Cavallo is one of the great kept secrets of a Mediterranean family charter: a private island in the Strait of Bonifacio with no public beach infrastructure, no day-tripper ferries and water that is simply exceptional. The island sits between the Lavezzi marine reserve and the Maddalena archipelago in a position that makes it an ideal central base for a week of exploration. Charter yachts anchor off the south and east coasts, where the water runs clear turquoise over white sand and granite, and children can snorkel directly from the yacht or tender to a deserted beach.
Family charter yachts suited to this area carry between eight and fourteen guests and are equipped for water activities: snorkelling kits, paddleboards, jet skis and inflatables as a minimum, with larger vessels adding seabobs and dedicated children’s programming. The calm anchorages on the Cavallo south coast allow swimming directly from the swim platform, which makes the morning routine for younger children simple and completely safe.
Weekly rates for family charter yachts in this area range from around 30,000 euros for a capable 35-metre motor yacht to 250,000 euros for a 55-metre vessel with a full beach club. Budget 30 percent additionally for the advance provisioning allowance, which covers food, fuel and water activities. The Strait of Bonifacio runs a French transit tax on charter yachts, and Italian waters on the Sardinia side add their own day dues.
July and August are peak season. June and early September offer the same anchorages, warmer water than the mainland Med, and a noticeably calmer Strait.
