Cannes: Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch

Imagine gliding smoothly over the sparkling waters of the Bay of Cannes on a sleek, contemporary catamaran. This tour promises a combination of sights, relaxation, and a tasty lunch—making it an appealing choice for travelers looking to enjoy the French Riviera without committing to a full-day outing.

What we love about this experience is the comfortable, spacious boat and the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the clear Mediterranean waters, all while soaking up the sun. Plus, the cold buffet lunch and wine add a touch of indulgence.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that snorkeling depends on the weather and sea conditions, and some reviews mention that the visibility might not always be ideal. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise rather than intense adventure.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable half-day on the water, with good food and lovely views, this experience tends to hit the right notes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to relax, appreciate the scenery, and enjoy some quality time on the sea.

Key Points

• Comfortable and spacious catamaran with modern amenities
• Includes swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck
• Delicious cold buffet lunch paired with a glass of wine
• Easy, well-organized check-in at the Cannes old port
• Family-friendly and accessible for wheelchair users
• Weather-dependent snorkeling conditions

When considering a boat trip in Cannes, this half-day cruise offers a nice balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and good eats. It’s designed for those who want to experience the beauty of the French Riviera from the water without dedicating an entire day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your day begins at 10:15 AM with boarding in the old port of Cannes. The process is quite straightforward — just arrive about 30 minutes early at the Trans Cote d’Azur office at 20 Quai Saint Pierre to get your tickets. The crew will give a quick introduction to the boat, so you know what to expect before setting sail.

Once onboard, the vessel departs for the Lérins Islands, a highlight of this tour. These islands are a favorite for their scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The trip out offers ample opportunity for enjoying the stunning vistas of Cannes and its surroundings.

The Swim and Snorkel Stops

The core of the experience is the stop between the islands, where you’re encouraged to swim and snorkel (equipment provided). The reviews consistently highlight the snorkeling — some even mention dolphin sightings or seeing the underwater world. However, a few travelers note that sea conditions may affect visibility; the water might be a bit cold or murky depending on the day.

If swimming isn’t your thing, you can simply relax on the deck, enjoying the sun and the gentle sway of the boat. Many reviews praise the comfortable, spacious layout and the friendly crew that helps everyone feel at ease.

The Lunch: Cold Buffet and Wine

At around 1:00 PM, it’s time to enjoy a cold buffet lunch served on board, with a glass of wine included. The menu typically features cold chicken, pasta salads, pizza, and fresh fruit or tart for dessert, with some reviewers mentioning the quality as quite good for a cruise lunch.

Guests have noted that the food is plentiful and well-presented, making it more than just a snack. The wine is a nice touch, especially when paired with the scenic views. However, some reviews mention the limited vegetarian options, so if you have specific dietary preferences, plan accordingly.

The Return Journey and Island Disembarkation

Around 2:15 PM, you’ll disembark at Saint Marguerite Island, where you’ll switch to a ferry back to Cannes. This part of the trip is included in the ticket, making the journey smooth. The ferry ride back offers a relaxed way to soak in more views of the coastline and reflect on the day.

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The Group Size and Atmosphere

Generally, the boat isn’t overcrowded — reviews mention feeling like it’s a private tour even with a larger group. The boat seats are plentiful, and there’s enough space for everyone to find a comfy spot. The atmosphere is described as chill, cozy, and well-organized, making it suitable for couples, friends, or small groups.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: About 4 hours, starting mid-morning and returning early afternoon
• Meeting Point: Quai Laubeuf at the end of the Laubeuf carpark — arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Inclusions: Boat cruise, snorkel/mask, buffet lunch, and ferry back from the island
• What to Bring: Towels, swimsuits, cash (no card machine on board), sunscreen, and any extras like drinks or snacks
• Limitations: No outside food or alcohol allowed onboard; snorkeling depends on sea conditions
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers
• Weather Dependency: Snorkeling and swimming are weather-dependent; a chilly day might limit water activity

What the Reviews Say

The majority of travelers seem to rate this experience highly, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 from over 200 reviews. People praise the friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and the value for money. One reviewer from Australia called it “top-notch,” while another from the US described it as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Some travelers wish there was more than one swimming stop, as a few felt that just one was not enough. Others noted that snorkeling conditions may vary; a reviewer from Denmark mentioned they were unable to see much underwater.

The lunch quality receives generally positive comments, though some suggest that vegetarians and vegans might find the options limited. Still, the ample food and drinks, along with the relaxed vibe, make the cruise quite enjoyable.

Things That Could Be Improved

A few reviews point out minor inconveniences, such as the lack of a detailed guide or commentary during the cruise. Some wished for a bit more information about the coastline or the islands. Also, since cash is required for drinks on board, travelers should remember to bring some with them, as the card machine isn’t available.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic half-day on the water. The boat is large and comfortable, and the included lunch adds value. The opportunity to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun makes it versatile for different preferences.

That said, it’s best suited for those who enjoy casual sightseeing and light water activity. It’s not geared toward high-adventure or intense snorkeling, but it hits the sweet spot for most travelers seeking a scenic, enjoyable experience with good food and welcoming crew.

This cruise is perfect for couples or friends wanting a relaxing day on the Riviera. It’s also suited for families or travelers with mobility needs thanks to its accessibility. If you’re interested in a laid-back way to enjoy the sea, some swimming, and a hearty meal, this is a solid choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous or activity-packed day, you might want to explore other options. The single stop for swimming and the weather dependency should also be considered — check the forecast if you’re set on snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this half-day catamaran cruise offers a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized outing with a solid value for money. The friendly crew, gorgeous views, and delicious lunch combine to make for a memorable Riviera experience. It’s a straightforward option perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with enough flexibility to enjoy the sea at your own rhythm.

If you’re visiting Cannes and want to see the coast from a different perspective—while enjoying some good food and a little swim—this cruise definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
It’s recommended to get there at least 30 minutes before departure to collect tickets and find a good spot on the boat.

What’s included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, snorkel/mask, a cold buffet lunch, and the ferry back from Saint Marguerite Island to Cannes.

Can I bring my own drinks or food on board?
Outside food and alcohol aren’t permitted, but you can bring cash if you want to purchase extra drinks. No card machine is available on the boat.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I pack?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, cash, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

How many stops are there for swimming or snorkeling?
There’s typically one main stop for swimming and snorkeling, with the possibility of variable water conditions affecting visibility.

What is the boat like?
Guests describe it as a large, modern, and comfortable catamaran that feels quite upscale and spacious.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While families have enjoyed it, consider your kids’ comfort with water and boats. The experience is relaxing and safe, but it’s primarily a scenic cruise rather than an adventure trip.

This cruise offers a gentle, enjoyable way to experience Cannes from the water. With friendly staff, scenic beauty, and a good-value buffet lunch, it appeals to many travelers seeking a laid-back but memorable Riviera day.

You can check availability for your dates here: