Early maritime activities
Frequent since antiquity, The Gulf of Saint-Florent was home in the Middle Ages to the port of the bishopric of Nebbiu, which bore the name Sancto Fiorentio.
The birth of Saint-Florent
Located near the natural shelters of Fornali and Mortella, the site charmed the Genoese, who decided to found a fortified city there. In 1440, they named it Saint-Florent, marking the beginning of the town's development around its port.
A recognised strategic position
During his time there in 1793, Napoleon Bonaparte highlighted the strategic importance of Saint-Florent. In his memoirs, he would express his regret at not being able to make it a major capital and stronghold.
The first major works
From 1844, significant works were undertaken to develop the harbour and better protect the fishing boats. At this time, fishing was the main economic activity for the local population.
The arrival of the steamer Fraissinet
The Fraissinet company's steamship begins serving Saint-Florent every fortnight, ensuring a regular link between the mainland and Balagne. This service will continue until 1938.
Commercial ambitions
Between the two World Wars, several expansion projects were studied to develop the port's commercial activities. However, these projects were not realised at that time.
The birth of the marina
The 1960s marked a turning point with the creation of the marina. On 4 June 1965, the first harbour fees were officially set, opening a new chapter in the maritime history of Saint-Florent.
Receiving the Blue Flag
In 2016, the port of Saint-Florent received the Blue Flag label for the first time. This distinction rewards actions undertaken for several years in favour of environmental protection and sustainable development.
The first port of Corsica
Over the decades, the port has continued to develop, reaching nearly a thousand berths. It has thus become the leading port in Corsica in terms of number of moorings and one of the island's main marinas.