas — pristine Mediterranean ecosystem
Tips for visiting
- Carry all food, water, and sun protection — there are no facilities on the islands
- Rent or bring snorkelling gear from Bonifacio; no hire is available on the Lavezzi
- The 09:00 boat offers the clearest light and calmest water for snorkelling; advance booking is advisable in July–August
- Wear non-slip shoes for the granite surfaces, which can be slippery near the waterline
- Check the forecast before departure — afternoon winds in the strait can occasionally cause cancellations
When to visit
June and September offer calm seas, excellent snorkelling visibility, and fewer crowds than July–August. The 09:00 morning crossing gives the calmest water and best underwater light; avoid days when the Bonifacio strait is forecast for strong wind.
Frequently asked questions
How do visitors reach the Lavezzi Islands?
Authorised shuttle boats depart from Bonifacio marina at Quai Banda del Ferro. Operators include Vedettes Thalassa and Phocéa Croisières, with return fares of approximately €18–€25 per person. The crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Is there food or water available on the Lavezzi Islands?
No. The islands are a strict nature reserve with no cafés, restaurants, or fresh water points. Visitors must carry all supplies — food, water, and sun protection — for the full duration of their stay.
What marine life can be seen while snorkelling?
The waters around the Lavezzi hold sea bream, grouper, damselfish, sea urchins, and posidonia seagrass meadows. Loggerhead sea turtles occasionally pass through the strait. Visibility regularly exceeds 15 m in calm conditions.
Are the islands accessible in winter?
Scheduled shuttle services typically run from April to October. In winter the strait can be rough and regular services may suspend. Independent operators occasionally run trips on calm winter days; inquire at Bonifacio marina for current availability.
Can children visit the Lavezzi Islands?
Yes, children are welcome on the boat and on the islands. Life jackets are provided on the crossing. The rocky terrain requires sturdy footwear and supervision near the water's edge; pushchairs are not practical on the island paths.