A Private Sail in Cannes: Yacht Me Up’s Lérins Islands Tour
Imagine drifting along the shimmering waters of the French Riviera, aboard a spacious 12-metre Dufour 382 sailboat, with only your closest friends or family aboard. For around $598, you get about three and a half hours of pure relaxation, exploring the scenic coastlines, wild coves, and natural pools of the Lérins Islands, all in a private setting away from the crowds. Led by friendly, experienced guides—like Captain Brice—this tour offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic seaside charm.
Two things we particularly love about this experience are its small group size—a maximum of six people—ensuring an intimate, personalized atmosphere and the variety of activities included, like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even underwater scooters. Plus, the chance to see the Cannes Underwater Museum and enjoy views of the Pyrotechnic Festival fireworks in summer makes this a memorable highlight.
A potential consideration is that bookings fill quickly—often 29 days in advance—so planning ahead is a must. Also, while the all-inclusive price includes food, drinks, and activities, travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen and beach towels. The experience suits those who value relaxed, personalized outings—perfect for couples, families, or friends wanting a peaceful escape at sea without sacrificing comfort or fun.
Key Points
- Exclusive Experience: Private boat for up to six people, away from crowds.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, snacks, drinks, and music.
- Flexible Options: Half-day, full-day, or sunset cruises tailored to your schedule.
- Authentic Views: Scenic sights of Cannes, the Lérins Islands, and summer fireworks.
- Highly Rated: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides and relaxing atmosphere.
- Early Bookings Recommended: Tours are popular and tend to fill up quickly.
Discovering the Beauty of Cannes and the Lérins Islands
Picture yourself starting at Esplanade Pantiero, with the glitzy Cannes skyline behind you—Palais des Festivals, luxurious seafront hotels, and the famous Croisette—before slipping away onto the water. For about three and a half hours, you’ll cruise on a sleek Dufour 382 sailboat, with only your group onboard, which means plenty of space for lounging, swimming, or simply soaking in the views.
The guides, like Captain Brice, are praised for their friendly, professional manner and their knowledge of the area, ensuring you get the most out of your trip. We loved the way they balanced providing information with giving us plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Planning more time in Cannes? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights
Departure and Initial Views
Your journey begins at the Esplanade Pantiero in Cannes, a lively hub close to the city’s heart. From here, the boat glides out into the bay, offering an excellent vantage point of Cannes’ iconic skyline. As you leave the marina, you’ll admire the Palais des Festivals, the seafront hotels, and the bustling Croisette.
Exploring the Lérins Islands
Once past the coast, the real adventure starts. The Lérins Islands, just a short sail away, are famous for their wild beauty and tranquility. You’ll visit Saint-Honorat and Saint Marguerite, with options to explore natural coves, secret beaches, and even natural pools—perfect spots for a swim or paddleboarding.
Snorkeling and Underwater Discoveries
Snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests rave about the Cannes Underwater Museum, where monumental statues rest just beneath the surface. We loved the idea of floating over these artistic creations—it’s like swimming through a modern underwater sculpture park. The underwater scooter (seabob) adds an extra layer of fun, making the experience accessible even for beginners.
Food, Drinks, and Relaxation
The all-inclusive package includes snacks, appetizers, drinks, and music, creating a laid-back vibe. Optional offerings like seafood platters or wood-fired pizzas can be delivered directly on board, elevating the experience further. As one reviewer mentioned, “The food, drinks, and environment were fantastic,” making it feel more like a floating restaurant than just a boat trip.
Special Summer Events
During summer, a unique highlight is viewing the Pyrotechnic Festival fireworks from the boat—an unforgettable, peaceful way to enjoy this spectacular display. Since the fireworks are viewed from the water, you get a perfect, unobstructed view that’s both intimate and dramatic.
Ending the Day
Depending on your selected option, the cruise might end with a sunset view, casting golden hues over Cannes and the sea, or simply returning to the starting point after a relaxing day at sea.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Guests consistently praise the personalized approach of the guides, particularly Captain Brice and his team. Martha describes her family’s half-day sail as “amazing and relaxing,” emphasizing the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Elise found it to be a “great experience”, noting how easy-going and fun the crew was, which made for a lovely trip.
The small group size—max six—receives continual praise for creating a cozy, private atmosphere. Paula mentions the fantastic environment and delicious food, wishing she could have stayed longer, highlighting how well-organized and enjoyable the experience is. Ben’s review points out the excellent accommodations and professional crew, making it perfect for a family escape.
Other travelers mention the stunning scenery and the peaceful, laid-back environment—a welcome contrast to bustling city streets. The combination of beautiful views, personalized service, and inclusive activities makes this boat tour a standout.
Practical Details for Planning Your Trip
Duration and Booking
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, but options for half-day, full-day, or sunset cruises allow flexibility. Since this experience is limited to six guests, it’s essential to book well in advance—most travelers do so about a month ahead. The tour is popular, and early reservation helps secure your preferred date.
Price and Value
At $598.88 per group, which covers up to six people, the cost breaks down to roughly $100 per person—a reasonable price considering the exclusivity, personalized service, and inclusions like snorkeling gear, food, and drinks. For a private, all-inclusive experience along the glamorous French Riviera, this is a good value, especially if you’re looking for a luxurious, relaxed day at sea.
What’s Included and What to Bring
Included are snacks, appetizers, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboard, music, and even a GoPro camera for capturing memories. Fuel is also covered, ensuring no hidden costs during your trip.
What you’ll need to bring:
– Sunscreen (the sun can be strong even in summer)
– Beach towels (not included but useful)
– Swimwear and additional casual clothing
– A sense of adventure and willingness to relax
Meeting Point and Accessibility
The starting point is at Esplanade Pantiero, near public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers. The tour ends at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re after a peaceful escape on the water, away from crowds but with plenty of activities, this trip is perfect. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who want an exclusive, customizable experience. The small group size ensures intimacy and plenty of personal attention, making it ideal for those who appreciate a laid-back vibe combined with stunning scenery.
Travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and quality time at sea will find this tour really hits the mark. It’s also a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself to a day of luxury and tranquility along the glamorous Côte d’Azur.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 6 guests per boat, making it an intimate, private experience.
What is included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, paddleboard, snorkeling, GoPro, drinks, snacks, music, and fuel—all part of the all-inclusive package.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen and beach towels are recommended, as they are not included. Casual swimwear and sunglasses are also good ideas.
Are there options for different trip lengths?
Yes, you can choose between half-day, full-day, or sunset cruises, depending on your schedule.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s ideal for families looking for a relaxed day at sea.
What’s the best time to book?
Since tours are booked on average 29 days in advance, planning ahead ensures you get your preferred date, especially in summer.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Esplanade Pantiero in Cannes, close to public transportation.
Are meals included?
Snacks and appetizers are included, with optional seafood platters or pizzas available for delivery on board.
To sum it up, Yacht Me Up’s private Cannes-Lerins sail offers a perfect blend of luxury, intimacy, and authentic maritime charm. With experienced guides, stunning scenery, and flexible options, it’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting a peaceful yet engaging day at sea. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just craving a break from city life, this adventure promises a memorable escape along the French Riviera.
More Sailing Experiences in Cannes
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Cannes
More Tour Reviews in Cannes
- Ferry from Cannes to St Tropez
- Discover the Lérins Islands and the Bay of Cannes by Private Boat
- Ile Sainte-Marguerite Ferry & Corniche d’Or Cruise Combo from Cannes
- Taste Cannes A Full French Riviera Food Tour by Do Eat Better
- Half-day cruise / navigation to the Lerins Islands
- Cannes Shore Tour: Small Group Magic of Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze
More Cannes experiences we've covered
- Ferry from Cannes to St Tropez
- Discover the Lérins Islands and the Bay of Cannes by Private Boat
- Ile Sainte-Marguerite Ferry & Corniche d’Or Cruise Combo from Cannes
- Taste Cannes A Full French Riviera Food Tour by Do Eat Better
- Half-day cruise / navigation to the Lerins Islands
- Cannes Shore Tour: Small Group Magic of Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze
- Classic Yacht Sailing in Cannes
- St-Tropez Day Tour from Cannes Small-Group and Shore Excursion
- Guided Tour in Cannes by a Screenwriter: History, Glamour & Cinema
- Full-Day Private Custom-Made Cannes Shore Excursion
- Private escape to discover Cannes & Lerins islands from the sea
- Fascinating Cannes Private Walking Tour