Youth cruise (18-23 years): whale watching with WWF between the Tuscan Archipelago and Northern Corsica

Italy:

Tuscany

Duration:

6 days - 7 nights

Max number of passengers:

8 people

Available:

July - August

Suitable for travellers:

18 - 23 years

Boarding from:

Rosignano Marittimo

What's included

Cancellation policy

Organised by:

WWF Travel

Member since 2020 -

Organisation

Italian

English

This experience, in a nutshell

Experience a unique adventure in the heart of the Mediterranean with our whale watching cruise, which will take you to discover extraordinary marine ecosystems, between the Tuscan coasts, the island of Capraia and the wild North Corsica. An experience of navigation, scientific research and natural beauty that will remain indelible.

Our main study area is located northwest of Corsica's "Finger", a unique area characterized by deep underwater escarpments very close to the coast and strong upwelling currents, making these waters ideal for marine megafauna. Fin whales and sperm whales reign here, accompanied by other extraordinary "deep divers" such as the Cuvier's beaked whale.

The crossing from Tuscany to Corsica takes between 8 and 10 hours of navigation. If the weather conditions permit, it is our favorite destination, with the possibility of making a pitstop at the island of Capraia, an authentic jewel of the Tyrrhenian Sea with crystal clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. The crossing is not carried out at night, to ensure safety and maximum comfort for the participants. If the weather and sea conditions do not allow us to reach Corsica, the cruise will focus on the observation and monitoring of the stable populations of bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the waters between the Island of Elba and Pianosa.

This area, thanks to its biodiversity and tranquility, represents the ideal habitat for these coastal dolphins, offering a rare opportunity for study. You will be involved in scientific research activities, using non-invasive techniques such as photo-identification and georeferencing, to collect valuable data on the behavior and dynamics of this iconic species.

Both study areas are located within the boundaries of the Pelagos Sanctuary, an area specially designated for the protection of Mediterranean cetaceans.

Each day will be a variable experience, adapted to the weather and sea conditions and the movements of marine fauna. In a serene and informal atmosphere, you will share with the crew not only the research activities but also the small daily tasks on board, such as cooking or tidying up, maintaining the spirit of sharing that makes these cruises unique.

During the trip, you will be involved in observation and scientific research activities, using non-invasive methods to identify and study cetaceans. With the help of WWF whale watching guides, you will be able to deepen your knowledge of monitoring techniques, behavioral sampling and photo-identification, completely immersing yourself in the magic of marine nature.

Join us to discover the wild beauty of the Mediterranean, between science, nature and pure wonder!

HIGHLIGHTS

Unique scientific experience: Direct participation in monitoring and research activities together with WWF guides, using non-invasive methods to observe and protect cetaceans in the Mediterranean, according to the rigorous standards of the High Quality Whale Watching certification, promoted by ACCOBAMBS and CIMA Foundation. These labels certify that all activities follow international guidelines, promoting species conservation and educating participants on the importance of protecting biodiversity.

Contact with wild nature: A journey in harmony with the marine environment, away from crowded places, to experience the Mediterranean in its authenticity and contribute to its conservation.

Sustainable sailing: The choice of sailboat aims to minimize the use of the engine (unless the marine weather conditions do not allow it), thus limiting emissions and noise pollution, for a more sustainable environmental impact. This choice represents a concrete commitment to responsible tourism that respects the marine environment.

Authentic and shared atmosphere: Spartan and collaborative life on board, with all participants involved in daily activities, for a travel experience that combines adventure, conviviality and a spirit of adaptation.

Education and active involvement: The experience is not just passive observation: participants are actively involved in on-board activities and scientific research, developing skills in nature photography, monitoring and sampling. This involvement allows us to create a deep connection with the marine environment, promoting greater awareness regarding biodiversity conservation.

Navigation and life on board: A sailing cruise means having the sea within reach of a dive, even as soon as you wake up, it means having an aperitif always watching sunset, dining under the stars and enjoying moments of pure fun and relaxation.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY OF THE EXPERIENCE

Easy, suitable for everyone.

OUR SKIPPER

On board this experience there will be Nicola D. (click on the name to read the reviews it has received from travelers).

Nicola is a profound connoisseur of the area, he always sails between Tuscany and northern Corsica. He is described by his travel companions as an experienced skipper, friendly, patient and very willing to teach the rudiments of sailing to those who request it.

THE TYPICAL DAY:

The days on board are designed to offer an authentic and flexible experience, in harmony with the weather and sea conditions, research needs and crew preferences.

Usually, the morning begins with a relaxing breakfast and if the conditions are particularly favorable for monitoring, you can decide to set sail immediately, postponing the moments of relaxation to another time of the day.

Navigation focuses on exploring the open sea in search of cetaceans, following routes studied by the WWF guide and employing specific monitoring techniques for the study of marine megafauna. Lunch does not have a fixed location and adapts to the needs of the day: it can be eaten at sea, adrift, or while sailing, continuing observations. If the morning of monitoring was satisfactory, lunch could take place in a protected bay, giving a moment of relaxation and diving if the season allows it.

The afternoon continues with further navigation and monitoring activities, to observe cetaceans or deepen the knowledge of marine ecosystems. Alternatively, you can anticipate the mooring in the roadstead to indulge in other baths or snorkeling sessions, always adapting the program to the weather conditions and research objectives.

The evenings are dedicated to moments of conviviality, with aperitifs at sunset in the roadstead or while sailing, and the possibility of mooring in the roadstead to experience the magical atmosphere of the night sea under the stars, or in port, depending on the weather, the preferences of the skipper and the crew. In some cases, you can go ashore for a walk or to end the day with a toast with friends.

Flexibility is at the heart of this experience: the program is constantly adapting to ensure safety, respect marine ecosystems and provide unforgettable moments of discovery and connection with nature.

Flexibility is at the heart of this experience: the program is constantly adapting to ensure safety, respect marine ecosystems and provide unforgettable moments of discovery and connection with nature.

HOW LIKELY IS IT TO SEE CETACEANS?

As is obvious, sightings cannot be guaranteed, although we can proudly say that sightings occurred on 100% of summer cruises in 2025. We remind you that research cruises with a WWF guide on board are not just whale watching cruises, but are experiences that offer a 360° immersion in the world of cetaceans, even with short theoretical lessons, as well as data collection and monitoring. Participating in a WWF research cruise means actively helping research and contributing to the well-being of the planet.

Starting from

€999

€949

Per person

What's included

Cancellation policy

Starting from

€949

6 days - 7 nights

Italy: 6 days - 7 nights

Tuscany

What's included

Cancellation policy

Starting from

€999

€949

21+

Show all

Boat & Classes of Service

Dehler Varianta 44 - 2016

Type

Sailboat

Length

13.3 m.

Toilets

Cabins

Show all

Our itinerary

Our trip starts here:

Rosignano Marittimo.

Check-in: 6:00 PM

Our trip ends here:

Rosignano Marittimo.

Check-out: 8:00 AM

Our itinerary

The adventure begins in Rosignano, where the meeting is set for Saturday starting at 19:00. After the preparation of the galley and a convivial dinner in the port, there will be time to get to know each other and prepare for the trip. On Sunday morning, we will set sail early and, based on the weather and sea conditions, we will decide which of the two routes to follow.

Option 1: North Corsica and Capraia

If weather permitting, we'll head the bow towards Northern Corsica, with a possible (but not guaranteed) pitstop at the island of Capraia along the way. We will sail to Macinaggio and Cap Corse, exploring the study area in northwest Corsica. This area, characterized by underwater escarpments and upwelling currents, is the ideal habitat for fin whales, sperm whales and other deep-sea cetaceans.

Corsica's crystal clear waters and wild landscapes will offer an unforgettable experience: white beaches, picturesque villages and unspoiled nature to explore between sighting sessions. The crossing will take about 8-10 hours of navigation, which will be enriched by moments of scientific observation and relaxation.

Option 2: Elba Island and Pianosa

If the weather conditions do not allow you to reach Corsica, the cruise will focus on observing and monitoring the stable populations of bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the waters between the Island of Elba and Pianosa. This area, thanks to its biodiversity and tranquility, represents the ideal habitat for these coastal dolphins, offering a rare opportunity for study. You will be involved in scientific research activities, using non-invasive techniques such as photo-identification and georeferencing, to collect valuable data on the behavior and dynamics of this iconic species.

Whatever the itinerary chosen, the journey will end with the return to Rosignano on Friday, with disembarkation scheduled for the following Saturday by 9:00 am.

Please note: Itineraries are flexible and are decided at the time of departure to ensure the safety and quality of the experience. Whether it's the waters of Corsica or the Ligurian landscapes, each route promises unforgettable moments of discovery and wonder. The itinerary may vary according to weather and sea conditions and is decided by the skipper in collaboration with the WWF guide. Each route promises unforgettable moments of discovery and wonder: decisions regarding the route are made to the satisfaction of the entire crew and to ensure their safety.

The itinerary may be subject to changes due to weather conditions and/or technical or logistical reasons, in order to ensure safety and a pleasant sailing experience for all participants.

Our itinerary

Option 1: North Corsica and Capraia

Option 2: Elba Island and Pianosa

Whatever the itinerary chosen, the journey will end with the return to Rosignano on Friday, with disembarkation scheduled for the following Saturday by 9:00 am.

The itinerary may be subject to changes due to weather conditions and/or technical or logistical reasons, in order to ensure safety and a pleasant sailing experience for all participants.

What's included in the price

Boat equipment and facilities

Final cleaning

Tender and outboard

Onboard staff

Skipper

Taxes, fees and moorings

WWF membership

Insurances

Medical and luggage insurance

Other services

Trainer

What you'll have to pay during the experience

Below are the additional expenses you will incur during the experience.

Common Fund

€150 - €200 Per person

The amount of the common fund may vary according to the final number of participants. Skipper, WWF guide and any sailor are exempt from the common fund.

Galley

Food for the skipper

Food for the crew

Alcoholic drinks

Mooring fees

Embarkation and disembarkation mooring fees

Fuel (boat/tender)

What's NOT included in the price

Below are the services that are not included in the price of the experience, including any available optional services that you may pay directly to the organiser (we advise you to inform the organiser prior to departure in case you wish to purchase such services and arrange the payment terms directly with him).

Excluded

Bedding kit

Towels kit

Meals/drinks consumed ashore

Frequent questions

The organiser reviews

Organised by:

WWF Travel

Member since 2020 -

Organisation

Italian

English

4.7/5

out of

222

reviews

Skipper

Boat

Destination

Long weekend of whale watching with WWF guide on an 18-meter schooner

10/2/2025

Marco C.

Italy

Unforgettable experience aboard the Schooner. An essential and shared life on board.Thanks to Captain Francesco, his crew and WWF guide Ilaria, a serene and pleasant atmosphere was established with all guests from the beginning.Browsing great places.Educational experience on the marine environment with a focus on cetaceans and environmental impact.As a first experience we particularly appreciated the pace of navigation, the life on board and the company.

Long weekend of whale watching with a WWF guide between the Amalfi Coast, Ischia and Capri

09/28/2025

Valerie D.

France

Very nice experience, the boat is comfortable, the whole group was kind. Every day Ilaria made us aware of the life and environment of cetaceans, and their preservation. It was instructive. Rocco is a captain like no other! Very professional, you feel totally safe. Observation, anchoring in the port, swimming... A very good time out of time! Thank you to Rocco, Ilaria, and the other participants for this moment and their kindnesses.