The port of Calvi enjoys a busy summer season, when an influx of holidaymakers drift onto the island’s shores. Many visitors arrive in Corsica on ferries from the south of France and Italy, and at the height of the peak season the population of the island swells to 40,000. The natural beauty of the island combined with modern facilities and a vibrant night life add to the island’s appeal.
Two companies provide connections between Calvi and the French city of Nice, and there is also a daily sailing to Savona in Italy. Ferries between Nice and Calvi are operated by SNCM Navires Grandes Vitess and Corsica Ferries. The sailing between the port of Calvi and Savona is also run by Corsica Ferries.
The view of Calvi from the ferry port is a splendid sight, with its ochre buildings, huge bastions and looming mountains. The actual ferry terminal is limited to basic services such as vending machines and a snack bar, however an array of amenities lie within footsteps of the Calvi port.
Ferries sailing between Calvi and Nice take 2 hours, 45 minutes, and both companies make the crossing up to six times per week. The port in Calvi is very close to the town centre and a string of cafes overlook the busy marina. Around 750,000 passengers make the crossing from Nice each year, most of them sailing during the busy summer season.
The Corsica Ferries Company is comprised of eight vessels, four devoted to express passenger travel and the rest provide slower vehicle transportation. Around 500 passengers and 150 vehicles can be accommodated on the Corsica Ferries ship, while SNCM vessels can carry 550 passengers and 130 vehicles.
Calvi is a charming destination, with the ideal balance of culture, natural beauty and a lively night scene. Corsica is situated 130kms off the coast of France and 80kms from Italy, and is well connected to both countries by ferries and flights. The island has a relatively good road system and also a rail network.
