Discover the Lérins Islands and the Bay of Cannes by Private Boat

Planning a trip along the French Riviera? If you’re after a way to see some of the most beautiful spots without the crowds and with a touch of luxury, this private boat tour exploring the Lérins Islands offers a fantastic option. While we haven’t done this specific trip ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

Two aspects really stand out: the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of these islands in a relaxed, intimate setting. The boat itself, a spacious Beneteau Flyer 7.7 SunDeck, looks perfect for a small group, making the experience feel both exclusive and friendly.

One possible consideration? The price is on the higher side at about $685 for up to five people, but that includes your private boat, personalized itinerary, and multiple stops at prime spots. If you’re someone who values comfort, flexibility, and a scenic escape, it’s likely worth every penny. This experience suits travelers who appreciate a tailored, relaxed day on the water, especially those who love water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable skipper.
• Stunning views of Cannes, the Lérins Islands, and the sea from a unique perspective.
• Multiple stops offer swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing in natural coves.
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences, including an aperitif and local snacks.
• Ideal for small groups wanting an exclusive, comfortable outing.
• Weather-dependent — good weather makes all the difference in enjoying the water activities.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, water-based fun, and relaxation. Starting from Cannes, the boat heads out to the hidden coves of the Lérins Islands, where you’ll have a perfect chance to take in the scenery and enjoy some swimming or snorkeling. The marine life around these unspoiled spots is especially appealing, and you’ll love the clarity of the water.

Stop 1: Cannes

Your journey begins from Cannes, where you’ll get a glimpse of the famous Croisette from the water — a view that’s often more striking than from land. The boat tour offers a peek into the luxurious side of Cannes, with the coastline’s palaces and upscale hotels lining the shore.

You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, exploring the coastline and perhaps snapping some photos of the iconic avenue. It’s a gentle start that sets the tone for a day of scenic cruising and water adventures.

Stop 2: The Lérins Islands

Next, you’ll cruise towards the Lérins Islands, a true highlight. This stop is all about experiencing the tranquility and beauty of these islands, with a focus on water activities. You’ll have time to snorkel in turquoise waters and explore marine life, thanks to masks and snorkels provided.

One reviewer described this moment as “a real out-of-time experience,” emphasizing the memorable underwater environment. The surroundings are calm, perfect for relaxing and unwinding amid nature.

Stop 3: Ile Sainte-Marguerite

The largest of the islands, Ile Sainte-Marguerite, features a stunning cove where the boat drops anchor for about an hour. Here, you can dive, swim, or paddleboard, taking advantage of the calm waters. The island’s natural beauty and clear waters make it an inviting spot for a swim or simply floating and soaking up the sun.

Stop 4: Ile Saint-Honorat

The next island is Ile Saint-Honorat, known for its majestic scenery and serene atmosphere. Here, the boat stops for about an hour as well. If you’re into exploring, you might find the island’s quiet charm and natural surroundings a perfect break from the usual tourist spots.

Final Stop: Croisette from the Sea

The trip winds down with a 30-minute cruise along the Croisette, giving you a different perspective of Cannes’ iconic boulevard. You’ll get to admire the grand hotels and luxury yachts from the water, a view many travelers find captivating.

What’s Included and How Does It Work?

The tour lasts around 4 hours, making it a substantial half-day adventure. Cost-wise, it’s approximately $685 for up to five people, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering it’s a private experience, the exclusivity, flexibility, and personalized attention can make this feel like a worthwhile splurge.

The tour includes snacks, an aperitif, and drinks on board, adding to the relaxed vibe. You also get to choose whether to paddleboard, snorkel, or just lounge, which means you can tailor the experience to your mood and energy levels.

A noteworthy detail is the skipper fee of €200 that you pay directly on the boat. This is common for private boat rentals in this area but is worth noting in your budget planning.

The Boat and the Experience

The boat itself is described as beautiful, spacious, and clean. Its size appears perfect for a small group, ensuring comfort without feeling crowded. Many reviews highlight the skipper’s professionalism and friendly demeanor, which elevates the overall experience.

According to feedback, the skipper is very knowledgeable, providing some interesting local insights and making sure everyone feels comfortable. From the reviews, you’ll also find that the boat comes fully equipped with snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a nice selection of drinks and snacks, including a charcuterie board that was appreciated by many.

People frequently mention how the experience is relaxed and tailored—a major plus if you’re someone who prefers avoiding large crowds and rigid schedules. The ability to choose how much to participate in water activities or simply relax on deck adds to the tour’s appeal.

The Water Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Paddleboarding

This trip really shines for water lovers. You can snorkel among abundant fish in the clear waters or stand-up paddleboard in peaceful coves, as several reviews mention. The water temperature in early June is noted to be around 22°C (72°F), which most find acceptable even if not Caribbean warm.

If you’re worried about motion sickness, the skipper is said to be attentive and will navigate to calmer waters if needed. For many, the water-based moments are the highlight, providing a refreshing break from sightseeing and a chance to connect with nature.

The Food and Drinks

Onboard, you’ll enjoy refreshing drinks and a delightful aperitif board, which many reviews cite as a lovely touch. It’s casual, relaxed, and a good way to toast the beautiful surroundings or just wind down.

Some guests have appreciated the local snacks, especially the charcuterie, which adds a gourmet touch to the trip. If you’re a foodie or simply enjoy a good drink with a view, this extra makes the experience feel more special.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour is particularly well-suited for those who value privacy and personalized service. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group—friends, a couple, or a family (though children under 3 are not accepted).

Water enthusiasts will love the opportunity to snorkel and paddleboard in pristine waters. It’s also a great choice for anyone wanting to see the coastline from a different perspective, away from crowded beaches or organized tours.

If you’re after a luxurious, relaxed half-day with a touch of adventure and gorgeous scenery, this trip will hit the mark. Do keep in mind the cost, as it reflects the private, tailored nature of this experience.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour around the Lérins Islands offers a blend of stunning scenery, water fun, and personalized service. It’s a fantastic way to experience the calm, natural beauty of the area without the hustle of larger group excursions. The ability to snorkel, paddleboard, and relax in peaceful coves makes it especially appealing for water lovers or anyone wanting a laid-back day on the sea.

While the price might seem high for some, the level of exclusivity, flexibility, and comfort could make it worthwhile—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day with friends or family. For those who appreciate scenic cruises with water activities and good company, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a super budget-friendly or highly active adventure, this might not be your best fit. The experience is best enjoyed with good weather, a relaxed mindset, and a desire to savor the natural beauty of the French Riviera from the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not accepted, but older kids who enjoy water activities will likely love the snorkeling and paddleboarding.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the boat, water activities gear like snorkels and paddleboards, snacks, and drinks. The skipper fee of €200 is payable on the boat.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the experience is private and flexible, with stops at scenic coves, islands, and scenic views of Cannes.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Sci Asia, 190 Allée Calypso, Mandelieu-la-Napoule. Additional fees apply for departure from Canto Port of Cannes.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled if the conditions aren’t suitable.

Do I need to worry about water temperature or weather?
Water temperature in early June is around 22°C, generally suitable for swimming. The skipper will navigate to calmer waters if needed, and the tour is weather-dependent for safety and comfort.

If you’re keen on combining scenic views, water activities, and a touch of luxury, this private boat trip along the French Riviera might just be your perfect escape. It’s a chance to see the coastline from a unique angle and create some unforgettable memories in a beautiful setting.