We asked some of our longest-serving boaters a few questions to gauge their feelings and find out why they have remained loyal to the port of Saint-Florent all these years.
Here are their responses:
«Saint-Florent is the only port where I was able to moor.»
Since 1998, Jean-Paul Del Grande has been stopping at the port of Saint-Florent. A true haven of peace for this sailor from Vitrolles, who is fond of long stays in the gulf…
I'm going to
For many years, I have sailed extensively along the Corsican coast, and of all the ports where I have berthed, Saint-Florent is the only one where I have truly been able to settle. The family atmosphere and village feel that prevail there have a lot to do with it. I have many friends there now, and each time I visit, I find the same warm welcome and a quality of life that is second to none. This is also why I generally spend long periods there, including during the low season, between September and June.
What activities do you favour during your stays in Saint-Florent?
Boat trips with friends in the gulf. You don't need to go too far to find the most beautiful beaches; Saleccia and Lotu are nearby. Being in a gulf also offers particular comfort against the wind. The port is well sheltered. I particularly appreciate the tranquility.
How do you judge the reception you receive each year from the port staff?
Everything is being done to make our stay as pleasant as possible. It is very rare for boats to be stranded and unable to enter the port. On a daily basis, the dock staff are available and attentive if needed. Over time, some have become friends and the port a second home. Because this is also what makes the atmosphere and life of a port: human stories.
«Saint-Florent is a village with a soul.
Why do you choose to stay in the port of Saint-Florent every year?
After sailing around Corsica by boat, I found something different in Saint-Florent. The other ports often had the disadvantage of being in big cities. In Saint-Florent, the village has a soul. The shopkeepers are warm, and the atmosphere is very peaceful. You couldn't ask for more. All year round, I think about the day I'll come to Saint-Florent.
What are your favourite activities when you're in Saint-Florent?
The environment allows us to do anything. As soon as the weather is good – which is very often the case – we prefer days out at sea on the most beautiful beaches in the region, at Saleccia or Lotu. We even sometimes sleep at anchor in the evening. We mainly stay in the local area as we have everything at our disposal. I particularly enjoy cycling trips in the Agriate desert, a few kilometres from Saint-Florent. In recent years, I've also noticed a qualitative leap in many of the village's restaurants, where summer evenings are always pleasant.
What is your view on the reception of maritime pilots by the control tower?
The first few years I came to the port, over thirty years ago, the welcome was very much DIY (laughter). Since then, I've found a high quality of service. The online booking system allows us to organise our stay with regular updates and more comfort.
«We fell in love with Saint-Florent»
Why do you choose to stay in the port of Saint-Florent every year?
My family and I fell in love with Saint-Florent. In 2002, a friend advised me to spend a few days there. I found an exceptional welcome and setting. Since then, I've been looking forward to returning every summer.
What activities do you favour during your stays in Saint-Florent?
Aside from sea excursions in the gulf, the village's environment is very pleasant. The shops and restaurants are welcoming; local life is lively. I believe all the conditions are met for an enjoyable stay.
What is your opinion on how boaters are welcomed by port staff?
In sixteen years, I've never had the slightest difficulty. Every year, I spend nearly a month in the port, between the end of July and the end of August, and the service is always of high quality, both on the quays and within the harbour master's office. And the online booking system that was put in place in recent years has made things even easier.
«We left our hearts in Saint-Florent»
Since 1974, Vittorio and Nicoletta have been spending their summers at the marina. A tradition they've upheld for so many years, these Milanese lovers of Saint-Florent...
How did you discover Saint-Florent over forty years ago?
We had sailed around Corsica by boat with friends. On the way back, Saint-Florent was our last stop before ending our trip. We had spent a few days there and, since then, we had left our hearts there. The atmosphere of the village, the beaches, the contact with the locals had charmed us. Every year, we return there with great pleasure, sometimes even in winter.
Does the port environment allow you to meet all your needs?
The most beautiful beaches in the region are nearby and easily accessible. Sailing conditions are generally very good in the Gulf of Saint-Florent. This also allows you to get together with family and friends for a spot of fishing. But our activities are not limited to the sea. From Saint-Florent, we've also had the opportunity to explore the interior of Corsica and its villages.
What is your opinion on how boaters are welcomed by port staff?
Since 1974, we have never had any difficulty accessing the port. The welcome has always been very warm. Despite the changes within the teams over all these years, the staff have managed to maintain the same quality of welcome.