Private escape to discover Cannes & Lerins islands from the sea

Discovering Cannes & Lerins Islands from the sea: a detailed look at this private boat tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water soaking in the sights of Cannes’s glamorous coastline and exploring the nearby Lerins Islands, this private boat experience might be just what you’re after. It’s a tailored way to see the area, combining relaxing moments, fun water activities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty — all aboard a sleek, spacious boat perfect for groups.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility and the chance to customize your day. You can chill out on sunbeds, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or paddle around at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and the option to rent an underwater scooter add a layer of fun and luxury that’s hard to beat. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the cost can seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, especially with the optional skippers and extras. Still, for groups seeking a private, hassle-free day at sea, this tour offers real value.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a personalized day on the water — whether celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a family outing, or just escaping the hustle for a few hours. If you love stunning views, water-based activities, and a touch of luxury, you’re likely to find this a memorable way to experience Cannes and its surrounds.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Private and customizable: Designed for groups of up to 11, allowing for a tailored experience.
• Includes water activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and optional underwater scooter rental.
• Beautiful stops: Lerins Islands, underwater museum, Fort Royal, and Saint-Honorat.
• Comfortable onboard amenities: Sunbeds, premium sound system, cooler with water and wine.
• Flexible itinerary: Explore, relax, or party — your choice.
• Good value for groups: The price includes fuel, but extra costs for the skipper and certain extras apply.

An in-depth look at what this boat tour offers

This private boat experience from Cannes is more than just a scenic cruise; it’s a chance to truly enjoy the water and nearby islands at your own pace. The boat itself is described as new, elegant, and spacious, making it perfect for groups of up to 11 people. Having a private vessel means you won’t be stuck with strangers or rushed through the stops — instead, it’s all about your preferred rhythm and activities.

The starting point and overall vibe

The tour kicks off at the Cannes port, specifically at the famous Croisette, which is home to the yachts and luxury boats you’ll want to look at during your departure. From there, the boat glides out into the bay, offering a stunning first view of the coast and the impressive yachts moored at Canto.

This initial leg sets the tone for the day — a relaxed but luxurious cruise with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sea breeze. The boat’s premium Bluetooth sound system is a nice touch, letting you customize your playlist for the trip.

The itinerary breakdown: what to expect

The tour’s route is designed to showcase some of the best sights and water experiences around Cannes and the Lerins Islands. Here’s what each stop entails:

Stop 1: Lerins Islands and Sainte Marguerite
This is the first major stop, taking you to the Lerins Islands, known for their natural beauty and historical sites. The highlight here is the Fort Royal on Sainte Marguerite Island, famous for its old prison where the infamous “Man in the Iron Mask” was held. You’ll have around an hour to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and perhaps do some water activities. We loved the way the waters here are crystal clear — perfect for snorkeling or just floating around on a paddleboard.

Stop 2: Underwater Museum of Cannes
Anchoring between the islands, this part of the tour is where you can jump in and explore the underwater museum. The water is described as transparent, which means excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Being able to see the marine life and the submerged sculptures adds an intriguing dimension to the experience, especially for those who enjoy exploring beneath the surface.

Stop 3: Ile Saint-Honorat
This is the optional cultural stop, where you can either visit the monastery or simply relax and have lunch at the island’s restaurant. The island is known as the monks’ island, and visiting the monastery gives a glimpse of its tranquil, spiritual atmosphere. The 30-minute stop here is perfect for a quick cultural fix or a peaceful walk.

Stop 4: Cannes Bay and Return
The final stretch involves cruising around the famous bay, admiring the luxury palaces and the vibrant Croisette from the water. It’s a leisurely way to end the trip, soaking in the sights of Cannes’s glitz and glamour with a scenic backdrop.

Water activities and onboard amenities

One of the big draws of this tour is the variety of water-based options. Included in the package are snorkeling gear and paddleboards, so you can get out on the water and explore at your own pace. Plus, with a sun canopy and front & rear sunbeds, you’ll have plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.

For those looking to add a bit of adrenaline, the optional SeaBob underwater scooter can be rented for an extra €150. This is a fantastic way to see more of the underwater world without needing prior experience and adds an element of thrill to your day.

The onboard cooler is stocked with water and wine — a nice touch that helps keep everyone refreshed. You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks, which makes this a flexible and casual experience.

The drinks and food aspect

The inclusion of wine and bottled water, plus the option to bring your own snacks, makes the day feel more like a floating picnic or private party. If you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette, or just a fun day out, this setup lends itself well to a relaxed, festive vibe.

The cost and what you get

At around $809 for a group of up to 11 people, the price might seem high, but it’s worth considering what’s included: fuel to the Lerins Islands, snorkeling gear, paddleboard, and the boat itself. The price excludes the €300 skipper fee, which is necessary if you want a professional skipper to handle navigation, though you can technically captain the boat yourself if you’re experienced.

The reviews highlight that many travelers found the experience to be excellent value, especially since it’s a private, customizable tour. One reviewer mentioned that the boat was “just like the pictures,” and the captain was “very accommodating and friendly,” which adds to the appeal.

Booking and flexibility

Most travelers book about 48 days in advance, indicating strong interest and the need to plan ahead. The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing some peace of mind if weather or plans change.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for groups who want a personalized day on the water without the hassle of booking multiple services. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions, small family outings, or a luxurious escape with friends. The flexibility to relax, swim, snorkel, or party makes it appealing for a variety of travelers.

If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, privacy, and beautiful scenery, this boat tour offers all three. Just keep in mind the additional costs for the skipper and optional extras, which can add up.

Final thoughts

This private boat tour around Cannes and the Lerins Islands offers a unique mix of scenery, water fun, and comfort. The ability to customize your day, combined with the modern amenities on board, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an exclusive experience on the Mediterranean. The stops at the islands, underwater museum, and optional monastery visit ensure you’ll get a good dose of culture and nature, even on a short excursion.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the level of privacy, the quality of the boat, and the variety of activities make it a solid value for groups looking for a memorable day. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, a flexible itinerary, and a touch of luxury. Whether celebrating or just seeking a peaceful escape, this tour could easily be one of your favorite Cannes memories.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat rental, fuel to the Lerins Islands, snorkeling gear, paddleboard, bottled water, and wine. Fuel for the trip is included, but not the skipper if you choose to hire one.

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 11 guests can comfortably fit aboard, making it a good choice for small groups or families.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible — you can relax, do water activities, or explore cultural sites depending on your preferences.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own food and snacks to enjoy onboard or during stops.

What about renting the SeaBob underwater scooter?
The SeaBob can be rented for an additional €150, adding a fun, underwater adventure to your trip.

Do I need a skipper?
A skipper is optional and costs €300 if you want someone to navigate the boat. If you’re experienced, you could captain the boat yourself.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation if the weather isn’t suitable, and you can reschedule or get a full refund if canceled within 24 hours.

This private boat trip around Cannes and Lerins Islands caters to those wanting a personalized, scenic day on the water with options to relax or add some adventure. It’s a well-rounded choice for anyone looking to enjoy the coast in style, especially if you’re traveling with a group that values comfort and flexibility.