Corsica Linea

Who they are

Corsica Linea is the Marseille-based ferry operator that took over the public-service continuity obligation to Corsica following the collapse of SNCM in 2014. Where SNCM was a state-backed monopoly, Corsica Linea operates as a private company under a delegated public-service contract with the Collectivité de Corse, which subsidises year-round connections between Marseille and the island to keep fares and frequency accessible regardless of commercial demand.

The company was created specifically to ensure that Corsica — an island with no land link to the mainland — retains reliable, affordable ferry access throughout the year. This public-service mandate shapes the entire operation: year-round night sailings on the core routes, competitive base fares, and a commitment to service even in the quieter autumn and winter months when a purely commercial operator might cut back.

Network and routes

All of Corsica Linea's Corsican services depart from Marseille's Joliette terminal, France's largest commercial port and the natural gateway from southern France to the island. The company serves three Corsican ports: Bastia on the northeast coast, Ajaccio on the west, and L'Île-Rousse in the Balagne region of the northwest.

The schedule is built around overnight sailings — typically a late-evening departure from Marseille that arrives in Corsica the following morning. This pattern suits the majority of travellers, who avoid losing a day of holiday to the crossing and save a night's accommodation in the process. Cabins are available in several categories, from basic couchette-style bunks to private two-berth rooms with en-suite facilities.

On the Bastia and Ajaccio routes, Corsica Linea shares the public-service obligation with La Méridionale, with the two companies' schedules co-ordinated to maintain frequency without duplication.

Separately, Corsica Linea operates a significant Algerian network from Marseille, serving Algiers, Béjaïa, Skikda and Annaba. These routes run year-round and are central to the company's commercial viability, serving large passenger volumes from the Franco-Algerian community making return trips.

Fleet and on board

Corsica Linea operates large ro-pax ferries suited to the overnight run — vessels with extensive vehicle decks below and full passenger facilities above. Ships carry cars, campervans, coaches and motorcycles alongside several hundred passengers.

Passenger accommodation spans multiple cabin grades as well as open lounge seating for those who prefer not to book a cabin. There is a restaurant, a self-service cafeteria, a bar, and often a small shop on board. On overnight crossings, the quality of your cabin booking determines much of the experience; the standard couchette is fine for a single night, while private cabins are worth the upgrade for families or couples.

Booking and tips

Corsica Linea's summer season — roughly mid-June through September — is the busiest period and advance booking is essential, particularly if you are bringing a vehicle. Vehicle decks on the peak July and August sailings can sell out two to three months ahead.

Outside summer, the public-service mandate keeps sailings running with lower demand and far more availability. Shoulder-season crossings in May, early June and October offer the best combination of good weather and relaxed booking conditions.

The company's website allows cabin and vehicle add-ons at the time of booking. If you are combining a Corsica visit with time in Marseille, arriving the afternoon before departure and boarding in the early evening is a comfortable way to start the trip.