Cannes: Boat trip without a license to the Lerins Islands

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the South of France’s most beautiful sights without the fuss of needing a license, this boat trip to the Lerins Islands might just be what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but after reading through the details and reviews, it’s clear that this experience offers a relaxed, enjoyable day on the water—perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace.

What really stands out is the freedom to navigate a boat without needing a license, along with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and visit interesting spots like the underwater museum. On the other hand, one thing to keep in mind is the limited time at each stop, which might leave some wanting more. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a laid-back, intimate experience, whether you’re with family, friends, or a partner.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic day with some time to relax and enjoy the sea, this could be a great fit. It’s not overly structured, which tends to appeal to those who like to explore without feeling rushed. But if you’re after a more comprehensive or guided experience, you might find other options more suitable.

Key Points

• No license required: You can steer your own boat without prior experience.
• Ideal for small groups: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Flexible itinerary: You choose how long to stay at each stop, like Sainte Marguerite or Saint-Honorat.
• Great for swimming: Crystal-clear waters and the underwater museum provide excellent opportunities to cool off.
• Stunning views of Cannes: See the city from the sea, offering a fresh perspective.
• Family-friendly but not for under 3s: Kids under 3 aren’t accepted, so check if your little ones are eligible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Lerins Islands by Boat: What to Expect

This boat trip promises seven hours of relaxed adventure, starting from the Port de Cannes Marina. It’s a self-driven experience, meaning you’re largely in charge of your day, which appeals to those who want flexibility without the pressure of a guided tour. The boat itself is described as comfortable and easy to handle—perfect if you’re a first-timer or just want to enjoy the ride without too much hassle.

Starting at Cannes

Your journey begins right at the Port de Cannes Marina. From there, you’ll get a brief orientation before setting sail to enjoy a one-hour sightseeing stop in Cannes itself. The city viewed from the water offers a fresh perspective, with sights you might not see while walking around. It’s a good way to get your bearings and enjoy some scenic photos of the coastline.

Exploring the Lerins Islands

Next, the focus shifts to the Lerins Islands, which are the main highlight. You’ll spend around two hours exploring these nearby islands, which are known for their natural beauty and historical sites. The islands are relatively small but packed with character, from ancient abbeys to quiet coves.

On Sainte Marguerite Island, you get about an hour to enjoy, which is enough time for a quick walk, swim, or just soaking in the scenery. Saint-Honorat Island, with its monks and historic ruins, also gets an hour. These stops are perfect for stretching your legs, snapping photos, or exploring hidden corners.

Swimming and the Underwater Museum

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to swim in the clear waters—the water quality is high, and the scenery makes for a perfect swim stop. Plus, the underwater museum is a unique feature that adds an interesting layer to your water adventure. Brent from the US mentioned that taking a swim near the museum and Port Royal was a “great experience with layers of history,” which shows how this adds both fun and a bit of cultural intrigue.

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The Côte d’Azur Scenic Drive

The tour continues with a visit to Théoule-sur-Mer, which is often appreciated for its beautiful coastline. You’ll have around two hours here, offering more time to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the views of the rugged coastline. It’s a less crowded, more laid-back part of the trip that provides a different perspective from the busy Cannes area.

Returning to Cannes

After a leisurely day at sea and on the islands, you’ll head back to the starting point in Cannes. The entire experience is designed with a relaxed pace in mind, making it suitable for those who prefer a more unhurried day.

The Experience in Practice

What makes this trip stand out is the personal touch and the freedom it offers. The boat is described as spacious and easy to maneuver, which is a significant plus for those who want to steer their own course. The reviews emphasize the friendly guides and hosts, who go above and beyond—like bringing extra supplies for guests, making the experience feel special.

The small group size (limited to 7 people) ensures a more intimate setting, with plenty of space to relax and not feel rushed. Multiple reviewers have praised the kind and helpful hosts, noting their attentiveness and warm personality. One reviewer, Petra from Belgium, called it a “Unieke ervaring” or a unique experience, highlighting how different and memorable this trip can be.

Practical Notes

• Duration: Seven hours, which gives plenty of time to explore without feeling hurried.
• Price: The cost reflects the personalized service and private experience. Considering the freedom to sail where you want and swim in pristine waters, many find the value fair.
• Group size: Limited to seven, making it more personal and less commercial.
• Children: Not suitable for kids under 3, so plan accordingly.
• Booking: Flexible options like pay later and full refunds up to 24 hours in advance make planning easier.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Trip?

If you’re someone who enjoys being in control of your adventure, appreciates scenic views, and loves the idea of swimming in clear waters, this tour fits the bill. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small families who want to experience the Mediterranean at their own pace. The absence of a guide means you’ll be relying on your own sense of direction or the help of the host, so it’s best if you’re comfortable with a bit of independence on the water.

This experience is less about structured sightseeing and more about savoring the moment and exploring at leisure. If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed day on the water with stunning scenery, this trip offers great value. But if you prefer guided commentary or more structured activities, other options might be better.

FAQs

Do I need a license to rent the boat?
No, this trip is designed for boats that don’t require a license, making it accessible even for first-timers.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including time for stops and swimming.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, as long as you have the desire to steer and enjoy the experience, the boat is easy to handle and suitable for beginners.

Is there a guide or instructor?
The experience is more self-guided, but the host and crew are available for assistance and safety instructions.

Are children allowed on this trip?
Children under 3 are not accepted, so check if your young kids are eligible.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks or drinks. The boat and stops are laid-back, so pack light.

Is the water safe for swimming?
Yes, the waters are described as crystal clear, ideal for swimming and floating.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 7 participants for a more private experience.

What’s the meeting point?
Meet at the flags in front of the harbor master’s office at the Port de Cannes Marina. Coordinates: 43.53459167480469, 6.936983108520508.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This boat trip offers a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy the stunning scenery and waters around Cannes. It’s perfect if you want to set your own pace, explore hidden coves, and take a dip in warm, inviting waters. With friendly hosts and a small group size, it promises a personal and memorable day out on the Mediterranean. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just in need of some quiet seaside time, this experience could turn out to be one of your favorite parts of the French Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: