Calvi Cruise Ship Port Guide

How to get to the port, by air, train, road

Getting to Calvi port is simple, with plenty of ways to reach it. The local airport sits just 7km away, and you’ll find regular shuttles going between the two. If you fancy coming by train, there’s a narrow-gauge railway linking Calvi with Bastia and Ajaccio – the station’s a quick 400m walk from the cruise terminal. If you’re driving, just follow the T30 and T50 roads straight to the port area.

1. Grab a 15-minute taxi from Calvi Airport – it’ll cost you about £20-25
2. Jump on the airport shuttle bus for £8 one-way, running hourly
3. Take the lovely train ride from Bastia (4 hours) or Ajaccio (3.5 hours)
4. Drive along the good T30 coastal road – you can park for free at the port

Port Parking Options

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Getting parked at Calvi port is pretty straightforward and won’t break the bank. The main car park sits right next to the cruise terminal with spots for both short and long stays. You’ll pay between £5-8 per day, depending on when you visit.

If you need to park for longer, there’s a secure multi-storey on Avenue Christophe Colomb, just 300 metres from the port gates. It’s under cover, has security watching round the clock, and costs £15 daily. For those wanting to save money, try the free council car park by the Citadel – it’s roughly a 10-minute walk to the port. During busy months (June-September), it’s worth getting there early since spaces get snapped up fast, particularly when ships come in.

Local Transport & Transfers

Getting around from Calvi port is straightforward. The local transport network connects you to the town centre, nearby spots, and your cruise ship. All transport runs to match cruise ship times.

Here’s how to get about:

1. Regular shuttle buses run every 15 minutes between the port and Calvi’s historic centre – £2 each way
2. You’ll spot taxis at the rank by the terminal building – they use set prices for common routes
3. Want a private car? Book one online before you arrive for a direct trip in an air-conditioned vehicle
4. During summer, hop on the tourist train (petit train) from the port entrance for a lovely trip around Calvi’s main sights

If you fancy stretching your legs, you can walk to the town centre in about 10 minutes – it’s really close.

Port Terminal Facilities

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The Calvi cruise terminal has all the facilities you’ll need for a comfortable visit. The building keeps you cool with air conditioning and comes with the basics – toilets, tourist info desks and somewhere to sit down. You can connect to Wi-Fi for free across the whole terminal, and there’s a currency exchange open when ships come in.

Want to buy something? Pop into the duty-free shop for local Corsican goods, keepsakes and travel bits and bobs. If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a café with light snacks and drinks. You’ll also spot an ATM, public phones and a spot where tour companies set up shop. The terminal is wheelchair-friendly, and staff are on hand to help anyone who needs mobility support. The port workers speak several languages and can answer your questions about Calvi and what to see in town.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

Before your cruise starts in Calvi, you can spend a brilliant day in this lovely Corsican port town. The old citadel, beautiful beaches, and lively local culture are all within walking distance of the cruise terminal.

1. Wander through the 13th-century Citadelle de Calvi, where you can see amazing views of the harbour and learn why locals say Christopher Columbus was born here.
2. Take it easy at Plage de Calvi, a curved beach with clear waters and mountains in the background.
3. Browse Rue Clemenceau for proper Corsican keepsakes, local food and handmade crafts.
4. Grab some fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant along Quai Landry, and watch the boats come and go from the harbour.

Walks near the port

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From the cruise port, you can take lovely walks that’ll get you right to the best bits of Calvi. The most popular path goes straight to the historic Citadel – just follow the waterfront where you’ll see local fishing boats gently swaying in the harbour. It’s about a 15-minute stroll with brilliant views across the bay.

If you fancy some beach time, wander west from the port along the coastal path to Calvi Beach, a gorgeous 4-mile stretch of white sand. It’s a nice 20-minute walk, and you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops to pop into along the way. Another good route winds through the narrow streets of the lower town, passing the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and the lively Place Paoli. The Quai Landry is worth a look too – it’s packed with restaurants and brilliant for watching the world go by.

Dining and Shopping

When you get off your cruise ship, Calvi’s nicest places to eat and shop are mainly in two spots: the lively Quai Landry and the lovely old town streets. Along the waterfront, you’ll find seafood restaurants with lovely harbour views, while the medieval citadel‘s winding lanes are home to proper Corsican restaurants serving local favourites like wild boar and dishes made with chestnuts.

1. Pop into the citadel’s artisan shops for traditional Corsican knives, olive wood items, and local herbs
2. Try U Fornu bakery for Corsican pastries and fiadone, a local cheesecake
3. Browse Quai Landry boutiques for French fashion, beachwear, and local wines
4. Head to Place Paoli’s weekly market (Wednesday/Friday mornings) for local produce, cheeses, and handmade goods

Accommodation near the port

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Staying by Calvi’s port makes life easy for cruise passengers who want to spend more time in town. You’ll spot quite a few lovely boutique hotels and guesthouses within a 5-10 minute stroll from the cruise terminal – many with brilliant views of the harbour and citadel.

The Hotel Saint Christophe and Hotel le Magnolia are right by the port, with their mix of old Corsican style and modern comforts. If you fancy splashing out, the posh 5-star La Villa sits up high with smashing views over the bay. For those watching their pennies, the Hotel Belvedere and Hotel Revellata have nice rooms at decent prices.

You might want to think about getting a flat through local letting agents or holiday rental websites – there are loads to choose from in the old buildings around the port area.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

Getting around Calvi port is a breeze for first-timers, thanks to its small size. The historic citadel and town centre are right next to where ships come in, making it dead simple to start exploring. You’ll spot plenty of French and English signs along the way, and you can pop into the tourist office – it’s just a five-minute walk from the dock.

1. Show up at least 30 minutes before your ship leaves – security queues can get quite long in busy months
2. Grab an offline map of Calvi (your phone signal might go a bit wonky near the citadel)
3. Bring some euros in cash – several local shops don’t take cards
4. Sort out your shore trips well before you arrive if you’re travelling in summer, as they tend to book up fast

Customs & Immigration at The Port

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The port’s customs and immigration setup at Calvi is straightforward and easy to manage. Since Calvi is in France, you’ll need your passport and any required Schengen visas. Immigration happens right on the pier, with officers doing quick passport checks.

If you’re coming from outside the EU, you’ll get a landing card to fill out whilst on your ship before you arrive. Even in busy summer months, the whole thing usually takes 15-20 minutes at most. Cruise passengers don’t need to make a separate customs declaration unless they’re bringing in items above EU duty-free limits. Remember to keep your ship’s card with you – you’ll need it to get back on board. If you’re heading out on your own, take note of when your ship leaves and when immigration closes.

Local Currency & Payment Options

Calvi, being a French port town, uses the euro (€). While most places take cards, it’s a good idea to keep some cash handy, especially for smaller buys and the local markets. You’ll spot cash machines dotted around the town centre, mainly near the port and shopping streets.

Worth knowing:

1. You’ll get better exchange rates using local banks and ATMs rather than the currency shops at the port
2. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere, but American Express isn’t as common
3. Many shops want you to spend at least €10-15 if you’re paying by card
4. Keep some small notes and coins for taxis, market shopping, and little cafés

Give your bank a heads-up before you travel to France – this helps avoid any awkward card blocks whilst you’re in Corsica.

Emergency Contacts

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Essential numbers to keep safe in and around Calvi:

• European Emergency Number: 112 (rings on any phone)
• Police (Gendarmerie): 17
• Fire Department (Pompiers): 18
• Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15
• Calvi Port Authority: +33 4 95 65 10 36
• Calvi Hospital: +33 4 95 65 11 22
• Calvi Police Station: +33 4 95 34 88 60
• Tourist Office: +33 4 95 65 16 67

Most emergency staff can speak basic English, but knowing a few French phrases will help. If you’re on a cruise, your ship’s emergency details are still valid while docked. Remember to carry your cruise card – it’s got all the important contact info for your ship.

Port of Bonifacio for a different Mediterranean cruise destination.

History of The Port

Dating back to the 13th century, Calvi’s port started life as a key Genoese stronghold on Corsica’s northwestern coast. Look up at the citadel above the harbour, and you’ll spot bits of its military heritage still standing proud. The port changed from a military base into a busy trading spot in the 18th century as ships went back and forth between Corsica and mainland France.

A few big moments shaped the port’s story:

1. Admiral Nelson tried and failed to take the port in 1794, losing his right eye in the process
2. They made the port bigger in 1848 to fit larger trading ships
3. After taking a beating in World War II, they rebuilt it in 1945
4. In the 1990s, it became the modern cruise port we see today

These days, you’ll see fancy yachts and massive cruise ships bobbing where military vessels once ruled the waves – quite a change from its wartime past to its current life as a holiday hotspot.

Environmental Initiatives at The Port

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The port of Calvi isn’t just about tourism these days. Since 2018, they’ve brought in some brilliant green projects to help the environment. Ships can now plug straight into the local power supply when they dock instead of keeping their engines running – it’s made a massive difference to the air quality around the harbour.

Look up at the terminal buildings and you’ll spot solar panels everywhere. They generate around 30% of all the power the port needs. The people running things have got quite strict about rubbish too – all cruise ships must sort their recycling and use special collection spots. If you fancy learning about local sea life, pop into the visitor centre where they’ll tell you all about their work to protect the Mediterranean’s marine wildlife.

Accessibility Information for Disabled Passengers

The port has loads of helpful features to make it easier for disabled passengers to get around. You’ll find wheelchair ramps, lifts and wide walkways throughout the terminal building. Our staff know how to help passengers with different disabilities and are happy to lend a hand when you need it.

1. Special disabled parking spots sit within 30 metres of the terminal entrance, with flat paths leading to the building
2. Every loo has accessible cubicles fitted with grab rails and emergency alarm buttons
3. Fast-track boarding lanes make getting on and off the ship straightforward for wheelchair users
4. You can borrow wheelchairs and mobility scooters for free if you let us know 24 hours before you arrive

For extra help, just ring your cruise line or the port authority before you set off.

Cruise Insurance and Medical Facilities at The Port

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Getting the right insurance and having medical help nearby makes for a safer trip. At the Calvi port terminal, you’ll find a basic medical centre with first-aid gear and healthcare staff on duty when cruise ships dock. You’ll need proper travel insurance that includes medical emergencies and evacuation cover – it’s a port requirement.

If you need more serious medical care, Calvi Hospital is just 2km from the port. Since medical treatment in Corsica can be quite dear for non-EU visitors, it’s best to sort out comprehensive cruise insurance before you set sail. Your policy should cover things like cancelled trips, medical problems and lost luggage. Keep your insurance papers and emergency phone numbers handy throughout your journey.

Families: Child-Friendly Services and Activities

Calvi’s cruise port is great for families with kids. There’s a nice play space next to the terminal with proper equipment for different ages and shaded spots where mums and dads can sit. You’ll find family loos with baby changing tables and little steps to help smaller children reach the sinks.

1. The port’s ice cream shop makes local Corsican flavours and does special smaller portions for little ones
2. A fun mini train runs hourly from the port, taking families on a lovely 30-minute trip around Calvi’s best bits
3. The port’s neighbouring beach is shallow and sheltered, making it brilliant for children to splash about safely
4. The port team gives out free activity packs filled with colouring books and puzzles about Corsican culture

With all these family-friendly bits and bobs, your kids won’t get bored during your time at the port.

Local Cultural Highlights and Events

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The port area in Calvi is full of genuine Corsican culture. You can catch traditional Corsican polyphonic singing at the Place Paoli, where locals meet up every week in summer evenings. The Calvi Jazz Festival in June is a must-see, bringing top musicians to perform at spots around the port.

In summer, the night markets along Quai Landry come alive with local makers selling handmade items, honey and cured meats. Pop into the 13th-century Citadel for historical shows, which usually happen on Friday nights from July to September. The port’s wine caves hold regular tasting sessions where you can sample Calvi’s best local wines. If you fancy proper Corsican food, try to catch the October Food Festival – it’s brilliant for local chestnuts, olive oil and fresh seafood dishes.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

You can cruise from the port all year, but the best time is between May and October when the weather’s most reliable. The Mediterranean gives you lovely warm, sunny days – brilliant for wandering around the citadel or lounging on the beaches.

1. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with temperatures hitting 85°F (29°C)
2. May, June and September are really nice, with pleasant temperatures and not as many tourists about
3. Spring cruises (March-April) mean you’ll see gorgeous wildflowers and local festivals, though some trips might not be running
4. Winter cruises (November-February) are cheaper and you’ll see more of the genuine local life, but it’s cooler with some rainy days

If you want the sweet spot between good weather, decent prices and manageable crowds, try booking in the shoulder season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Ship Size That Can Dock at Calvi Port?

The port at Calvi can take ships that are up to 200 metres long. Bigger boats, like massive cruise ships, can’t come right into the harbour because it’s not deep enough – they have to drop anchor out at sea instead.

Are There Any Private Yacht Mooring Facilities Available at the Port?

You can moor both luxury yachts and fishing boats at Port de Plaisance’s private berths. It’s quite popular in summer, so best to ring ahead and book your spot early to avoid disappointment.

Can Cruise Passengers Store Luggage at the Port Before Check-In?

No dedicated luggage lockers at the port, I’m afraid. If you need somewhere to keep your bags before boarding time, best to ring your cruise line or find storage spots in Calvi town centre.

What Is the Typical Water Temperature in Calvi’s Harbor Throughout Seasons?

The harbour in Calvi gets warmest during summer, reaching about 24°C. In spring and autumn, the water’s fairly nice at 18°C, whilst winter sees it drop to around 13°C. You can comfortably swim there from May all the way through to October.

Are There Fishing Restrictions or Permits Required Near the Cruise Port?

You need to get a fishing licence from the local council if you want to fish near the port. Keep in mind that you can’t fish too close to cruise ships – there’s a no-fishing area around them. Also, you must stay at least 100 metres away from where ships come in and out of the harbour.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Propriano Cruise Ship Port Guide.