Cannes Private Boat Tour to the Lerins Islands: Relax & Cruise
Searching for a perfect mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure? This private boat tour from Cannes to the Lerins Islands might just be your ideal escape. For about four hours, you’ll glide across the sparkling waters aboard a sleek American dayboat, with a skipper at the helm who knows the area inside-out. With up to nine friends or family members, this trip offers a chance to explore two distinct islands—each with its own charm—while enjoying swimming, snorkeling, and stunning vistas along the way. The price is around $581.55 per group, making it a surprisingly good value for a private experience that feels both exclusive and personal.
What we love most about this tour? First, the flexibility — whether you want to paddleboard, dip into the water, or just lounge in the sun, the boat is equipped with sunbeds, a shade, and all the gear you might need. Second, the expert guidance and friendly atmosphere — reviews frequently mention how the skippers are knowledgeable, helpful, and make the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.
One small consideration? The additional costs — if you’d like the skipper to stay longer or add extras like a Seabob, expect to pay extra. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s ideal for those who love a personalized, intimate experience rather than a big group.
This boat trip suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day at sea, whether you’re a couple, a family with kids, or a group of friends wanting to explore the Côte d’Azur from the water. If you’re after a mix of comfort, fun, and a touch of local history, this could be your next highlight.
Key Points
- Private and intimate experience ideal for small groups up to 9 people
- Includes snorkeling gear, paddleboard, floaties, and a complimentary bottle of wine
- Stops at Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat islands, with options for swimming and exploring
- Skipper-led tour ensures safety, local knowledge, and a stress-free day
- Optional extras like lunch or Seabob available for an additional fee
- Reviews highlight friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and fun water activities
An Authentic Day at Sea with Stunning Views
Imagine gliding smoothly across the azure waters of the French Riviera with the sun warming your face. That’s exactly what this private boat tour promises. We found it to be a wonderfully balanced experience—combining comfort, adventure, and authentic scenic beauty. The port of Cannes, just across from the Lérins Islands, serves as a picturesque launching point, and the boat itself is described as a beautiful American dayboat designed for comfort and easy cruising.
Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize how the boat’s features enhance the experience. There are rear benches with removable tables for picnics or drinks, sunbeds at the front and rear to soak up the sun, and a bimini shade for those who prefer a little respite from the rays. An outdoor shower, sink, and swim ladder make swimming and rinsing off effortless, while the bluetooth sound system adds a fun playlist to your day at sea.
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The Itinerary: Two Islands, Two Different Experiences
The tour is thoughtfully divided into two main stops—each offering something unique. First, you’ll head to Sainte-Marguerite Island, a natural oasis that’s a protected habitat for various species. This island is also home to the famous Fort Royal, listed as a historic monument, where the Man in the Iron Mask was held — a detail that adds a little intrigue for history buffs. Reviewing the trip, one guest shared how they appreciated the opportunity to see this landmark firsthand, describing it as a highlight.
Next, the focus shifts to snorkeling and underwater exploration. Between the islands, you’ll descend into turquoise waters to discover the underwater eco-museum, a collection of six submerged statues. This activity is a hit according to reviews, with many emphasizing how the snorkeling gear and floaties made the experience accessible and fun, even for beginners.
The Water Activities and Comforts
What truly sets this tour apart is the suite of activities available. Snorkeling near the underwater statues is a major favorite, with travelers praising the clarity of the water and the novelty of the eco-museum. Paddleboarding is also included, providing a relaxed way to explore at your own pace. Plus, the availability of floaties and water toys makes it perfect for families with kids or anyone looking to add some fun to their day.
The tour’s skipper (extra €300 if you opt for their assistance) is consistently lauded for being friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. Several reviews mentioned captains like Rodolphe, Paulo, or Raffa, highlighting their helpfulness and local insights. Their expertise means you can relax, knowing you’re in safe hands and gaining some fascinating facts about the area.
Food, Drinks, and Extras
Bottled water and complimentary wine come with the tour, allowing you to sip and relax as you cruise. If you fancy a meal, there’s an optional lunch stop on the island, or you can choose to stay aboard and enjoy snacks and drinks. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, extras like the Seabob (a seascooter, for €150) are available, adding a dash of adrenaline — though this does come with extra costs.
Practical Details
The tour departs from Albatros, 100 Bd de la Croisette in Cannes, and the activity is booked via mobile ticket, making it straightforward to plan. The private nature of the trip means only your group participates, making it ideal for intimate celebrations or family outings. It’s suitable for most travelers, with reviews emphasizing how accessible and easy-going the experience is, even for kids.
While the price might seem steep at first glance, you’re paying for exclusive use of a private boat, personalized service, and access to beautiful, less-visited spots. The four-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to relax, swim, and explore, without feeling rushed.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who value personalized service and flexibility. If you enjoy water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. It’s perfect for families with children, couples celebrating a special occasion, or friends looking for a fun day out on the water. The positive reviews about guides and the stunning scenery make it a reliable choice for those who want a relaxing yet engaging day on the Côte d’Azur.
If you’re someone who appreciates local history and nature, the stops at Sainte-Marguerite will be memorable. And if you’re a wine lover, the complimentary wine adds a nice touch, making the experience feel even more special.
Final Thoughts on Value and Experience
The Cannes Private Boat Tour to the Lerins Islands offers a great combination of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty. While it might seem pricey upfront, the private setting and all-inclusive water gear make it a good value for those wanting a customized day at sea. The chance to swim near underwater sculptures, explore two contrasting islands, and enjoy the expert guidance of friendly skippers makes it stand out.
This tour is most appealing for those wanting a laid-back, scenic escape with a touch of history and nature. It’s perfect if you’re looking to avoid large crowds and prefer a personalized experience—and most reviewers agree they left with great memories and a smile.
FAQ
Is this tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, giving you a personalized experience.
How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat seats up to nine guests, making it ideal for small groups or families.
What is included in the price?
Bottled water, a complimentary bottle of wine, snorkeling gear, floaties, and fuel surcharge are included. The boat also features sunbeds, a shade, outdoor shower, and sound system.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, if you’d like the skipper to stay longer or add extras like a Seabob, expect to pay an extra €300 for the skipper and €150 for the Seabob.
What about food and drinks?
Bottled water and wine are included, but you can also bring your own drinks or purchase optional snacks. There is an optional lunch stop available on the island.
How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, giving enough time to explore and enjoy activities without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Albatros, 100 Bd de la Croisette in Cannes.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention how families with kids enjoyed the water toys and calm waters, making it family-friendly.
What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In the end, this private boat trip to the Lerins Islands offers an excellent mix of scenic beauty, water fun, and personalized service. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving a luxurious day out on the water, it’s a memorable way to experience the Côte d’Azur from a different perspective.
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