Boat Excursion – Nice/St Jean Cap Ferrat 1H30

Explore the French Riviera from the Water: Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in 1.5 Hours

Imagine gliding along the shimmering coastline of the French Riviera as the sun dips toward the horizon. This boat excursion from Nice offers just that—an approximately 90-minute guided cruise with a small group of 12 guests, led by a friendly local captain. For a reasonable $63.38 per person, you’ll get a chance to see iconic sights, breathe in the sea air, and maybe even take a quick swim or snorkel in the crystalline waters at La Fossette Bay.

We love that this tour keeps all the fuss out of the way—small group intimacy, personalized guidance, and the chance to enjoy spectacular sunset views without the crowds. The inclusion of bottled water and the loan of life jackets makes it a straightforward, relaxing outing. A possible downside? The tour’s focus on sunset means it’s limited in time and doesn’t include meals or snorkeling gear, so plan your outfit and gear accordingly.

This experience suits those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape from busy city life, perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a different perspective on the Côte d’Azur. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy stunning coastal scenery, a relaxed vibe, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Only 12 travelers ensure a personal vibe and more time with the captain.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: See Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat from a unique vantage point.
• Sunset Magic: Watch the sun set over the sea, creating picture-perfect moments.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Stop at La Fossette Bay for a refreshing dip, bringing your own gear.
• Guided by Locals: The captain’s local knowledge enhances your understanding of the area.
• Weather-Dependent: The trip can be shortened or canceled if weather conditions aren’t safe.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

Board your boat from 51 Quai Entrecasteaux in Nice, a lively area beside the famous Port of Nice. Arriving 30 minutes early is strongly advised; the captain needs time to prepare and gather everyone. The cruise lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, a perfect length for a relaxed evening without feeling rushed.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Port of Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer

Your journey begins along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, where you can enjoy views of the bustling shoreline and the cityscape. The captain then guides you toward Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming fishing village famous for its colorful boats, narrow streets, and vivid harbor. This stretch gives you a chance to see a lively coastal scene, framed by rugged hills and lush greenery.

Second Stop: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The highlight is undoubtedly reaching Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a peninsula renowned for its green, pristine landscapes and luxurious villas. From the boat, you’ll see crystal-clear coves, hidden beaches, and the emblematic umbrella pines that make this area so distinctive. Many reviews note its star-studded reputation and film industry ties, adding a touch of glamour to the scenery.

Swim and Snorkel Stop at La Fossette Bay

One of the tour’s best features is a stop near La Fossette Bay, where the water is quiet, clear, and inviting. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own snorkeling gear to explore underwater life, with the boat providing bottled water and safety equipment. Some reviews mention the joy of jumping into the sea and swimming around, making it a refreshing break from sightseeing.

What the Tour Offers

Stunning Sunset Views

The main draw is watching the sun set over the sea, casting warm hues over the coastline. As you cruise, the sky turns a palette of oranges and pinks, and the water reflects the changing light—truly a photographer’s dream.

Personalized and Quiet

With only 12 seats, the boat feels cozy and relaxed. We loved the intimate environment, which allows for easier conversation with the captain and fellow travelers. This is a rare opportunity to experience the coast without the noise and commotion of larger tours.

Guidance and Local Knowledge

The captain isn’t just steering—you’ll appreciate the local insights into the area’s history, villas, and natural features. Some reviews highlight how the guide’s friendliness makes the experience more engaging, although others mention that more area information would be appreciated.

What’s Not Included

• Snorkeling equipment (masks and snorkels) are not provided, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.
• Food and drinks are also not on board—consider bringing snacks or a small picnic if you wish to extend your enjoyment.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: Since the tour depends on good weather, it may be canceled or shortened if conditions are poor.
• Group Size and Cost: At just over $63 per person, the value lies in the personalized experience and stunning scenery—you’re paying for quality over quantity.
• Age Restrictions and Accessibility: Children under 4 and pets aren’t allowed; those with reduced mobility might find it challenging.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Among the reviews, many travelers praise the friendly captain, the beautiful scenery, and the fun swimming stop. One customer said, “Great boat trip. A lot of fun. Stunning views. Our captain was very friendly and skilful on the waves,” capturing the relaxed yet scenic nature of the tour.

Others noted some room for improvement—more friendly interaction or clearer meeting instructions. A review from April expressed that the guide could have been a bit friendlier and suggested having a visible sign for meeting points. The company responded positively, showing they’re attentive to guest feedback.

Experienced travelers also appreciated the quiet, clear swimming spot, with one reviewer calling it “a quiet, beautiful location,” perfect for a peaceful swim.

Why This Tour Works for You

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of luxury and local flavor. If you enjoy beautiful coastal vistas, sunset magic, and the chance to swim in calm waters, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for small groups, couples, or friends who want to avoid large, commercial tours and prefer a more personal experience.

However, if you’re keen on snorkeling or meals, you’ll need to bring your own gear and plan accordingly, as these aren’t included. The weather factor also means you should be flexible with your schedule.

FAQs

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Arriving about 30 minutes before departure is recommended to avoid missing the boat, as no refunds are offered for late arrivals.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you should bring your own masks and snorkels if you want to enjoy underwater exploration during the stop at La Fossette Bay.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 are not allowed, and minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. It’s not recommended for those with reduced mobility.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour company reserves the right to cancel or shorten the trip if weather conditions are unsafe. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, snacks and food are not provided. Bottled water is included, but you may wish to bring your own small refreshments.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at 51 Quai Entrecasteaux is near public transportation options, making it easy to reach from most parts of Nice.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for a boat ride. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater.

Final Thoughts

This sunset boat cruise offers a rare chance to see the French Riviera’s coast from the water in a relaxed, intimate environment. You’ll love the stunning views, the personalized guidance from a local captain, and the refreshing swim stop. It’s a wonderful way to add a splash of luxury and natural beauty to your stay in Nice, especially if you’re a fan of scenic, quiet moments away from crowds.

While it’s carefully designed for small groups and personal experience, keep in mind the weather dependency and the lack of included snorkeling gear or meals. For those seeking a peaceful, picturesque, and personal coastal escape, this tour delivers on those promises with a friendly touch.

If you’re after a memorable, sunset-filled adventure that combines coastal scenery, a dash of fun in the water, and local charm, this is a trip worth considering—especially if you book well in advance to secure your spot.