Private sailing excursion & Provençal picnic

Discover the Charm of the South of France with a Private Sailing & Picnic Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in the South of France, this private sailing excursion around the Lérins archipelago might just be your ideal outing. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and details paint a picture of a relaxed, scenic, and engaging experience perfect for lovers of sailing, regional cuisine, and stunning coastal views.

What immediately draws us in are the personalized nature of a private group, making it feel more like a day spent with friends than a crowded tour. Plus, the chance to participate in sailing maneuvers adds an element of adventure, not just sightseeing. However, a potential consideration is the lack of hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. This tour suits those who enjoy the water, are curious about sailing, and want a taste of Provençal flavors in a laid-back setting.

Key Points

• Private group experience offers personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe
• Hands-on sailing appeals to adventure lovers who want to participate in boat maneuvers
• Scenic stops on Sainte-Marguerite Island provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring
• Gourmet picnic with regional foods and rosé wine delivers an authentic Provençal touch
• Flexible timing and cancellation policies make it easier to fit into travel plans
• Expert guidance from a knowledgeable local captain enhances the overall experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Private Sailing & Provençal Picnic

This experience is a day-long journey that begins in Cannes and takes you across the beautiful waters of the Lérins archipelago, known for its clear waters, rocky islets, and lush landscapes. What makes this trip stand out is its personalized approach — you’re not on a large, impersonal boat but on a cozy, vintage Jeanneau Sangria sailboat, about 8 meters long, operated by a passionate local captain, Maxime Banchini.

The price tag of $146 per person reflects a fairly comprehensive experience: a scenic sail, stops for swimming and snorkeling, a regional picnic, and the chance to get involved in sailing maneuvers. For those who appreciate a good balance between relaxation and activity, this outing could be well worth it. The reviews consistently praise the value — travelers loved the authentic, friendly atmosphere and high-quality guidance.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Promenade de la Pantiero

The trip kicks off from a central spot in Cannes, making it easy for visitors to hop on without fuss. The one-hour transfer to the islands is a good warm-up, giving you time to settle in and get a feel for the boat.

Sailing to Sainte-Marguerite Island

Once aboard, the real highlight begins. Maxime shares his passion and knowledge of sailing, making you feel part of the crew. This is especially appreciated by adventure seekers, who can participate in boat maneuvers — a rare treat on a small group trip. The vessel’s vintage charm, combined with the fresh sea breeze, creates a laid-back and intimate atmosphere.

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Exploring and Enjoying Sainte-Marguerite Island

The stop on Sainte-Marguerite offers plenty of opportunities. You can swim in clear waters, explore the seabed with provided snorkeling gear, or simply walk around the island’s scenic trails. The reviews highlight that the boat’s setup makes the experience comfortable and friendly, with bath towels and diving masks available.

Some travelers, like Kate, mention how calm and lovely the day was, emphasizing the peaceful water and expert navigation. The island itself isn’t described as overly commercialized, maintaining a more authentic feel.

Lunch and Leisure

Your Provençal picnic is a highlight — regional dishes paired with rosé wine. The food is described as beautiful and high-quality, providing a true taste of Provence. The combination of regional flavors and local wine enhances the experience, especially for those who savor good food and drink with their scenery.

Additional Activities

Back on the boat, you can enjoy chatting, listening to music, or simply soaking up the views. When weather permits, snorkeling adds a playful dimension, with all necessary equipment supplied. Also, some reviews note how the captain navigated weather challenges, like a rainstorm, with ease, providing reassurance about safety and professionalism.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

The tour price covers most essentials: the stop on Sainte Marguerite, the local captain, towels, snorkeling gear, regional picnic with rosé and non-alcoholic beverages, and fuel. One thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Pantiero Square.

Travelers rave about the quality of the food and drinks. Ashley appreciated the customized itinerary, which included walking and swimming stops. The experience is private, meaning your group can enjoy a tailored journey without strangers.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that Maxime’s attentiveness and passion make a real difference. Angie calls the day “truly glorious,” while Shiralee mentions how Maxime’s relaxed but skilled approach created a very comfortable environment. Many reviewers appreciate how involved they could be, whether it was helping with sailing or simply relaxing with the company and scenery.

The consistency in positive feedback about the guidance, stunning views, and quality wine suggests that the experience often exceeds expectations. The occasional weather challenge is handled smoothly, which speaks to the professionalism of the captain.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This trip is perfect for those who want an authentic, intimate day on the water with a focus on regional flavors and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy sailing and are comfortable participating in boat maneuvers. Since the experience involves swimming and snorkeling, a basic level of comfort with water is helpful, though equipment is provided.

It’s not suited for those with mobility issues, given the nature of the boat and the lack of wheelchair accessibility. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, you’ll likely find the private aspect very appealing, but groups or families with older children should check restrictions or suitability.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing and picnic experience in the South of France offers a lovely blend of adventure, relaxation, and regional charm. The chance to sail aboard a vintage boat, enjoy a Provencal feast, and explore Sainte-Marguerite Island makes for a memorable day. The reviews confirm that the guide’s expertise, combined with the stunning scenery and good company, creates a truly special outing.

While it’s not the cheapest activity in the area, the personalized attention and quality of the experience justify the price. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, hands-on sailing, and authentic regional food. If that sounds like your kind of day, this adventure could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, which suggests that children need to be supervised and possibly meet age requirements. It’s best to check with the provider if you’re considering bringing kids, but generally, this experience is tailored more toward adults and those comfortable on a boat.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable in the sun. Towels and snorkeling masks are provided, so you don’t need to pack those.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is about 4 hours on the water, with transfers included. The actual sailing and activities take most of the day, from departure to return.

Where do we meet?
Meeting is at Promenade de la Pantiero, right in front of the metal gate entrance. There’s no hotel pickup, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Can I participate in the sailing maneuvers?
Yes, adventure lovers can get involved in boat maneuvers, making it more interactive than just sitting back and watching.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the stop on Sainte Marguerite Island, a regional picnic with rosé wine, snorkeling gear, towels, and fuel surcharge.

Is good weather necessary?
Yes, the trip is best enjoyed in good weather. The captain navigates weather challenges carefully, but poor conditions could impact the experience.

If the idea of sailing, scenic islands, regional food, and a relaxed day on the water appeals to you, this private Provençal picnic and sailing tour seems like a delightful choice. It combines authentic regional flavors with the charm of the Côte d’Azur, all guided by a passionate local captain.

You can check availability for your dates here: