Corsica with the Family, Ages 28 to 81: One Cruise, Three Generations
Corsica is often described as an island of contrasts: rugged mountains, hidden coves, and hilltop villages overlooking the sea. But what truly leaves a lasting impression on travelers are the moments shared along the way, especially when three generations discover the island together for the first time.
In August 2025, Claudine, 57, set sail aboard La Belle des Océans with her father, Gilbert, 81, and her daughter, Marine, 28, on a cruise around Corsica. It had been more than ten years since they had last taken a holiday together, and a cruise proved to be the perfect way to reconnect while creating new memories as a family.
Why Corsica is even better explored together, from the sea
What made you decide to go on a cruise around Corsica together?
Claudine: Giving my father a real holiday with his daughter and granddaughter was the main reason. The cruise felt like an obvious choice: everything was included, there was nothing to worry about, and the special offer convinced us to take the plunge.
Gilbert: What appealed to me most was the opportunity to spend quality time with part of my family. Stepping away from everyday life, discovering new places together, and having meaningful conversations. At 81, you don’t turn down an invitation like that.
Marine: It had been well over ten years since we'd taken a family holiday with my grandfather. A cruise seemed like the perfect compromise: we could discover several destinations, almost like a road trip, but without the fatigue of driving from place to place. It felt only natural to invite him, and he accepted straight away. None of us had ever visited Corsica before, and for me, it had always been one of those dream destinations I wanted to experience.
How did you feel about not having to handle all the travel planning?
Claudine: Not having to worry about a thing was wonderful.
Gilbert: It's such a relief not having to plan the next day's activities. You can simply go with the flow, ask the cruise manager for advice if needed, and enjoy the moment. It’s incredibly relaxing.
Marine: It was very enjoyable, of course. The only thing we had to arrange was our transportation to and from the ship and even that could have been organized by CroisiEurope if we'd wanted.
Which stopover in Corsica was your favourite?
Claudine: Bonifacio, especially the boat excursion to the Lavezzi Islands. It was absolutely stunning, although I honestly enjoyed every stop along the way.
Gilbert: I really liked Ajaccio, but Bonifacio also left a strong impression on me, particularly because of the boat trip. It's difficult to choose between them!
Marine: For me, it was Ajaccio. The Sanguinaires Islands, the city tour, Napoleon's house... I loved the atmosphere. It felt both authentic and vibrant at the same time.
When did you first think to yourself, "I really feel at home here"?
Claudine: During meals on the ship's deck. Delicious food, the sea stretching out all around us... pure bliss.
Gilbert: Honestly, throughout the entire cruise. I felt at ease from the very beginning, and that feeling never left me. That’s rare enough to be worth mentioning.
Marine: The meals, in general. Whether in the restaurant or on deck, they were always wonderful moments to share together and reflect on the day. With the sunset as a backdrop, it felt magical. That's when we truly realized we were on holiday.
Is there a moment you shared together that particularly stands out?
Claudine: The boat excursion around the Lavezzi Islands and the wonderful evening at the Posto di Mazzi inn in Figari.
Gilbert: The dinner at the Corsican inn, without a doubt. The atmosphere, the music, and sharing that meal with my family made it a truly special moment. Those are the memories that stay with you.
Marine: I particularly enjoyed the traditional evening at a Corsican inn, accompanied by live guitar music and a local meal. It was an intimate and memorable experience that we all shared together. The setting was beautiful, the food was excellent, and the atmosphere completely transported us.
Is this an experience you would repeat?
Claudine: Absolutely! I’d barely returned home before I was already thinking about my next cruise.
Gilbert: Absolutely, without hesitation.
Marine: Without a doubt, yes!
What would you say to someone hesitating to take a cruise in Corsica?
Claudine: Don't hesitate for a second. It’s simply magnificent, and you won't regret it.
Gilbert: I'd tell them to go for it. The ship is small enough to feel welcoming and personal, the crew is attentive and genuinely caring, and the table-served meals are excellent. You feel looked after from beginning to end. And sharing all of that with your family makes the experience even more special.
Marine: I'd say take the plunge! I used to think cruises were mainly for older travellers, but that's really not the case. There's something for everyone and every travel style. That's exactly why it worked so well for our family. My grandfather could relax on board in the afternoon while we explored ashore, and we'd all meet up again for a drink before dinner. Everyone enjoyed the holiday at their own pace.
Thank you to Claudine, Gilbert, and Marine for sharing their story, which perfectly illustrates what has inspired CroisiEurope for more than 50 years: creating cruises that bring generations together while giving everyone the freedom to enjoy their holiday their own way.
What stood out from their experience:
- Discovering every side of Corsica without ever having to unpack and repack
- Authentic experiences included in the itinerary, such as an evening at a traditional Corsican inn
- Meals and drinks included on board
- The freedom to explore or relax at your own pace
- A holiday that genuinely suits every generation
In this spirit, CroisiEurope has developed dedicated family offers through the CroisiFamily program, where children under 16 travel free of charge, as well as multigenerational offers that provide special rates when three generations travel together.
Have a story to share?
We’d love to hear about your CroisiEurope experience and feature it in a future guest story.
Want to explore Corsica?
Discover the cruise Claudine, Gilbert, and Marine experienced, with departures available from this summer and in the seasons ahead.
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