Corsica Ferries – Sardinia Ferries is a prominent Franco-Italian ferry company that has been facilitating maritime travel across the Western Mediterranean since its inception in 1968. With a fleet of 14 vessels, the company offers extensive routes connecting mainland France and Italy to the islands of Corsica, Sardinia, Elba, and the Balearic Islands. Transporting over 3.5 million passengers annually, Corsica Ferries stands as a market leader in ferry services to Corsica and Sardinia.
1. Historical Overview
Founded by Pascal Lota in 1968 under the name Corsica Line, the company began with a single ferry, the Corsica Express, operating between Corsica and Italy. Over the years, it expanded its services, adopting the name Corsica Ferries in 1973 and acquiring Sardinia Ferries in 1981. The company introduced routes from Nice in 1996 and from Toulon in 2000, eventually becoming the leading ferry operator between the mainland and Corsica by 2002. Following Lota’s passing in 2016, the company was taken over by key executives, with Pierre Mattei becoming the majority shareholder.
2. Route Network
Corsica Ferries operates a comprehensive network of routes connecting various ports:
- France to Corsica: Departures from Nice and Toulon to destinations like Bastia, Ajaccio, L’Île-Rousse, and Porto-Vecchio.
- Italy to Corsica: Services from Livorno, Savona, and Piombino to Bastia.
- Italy to Sardinia: Routes from Livorno to Golfo Aranci.
- France to the Balearic Islands: Connections from Toulon to Alcúdia (Mallorca) and Ciutadella.
- Corsica to Elba: Seasonal services between Bastia and Portoferraio.
These routes offer flexibility for travelers, with options for both daytime and overnight crossings.
3. Fleet Details
The company’s fleet comprises 14 vessels, including the Mega Express series, designed for both passenger comfort and vehicle transport. Key features of the fleet include
- Passenger Capacity: Ranging from 1,756 to 2,500 passengers.
- Vehicle Capacity: Accommodating between 450 to 665 vehicles.
- Speed: Operating speeds between 21.5 to 30.5 knots.
The ships are equipped with amenities such as restaurants, bars, lounges, and cabins to ensure a comfortable journey.
4. Onboard Experience
Passengers can expect a range of services onboard:
- Dining: Multiple restaurants and bars offering a variety of cuisines.
- Accommodation: Options for cabins, including suites and family rooms, as well as reclining seats for shorter journeys.
- Entertainment: Children’s play areas, lounges, and sometimes live music or entertainment.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops offering a selection of goods.
While many passengers praise the cleanliness and comfort of the ships, some reviews suggest bringing personal snacks due to onboard food prices.
5. Booking and Travel Tips
- Reservations: It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Vehicle Transport: Corsica Ferries accommodates cars, motorcycles, and camper vans.
- Pets: Pets are allowed onboard, but specific guidelines and fees apply.
- Accessibility: Facilities are available for passengers with reduced mobility, but it’s recommended to inform the company during booking.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for added protection.
6. Environmental and Social Responsibility
Corsica Ferries has faced scrutiny over environmental practices, notably a 2005 incident involving illegal discharge at sea. The company has since taken steps to improve its environmental footprint, including modernizing its fleet for better fuel efficiency. However, it has also been criticized for operating under flags of convenience and employing a workforce primarily from outside France, raising concerns about labor practices.
7. Customer Feedback
Customer reviews are mixed:
- Positive Aspects: Cleanliness, punctuality, and friendly staff are commonly praised.
- Areas for Improvement: Some passengers report issues with last-minute cancellations, high onboard prices, and customer service challenges.
It’s recommended to check recent reviews and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Conclusion
Corsica Ferries offers a comprehensive network of ferry services across the Western Mediterranean, providing travelers with various options to explore Corsica, Sardinia, and beyond. While the company has faced challenges, its extensive routes and commitment to service make it a viable choice for maritime travel in the region.
