Beaked whales and deep-sea cetaceans: Corsican-Sardinian sailing
In summary
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Sports
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Duration15 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationVar / Hyères
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AgeFrom 14 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions232.62 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
15 days sailing, encountering deep-sea cetaceans
From the Var coast to Corsica and northern Sardinia, embark on a 15-day scientific expedition by sailboat , above the canyons and deep waters of the Mediterranean.
In search of great divers
Our goal: to explore the habitats of the elusive Cuvier's beaked whale , the sperm whale , Risso's dolphins, and pilot whales. Here, encounters are earned: patience, observation, and respect for the animals guide our journey.
Participate in field research
Much more than an observation cruise, this adventure invites you to collect data in the field : watch shifts, observation sheets, photo-identification, hydrophone listening, and measurements of the marine environment, depending on the conditions. You learn to observe the sea like a naturalist, without any prior knowledge.
Experience the sailing adventure to the fullest
Join a small crew of 6 to 8 travelers and participate in maneuvers, navigation watches, life on board, and offshore crossings. Between offshore explorations and anchorages in the Corsican and Sardinian landscapes, each day is different.
A true expedition, not a fixed itinerary: weather and safety determine the route, and no encounter with cetaceans is guaranteed.
The highlights
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Take part in a genuine scientific, naturalist expedition that respects cetaceans.
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Experience offshore sailing, between crossings, watches and maneuvers.
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Explore the wild waters of Corsica and Sardinia, at the pace of a crewed adventure.
Photos
Sport
Level
Sailing
The expert's opinion
A high-seas and scientific adventure, accessible to motivated beginners!
No sailing experience or scientific knowledge is necessary. This 15-day expedition between Provence, Corsica, and Sardinia is for curious travelers ready to participate in a group adventure.
A crew to accompany you
Alongside an experienced skipper and a naturalist scientist, you will discover maneuvers, navigation watches, cetacean observation, photo-identification and hydrophone listening. Everyone learns and participates at their own pace.
Accessible does not mean easy!
We sometimes sail far from the coast, for long periods or several days, including at night. The weather and sea conditions are variable; sleep may be fragmented, and seasickness is possible. Good mobility, sufficient balance on a moving boat, and adequate physical fitness are necessary.
Life on board is part of the experience
Cabins and common areas are shared. Meals, storage, shifts and daily tasks require mutual support, flexibility and teamwork.
The key is to love nature, be patient and accept that at sea, both the route and encounters with cetaceans remain unpredictable.
In figures
Sailing
- Average duration/day: 12h
Management
French
English
Stéphanie – Naturalist scientist, passionate about the oceans and their inhabitants
Passionate about the marine world and biodiversity, Stéphanie is the founder of the agency, specializing in scientific and naturalist expeditions.
Holding a master's degree in coastal management and a research master's degree in biodiversity, she has dedicated her career to the study of ecosystems and the understanding of living things.
Convinced that knowledge is essential to the protection of the oceans, she conceived expeditions allowing everyone to discover the work of scientists in the field, while contributing to the collection of data on cetaceans.
On board, she introduces you to species identification, behavior observation, photo-identification, underwater acoustics and scientific monitoring methods.
A passionate educator, she loves to share her knowledge, awaken curiosity and convey a respectful approach to wildlife.
His philosophy: not simply to observe cetaceans, but to learn to understand them in order to better protect them.
Valérie – Professional skipper, sailing instructor and navigator
The sea and sailing have been a part of Valérie's life since childhood. After her first sailing trips with her family, she discovered regattas in 420s, then in Moth Europes, before embarking on numerous adventures on cruising and racing sailboats.
Valérie, an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certified professional skipper, sailing instructor, and catamaran owner coach, has completed several Atlantic crossings and participated in the 2023 Ocean Globe Race, the legendary round-the-world race, as part of the L'Esprit d'Équipe crew.
Her extensive experience at sea is complemented by a genuine passion for sharing her knowledge. Calm, attentive, and a natural teacher, she enjoys introducing beginners to sailing as much as guiding experienced sailors. With her by their side, everyone can learn maneuvers, participate in navigation, and gain confidence at their own pace.
During our expedition, Valérie is in charge of sailing the boat and ensuring the safety of the crew, adapting the navigation to the weather and sea conditions.
With her, sailing becomes much more than a means of transport: a human adventure and a privileged and respectful way to explore the marine world.
Program
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Boarding and first voyages: become a crew!
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Welcome aboard for 15 days of maritime and scientific adventure!
We meet at the Port of Hyères to meet our skipper, our scientific naturalist guide, and the other participants. After settling into our cabins, we explore the sailboat, learn about the safety procedures, and understand how life on board is organized.
Time for the first sailing trips! These two days are dedicated to getting acquainted with the boat: learning to steer, participating in maneuvers, understanding how the boat works and getting used to being part of the crew.
Our scientific guide presents the species sought and the study protocols: observation of cetaceans, photo-identification, acoustic listening and environmental surveys.
The first coastal voyages allow us to begin naturalist watchkeeping before gradually moving further out to sea.
The goal: to gain confidence on board and prepare together for the offshore adventure!
Days 1 to 2 -
Offshore crossing: heading for Corsica!
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We are gradually leaving the coast to experience a real adventure on the high seas!
Weather permitting, we set sail for Corsica for a long sailing voyage, with its navigation watches and naturalist watches.
As we move away from the continent, we pass from the waters of the continental shelf to the deep Mediterranean. This transition between different habitats provides a prime opportunity to search for pelagic cetaceans.
Everyone actively participates in the expedition: navigation, maneuvers, observation of the horizon, scientific surveys and, depending on the conditions, listening with the hydrophone.
The sailing continues into the night. You will then discover the unique atmosphere of watches under the stars, far from the lights of the coast.
An immersive experience where sailing, science and adventure become one!
Days 3 to 4 -
Corsican canyons: on the trail of the great divers
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Time for scientific exploration of the deep sea off Corsica!
We explore the deep areas bordering Corsica, in search of the cetaceans that frequent these spectacular underwater habitats.
Our target species? Long-finned pilot whales, sperm whales, Risso's dolphins and mysterious Cuvier's beaked whales , capable of diving to impressive depths.
These animals are difficult to detect: patience, concentration, and observation are essential. Every breath seen, every fin photographed, or every acoustic signal recorded can provide valuable information.
You participate in scientific protocols: observation shifts, species identification, photography, environmental surveys and behavioral data collection.
Depending on the weather, we alternate between offshore prospecting and sailing towards sheltered areas.
Here, no encounter is guaranteed: it's a true field search, with its surprises and uncertainties!
Days 5 to 6 -
Heading to Sardinia: exploring the territories of beaked whales
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Our exploration gradually leads us to the north of Sardinia, to the heart of the Corsican-Sardinian canyons!
Depending on navigation conditions, we explore the deep waters of the Bonifacio sector, from northwestern Sardinia towards Asinara, or the canyons of northeastern Sardinia.
These habitats are areas of interest for the research of great divers, including Cuvier's beaked whales and sperm whales .
We continue visual surveillance, photo-identification and acoustic listening when conditions allow.
The expedition also offers us opportunities to discover the Sardinian landscapes. Anchorages allow us to rest, discover coastal habitats, and explore the seabed with masks and snorkels.
On board, we take the time to review the collected data and discuss our observations.
Three days combining scientific exploration, navigation and the discovery of a wild Mediterranean!
Days 7 to 9 -
Archipelagos and deep waters: to the rhythm of the sea
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Our expedition continues between the Corsican-Sardinian archipelagos and the depths of the Mediterranean.
These days are dedicated to exploring accessible areas based on the weather and previous observations.
We alternate sailing, scientific prospecting offshore and possible stopovers at anchor.
The goal is not to follow a prescribed tourist route, but to dedicate time to the areas most interesting for the study of cetaceans , while maintaining a consistent observation effort.
The quieter moments allow us to deepen our knowledge: analyzing photographs, discovering photo-identification methods, studying acoustic data, or observing plankton under a microscope.
When conditions permit, we also enjoy the coastal landscapes and ecosystems.
That's the real value of a naturalist expedition: learning to understand the sea, as much as exploring it.
Days 10 to 11 -
The great return journey: final explorations on the high seas
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h per day
- Accommodation Sailing cruise ship
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The time is approaching to set sail again for the Provençal coast!
The exact date of our departure for the mainland depends on the weather window. The safety of the crew and sailing conditions remain the top priority.
Depending on our progress, we take advantage of the last deep areas to continue the search for cetaceans before starting the long return crossing.
Navigation watches and naturalist watches continue , day and night. Each participant puts into practice the knowledge acquired during the expedition, both in sailing and in scientific observation.
This crossing is also an opportunity to share our discoveries, review the photographs and begin to take stock of the data collected.
Perhaps we will have the chance to experience one last unexpected encounter with the inhabitants of the open sea!
Three days to fully enjoy offshore sailing and the spirit of crew.
Days 12 to 14 -
Back to port: an expedition comes to an end, but discoveries continue!
- Activity Sailing
- Duration of the activity 12h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After 15 days of adventure, our scientific expedition is coming to an end!
We arrive at the port of Hyères and unload our luggage from the sailboat. We return our vessel by 10:00 AM.
Now is the time to look back on the highlights of the expedition: the voyages, the landscapes explored, the observations made, but also the hoped-for encounters that did not take place.
We are taking stock of the scientific results of our trip: species observed, usable photographs, environmental surveys and limitations of our prospecting effort.
The data collected will then be sorted, verified and archived, in order to contribute to a better understanding of Mediterranean cetaceans.
You will leave with new skills, memories of offshore sailing and above all the satisfaction of having participated in a genuine scientific endeavor at sea!
Day 15
Note
A vibrant itinerary, dictated by the sea and scientific research
This program is indicative. Weather conditions, sea state, safety requirements and observation opportunities determine the prospecting areas, crossings and anchorages.
Some steps may be brought forward, extended, modified, or replaced. The goal is to prioritize safe navigation and a coherent scientific effort, rather than following a rigid geographical route.
Cetaceans move freely in their natural environment: their presence and observation can never be guaranteed.
Accommodation
A modern, spacious sailboat, perfectly equipped for adventure!
Built in 2023, Folie Douce is a Bénéteau Oceanis 46.1, a cruising sailboat of nearly 14.60 meters, combining comfort, space and nautical performance.
On board, you will enjoy numerous amenities:
- 5 cabins offering 10 berths, plus 2 berths in the convertible saloon.
- 3 bathrooms with showers and electric toilets.
- A large, bright and welcoming square.
- A fully equipped kitchen with a 130-litre refrigerator, 3-burner hob and oven.
- A spacious cockpit with outdoor table, bimini and protective sprayhood.
- A cockpit refrigerator and additional storage space.
- A heater for cooler nights.
- An audio system with indoor and outdoor speakers.
The boat also has modern navigation equipment: GPS plotter, autopilot, VHF with AIS receiver, bow thruster and electric winch.
With its large living spaces and equipment adapted for offshore navigation, Folie Douce offers an ideal setting to share a scientific adventure at sea, without sacrificing essential comfort.
Access
Join the sailboat
Boarding takes place at a port in the Var region. You can reach the area by train, then use public transport or a taxi to get to the port. If you are coming by car, remember to check parking options nearby.
Transportation to the sailboat and transfers are not included in the trip. The final port of call and boarding instructions will be provided before departure. We recommend waiting for confirmation of your trip before booking non-refundable transportation.
How to get to the port of Hyères?
Our expedition departs from the port of Saint-Pierre in Hyères, in the Var region, easily accessible by train, car or public transport.
Go to the starting point
By train: Hyères SNCF train station is the closest to the port, approximately 5 km away. It is served by TER regional trains from Toulon. For travelers coming from further afield, connections are available via Toulon or Marseille-Saint-Charles train stations.
From the train station to the port: you can take bus line 67 of the Mistral network, which serves Hyères train station and the port (stop "Port La Gavine"). A taxi is also a convenient option with your luggage. Remember to check bus schedules at www.reseaumistral.com .
Practical information:
The exact meeting point on the port and the coordinates of the sailboat will be communicated to you before departure.
Allow sufficient time in your travel schedule to reach the crew without stress.
Transfers between the train station and the port are not included in the price of the stay.
Join our expedition by plane
Two airports provide easy access to the port of Saint-Pierre in Hyères, the starting point of our scientific sailing expedition.
✈️ Toulon-Hyères Airport (TLN) – The closest
Located less than 2 km from the port, it's the most convenient option!
- By bus: line 63 of the Mistral network directly connects the airport to the port of Saint-Pierre.
- By taxi: it only takes a few minutes to reach the port.
- On foot: approximately 20 to 25 minutes walk, for travelers with light luggage.
✈️ Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) – Marignane
Located approximately 110 km from Hyères, this airport offers a wider choice of national and international connections.
Recommended route by public transport:
- Take the A1 shuttle between the airport and Marseille-Saint-Charles train station.
- Take a train towards Hyères, either direct or with a connection in Toulon.
- From Hyères train station, reach the port of Saint-Pierre by bus (line 67, stop “Port La Gavine”) or by taxi.
Our advice:
Allow sufficient time between landing and boarding time, especially in case of flight delays.
The exact meeting point will be communicated to you before departure.
Airfare and transfers to the sailboat are not included in the price of the stay.
Arriving by car and parking during the stay
Our expedition departs from the port of Saint-Pierre, in Hyères (83400), in the Var.
Recommended route:
- From Marseille or Aix-en-Provence: take the A50 towards Toulon, then the A570 towards Hyères.
- From Nice or Cannes: take the A8, then the A57 and the A570 towards Hyères.
- Once in Hyères, follow the signs for “Airport / Port / Presqu’île de Giens”, then “Port Saint-Pierre”.
Where to park your car for the 8 days?
We recommend the free Arromanches car park , located at the roundabout of the aircraft carrier Arromanches, near the port of Saint-Pierre.
This large car park with over 600 spaces is open year-round and allows parking for more than 48 hours. The port is about a 10-minute walk away. A free shuttle also operates during the summer season.
Please note: some other free parking areas in the port are limited to 48 hours and are therefore not suitable for a week-long stay.
We advise you to arrive well in advance, particularly in July and August, to find a place and reach your sailboat at your leisure.
The exact boarding location will be communicated to you before departure.
Price details
The price includes
- 15 days / 14 nights aboard a habitable sailboat, in a shared double or twin cabin.
- Full board from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 8.
- Bed linen and towels are provided.
- The accompaniment by Stéphanie, a scientific naturalist guide: identification of cetaceans, observation of behaviours, photo-identification, underwater acoustics and discovery of scientific methods.
- Nautical instruction by Valérie, an experienced professional skipper.
- Introduction to sailing and participation in maneuvers according to each person's desires and abilities.
- The provision of scientific equipment for the planned activities.
- All the operating costs of the sailboat: fuel, port fees, moorings and onboard expenses.
- Individual safety equipment provided on board.
- Any entry fees to natural areas visited as part of the program.
The price does not include
- Return transport to the port of embarkation and any necessary transfers.
- Personal expenses, souvenir purchases and tips.
- Drinks and beverages not included in meals.
- Optional or mandatory travel insurance, including cancellation and repatriation assistance coverage, according to the applicable conditions.
- Treatments for seasickness and any personal medical expenses.
- Additional activities, visits or services not included in the program.
- Any service not expressly mentioned in the "Price includes" section.
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Everything you need to navigate and discover scientific research at sea!
No specific nautical or scientific equipment needs to be purchased to participate in this expedition.
For navigation:
You will embark on board Folie Douce, an Oceanis 46.1 sailboat of nearly 14 meters, equipped for offshore sailing.
Navigation and safety equipment is provided: life jackets, personal safety equipment, navigation instruments, GPS, VHF and equipment necessary for maneuvers.
Valérie, our professional skipper, will accompany you to discover sailing and participate in maneuvers if you wish.
For scientific activities:
Wild Seas Explorer provides its research and observation equipment:
- Hydrophone and recorder to discover the underwater acoustic universe.
- Photo-identification equipment for cetaceans.
- Plankton net and portable microscope.
- Secchi disk for measuring water transparency.
- Environmental parameter measurement probes.
- GPS, data sheets and scientific data collection tools.
The activities are supervised by your naturalist guide and adapted to the conditions at sea.
Bed linen and towels are also provided on board.
Equipment to bring
A few essential accessories to fully enjoy your adventure!
For your comfort and observation activities, we recommend you bring:
- A soft travel bag is essential for easier storage in cabins (rigid suitcases will have to stay on the dock).
- Sunglasses, ideally polarized, with a retaining cord.
- A high protection SPF 50+ sunscreen, suitable for water sports and certified organic.
- A reusable water bottle.
- A small headlamp, ideally with a red light for night navigation.
- A beach or bathing towel.
- A small toiletry bag with biodegradable hygiene products when possible.
- Your personal medications and, if necessary, a seasickness treatment chosen with a healthcare professional.
- An external battery for your electronic devices.
For nature and photography enthusiasts:
- Binoculars for observing wildlife from a distance.
- Camera with telephoto lens for photographing cetaceans and seabirds.
- Personal notebook.
These latter pieces of equipment are optional: no personal scientific knowledge or equipment is required.
A mask and snorkel can also be useful for swimming and coastal exploration, when conditions permit.
Travel light: the essentials of your adventure are already on board!
Clothing to bring
Pack comfortable clothing suitable for life at sea and varying weather conditions.
In June, the Mediterranean generally offers summer temperatures, but the wind, sea spray and night sailing can bring a feeling of coolness, even in the middle of summer!
We recommend you bring:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing: shorts, t-shirts, comfortable trousers.
- Long-sleeved, covering clothing to protect you from the sun.
- A fleece or warm sweater for evenings and night sailing.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket, ideally a lightweight sailing jacket.
- Waterproof trousers for sailing in areas exposed to sea spray.
- Closed, non-slip shoes with non-marking soles for navigation.
- Sandals or light shoes for stopovers.
- A hat or cap with a strap to prevent it from blowing away.
- A swimsuit for possible swimming at anchor.
- A reasonable quantity of underwear and spare clothing.
Our advice: opt for several layers of clothing that are easy to add or remove. At sea, even under the Mediterranean sun, the wind can quickly cool the air.
No need to pack a full wardrobe: simplicity is part of the pleasure of living on board!
The Stéphanie team
Our local expert, Stéphanie, designs scientific and naturalist trips dedicated to the marine environment. With a background in ecological research, she offers an immersive experience combining respectful wildlife observation and citizen science. From Norway to Guadeloupe, each small-group trip combines sailing and ecosystem exploration to raise travelers' awareness of ocean conservation.
