Mouillage

Rade de Santa Maria

3.9FranceCorsica

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Shelter: SE, S, SW, W
Seabed: sand, algae
Anchoring: Allowed

Bay on the north-east tip of Cap Corse, in northern Corsica, just south of the Îles Finocchiarola.

Beach
Seagrass

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Approach from the N or E. Anchor on clear sand in 5 to 7 m to respect the surrounding posidonia, and do not push into the shallow head of the bay except with a shallow draught. Rocks and shoals lie south of the tower and towards the Finocchiarola islands, so give them a wide berth. Sheltered from SE, S, SW and W, exposed from N and NE, and it rolls at night from ferry wash and an easterly swell that often runs heavier than forecast. A current can set across the bay and lie a boat side-on to the wind. Macinaggio lies 1.8 NM to the S as a full-service refuge.

Practical

Forain anchorage without services. Macinaggio marina, 1.8 NM south, offers water, diesel, electricity and around 585 berths. The Sentier des Douaniers runs along the shore from Macinaggio to Centuri.

Ashore

The Iles Finocchiarola are a classified nature reserve and seabird sanctuary, with landing banned from March to August. The Sentier des Douaniers coastal path passes the bay and links the Tour de Santa Maria, a 16th century Genoese watchtower visible from the anchorage, to the Tour d'Agnello further north. A small deconsecrated chapel of Santa Maria stands by the tower, reached on foot from the beach.