Excursion to Porquerolles Island from Bandol

If you’re looking to spend a day exploring one of France’s most captivating islands, the excursion from Bandol to Porquerolles might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it’s a well-rated experience that offers a blend of scenic sea travel and island discovery. The trip’s appeal lies in its combination of a comfortable cruise, a generous six and a half hours to explore the island, and the chance to see some of the region’s spectacular coastline.

What really draws us to this tour is the chance to enjoy a guided cruise with commentary, which adds a layer of insight that makes the journey more engaging. Plus, the emphasis on biking and beach time means you get to be active and relaxed in a single day — always a win in our book. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the local vibe can feel a bit rushed and that amenities on the island, like toilets, might not be up to the same standard as the scenery.

This experience is probably best suited for travelers who love a mix of nature, a bit of adventure, and a comfortable boat trip. If you’re okay with the potential crowds and some less-than-perfect local service, this could be an ideal way to see Porquerolles without the hassle of arranging transport or activities yourself.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise with guided commentary offers a relaxed way to enjoy the coastline.
• Six and a half hours on the island gives ample time for exploration, especially biking and beach visits.
• Lively, informative crew makes the journey enjoyable, with dolphin sightings often included.
• Some logistical challenges on the island include rushed bike rentals and basic amenities.
• Value for money is quite good at $62, considering the cruise, guide, and long island stop.
• Best for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a flexible schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

We find that tours like this are best appreciated when you’re aware of what’s included—and what’s not. Starting from Bandol, the first part of the day involves a 1.5-hour cruise along the coast aboard the Atlantide, a vessel designed for comfort and good views. The cruise features a commented route, which is a nice touch—especially if you’re interested in learning about the region’s geography and history. The crew’s knowledge and friendly attitude seem to be a highlight, with some reviews praising the captain for making the journey fun and engaging.

The Cruise: Setting the Tone

The boat crosses the bay, often with the added thrill of dolphin sightings, according to some reviews. The captain’s humor and attentiveness make this part of the trip memorable. It’s a laid-back start that allows you to relax and take in the panoramic views of the French coastline. Expect plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the shimmering waters and rugged cliffs. The sea trip alone is a calming, scenic experience, especially if you’re fond of being on the water.

The Stopover at Porquerolles: What You’ll Do

Once on the island, you get around 6 hours and 30 minutes to explore. The most appealing aspect of this stop is the chance to wander around the marina and the small Provencal village, which exudes charm with narrow streets and local shops. The island is part of a National Park, which means lush vegetation surrounds the beaches and trails—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the tour’s highlights is renting bicycles to explore the island’s trails. The island’s classification as a National Park means there are trails that wind through the greenery, leading to some fantastic viewpoints and peaceful beaches. The fine sandy beaches, like Plage d’Argent, are often praised for their crystal-clear waters and pine trees that offer shade, perfect for a quick dip or picnic.

The Bike Experience and Beaches

Biking is a popular option here, and many travelers enjoy it—though, as some reviews mention, the rental process can feel a bit rushed. You might find yourself getting a low-end bike if you don’t act quickly, so if you’re a cycling enthusiast, this could be a minor annoyance. That said, the ride through the lush landscape is relaxing and offers a different way to see the island.

The beaches are a major draw, with many reviews noting the beauty of the waters and the pristine sands. It’s a great spot to unwind, take photos, or simply enjoy the view of the crystal-clear waters surrounded by pine trees.

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The Return Journey

The return cruise takes another 1.5 hours, giving you a different perspective of the coastline. The crew seems committed to providing a safe and pleasant ride, with some travelers noting splash protection measures during the return to avoid getting splashed by the waves.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour costs $62 per person, which is fairly reasonable considering the length of the cruise and the island time. Included in this price are the sea tour and the commented route—meaning you’ll get some insightful commentary about the sights along the way. However, be aware that food and beverages are not included, so it’s best to bring your own snacks or plan to buy on the island.

Tickets do not allow you to cut the queue, so arriving a bit early is a smart move. The meeting point is directly in front of the Atlantide boats at Bandol harbor, making it convenient to find.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility—ideal if you want to keep your plans open until closer to your trip.

Timing and Duration

Board 30 minutes before departure, with a 5:00 p.m. departure from Porquerolles. The day’s schedule makes for a nicely paced experience—long enough to relax and explore without feeling rushed.

What We Liked and What Could Be Better

Based on reviews and the experience described, this tour offers excellent value for those keen on a scenic, outdoor day with a bit of adventure. The guides and crew seem to be a highlight, making the trip more enjoyable with their knowledge and humor. The chance to see dolphins and enjoy stunning beaches is a real plus.

However, some downsides are worth noting. Several reviews mention rushed bike rentals and the rough condition of some facilities on the island, like the lack of handwashing facilities in public toilets. Prices for food on the island are not cheap—the review mentioning the high cost of food in the port is a good heads-up. If you’re planning to eat there, bringing snacks or a small picnic might save you some money.

The island’s lively pace and the somewhat hurried rental process might not suit travelers looking for a very relaxed or luxurious experience. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of hustle and bustle, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is perfect if you’re someone who appreciates scenic boat rides, enjoys cycling or walking in nature, and wants to see Porquerolles without the hassle of arranging transportation and activities independently. It suits those who don’t mind some crowds and are okay with basic amenities on the island.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo and love the idea of exploring beautiful beaches and charming villages, this trip offers a fun and practical way to do so. If ultimate tranquility or gourmet dining is your priority, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This excursion to Porquerolles from Bandol strikes a good balance between scenic cruising and island exploration. It’s a straightforward, value-packed day that allows you to enjoy the natural beauty, beaches, and quaint village life of this popular Provençal island. The knowledgeable guides and dolphin sightings can add that special touch to your day out on the water.

While some aspects like bike rentals and amenities could be improved, overall, it offers a reliable and enjoyable experience for travelers who want a taste of Provence’s stunning coastline and island charm without overcomplicating their plans. It’s especially suitable for those who love outdoor activities, scenic views, and a relaxed pace.

If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized way to visit Porquerolles and enjoy some quality time in nature, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Bandol to Porquerolles?
The cruise takes about 1.5 hours each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes the sea trip, the guided commentary, and the island stopover. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I rent bikes on the island?
Yes, bike rentals are available, but some reviews mention the process can feel rushed and the bikes might be basic.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Bring snacks, some water, and sunscreen. Arrive at least 30 minutes early at the harbor.

Are there restroom facilities on the island?
Public toilets exist, but some visitors note they are not very well maintained, especially in terms of hygiene.

When does the boat return to Bandol?
The return cruise departs from Porquerolles at 5:00 p.m., giving you ample time to explore beforehand.

Is there a guided commentary during the cruise?
Yes, the route is commented on by the crew, providing context and interesting facts about the coastline and island.

How much does food cost on the island?
Prices can be higher than expected, with some reviews mentioning they are more expensive than in St Trop. Bringing your own snacks could be a good idea.

Would this tour suit families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy boats and beaches might find it enjoyable. The focus on outdoor activities means it’s more suited to active travelers.

This comprehensive review should help you gauge whether this trip aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re after scenic views, a bit of adventure, or simply a relaxing day on the water, the Porquerolles tour from Bandol has a lot to offer—just keep your expectations balanced and plan ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here: