Catamaran from Cannes

A Closer Look at the Catamaran from Cannes Experience

Imagine gliding over the shimmering waters of the French Riviera on a sleek, spacious catamaran for about three hours. Starting from Cannes, this cruise offers a wonderful chance to relax, take in spectacular views, and enjoy some fun water sports or a delicious meal. Prices hover around $102 per person, which, considering the scenic locations and onboard amenities, can be quite good value. Whether you’re after a half-day escape or a full-day adventure, this tour caters to a variety of tastes.

What we especially like about this cruise are two things: First, the stunning vistas of the coastline and the Lérins Islands are a photographer’s delight, and second, the provision of water sports gear like kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment really enhances the experience. Plus, the option to upgrade with a gourmet buffet lunch makes it more than just a boat ride; it’s a mini luxury escape.

A possible consideration is the crowd factor—some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, especially during full-day trips or peak seasons. Also, the lack of onboard food and drinks included in the base price means you’ll need to bring cash for extras, which might be inconvenient for some travelers expecting everything to be included.

This tour suits anyone who loves the water, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially well-made for travelers who want a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and sunbathing without fussing over transportation or complicated schedules.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of the French Riviera and Bay of Cannes.
• Water Sports: Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear are available for added fun.
• Flexible Options: Choose from half-day, half-day with lunch, or full-day cruises.
• Onboard Amenities: Enjoy a selection of drinks, and upgrade to a gourmet buffet lunch.
• Crowd Consideration: Can get busy, especially on longer trips or during peak season.
• Cash Required: No credit card payments onboard—be prepared with cash for extras.

The Details of the Cruise: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting at 20 Quai Saint-Pierre, the cruise departs from the lively port of Cannes. From there, the experience varies depending on your chosen option, but all routes promise stunning coastal views. The most popular choice seems to be the half-day cruise, which takes you toward the Lérins Islands—a pair of lush, uninhabited islands known for their tranquil beauty and historic fortress.

One of the highlights, as many reviews mention, is the chance to stop for swimming and snorkeling. The boat anchors in a calm, scenic spot, where you can cool off in the clear waters. Many reviewers, like Ashley, described it as a “perfect day on the water,” noting the friendly crew and the inviting atmosphere that made the trip more than just sightseeing.

If you opt for the half-day cruise with lunch, you’ll enjoy a gourmet buffet that seems to pleasantly surprise many travelers, with comments like “Lunch was better than I expected” echoing through reviews. The meal includes wine, orange juice, or mineral water, and the buffet typically features a variety of fresh, tasty options—though dietary restrictions aren’t accommodated.

The full-day cruise extends your time on the water, taking you further along the coast, past the Massif de l’Esterel mountain range, and into more secluded coves. This longer trip allows for more swimming, paddling, and relaxing, making it ideal if you want to maximize your time on the sea.

The water sports gear—kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment—are free to use (weather permitting). Several travelers mention how much they appreciated these options: “Everyone took turns using the equipment,” as one reviewer noted, and some found the snorkeling was a bit disappointing because of depths and water conditions. It’s worth noting that snorkeling is technically included, but some found the depth too deep to see much—so don’t count on a full underwater spectacle.

The crew, often described as friendly and helpful, can make or break the trip. We’ve seen reviews praising guides like Jana, who loves the “beautiful scenery” and the clean, spacious boat. Conversely, a few reviews mention rudeness or crowded conditions—a reminder that during peak times, the boat might feel a bit cramped.

Another consideration is cost. At just over $100, many see this as a good-value way to experience the Riviera, especially given the water sports and scenic stops included. However, since food and drinks (other than the buffet if purchased) are not included in the base price, you’ll want to bring cash for on-board purchases—something to keep in mind to avoid surprises.

In terms of duration, the three-hour trip strikes a balance, offering enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Riviera’s beauty, the half-day is perfect. For those wanting more, the full-day cruise provides ample opportunity to savor the coastline, swim in secluded spots, and soak up the sun.

The Itinerary: A Sum of Its Parts

Starting Point: The boat departs from 20 Quai Saint-Pierre, a convenient location near Cannes’ central harbor. Many reviews note that getting there is straightforward either by public transport or walking from central Cannes.

Morning stop at the Lérins Islands: Expect the boat to moor between these islands, renowned for their peaceful landscapes and historical sites. Ashley describes it as a “perfect day on the water,” with a nice mix of sailing and relaxing.

Water activities in the designated stop: Swimmers and snorkelers can enjoy the clear waters, while paddlers and kayakers are encouraged to explore. This makes the experience interactive and engaging, especially for families or groups of friends.

Lunch options: For those who upgrade, a gourmet buffet is served onboard. Reviews suggest the meal is plentiful and better than expected, with drinks included (for lunch bookings) and a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

Extended sailing: The full-day option takes you past the Massif de l’Esterel mountain range, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs and secluded coves, a highlight for nature lovers.

Return: The cruise concludes back at the starting point, with reviews mentioning that the entire experience feels well-paced and thoughtfully organized.

Authentic Experiences from Real Travelers

Several reviews provide colorful insights into what you can expect. For example, Jana loved being “on the water, taking in the views,” and described the boat as “very clean and spacious.” Bjarney enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere and the opportunities for swimming and paddleboarding.

On the flip side, some travelers highlight less positive experiences. Shadabi pointed out that during rough seas, the boat ventured far out, and the lunch buffet was lacking—a reminder that weather and expectations can influence how much you enjoy the trip.

One reviewer, William, had a very different experience, describing the crew as rude and the sailing time as nonexistent. This underscores the importance of managing expectations and possibly choosing a full-day trip for a more relaxed experience.

Another common theme is crowded conditions—some found the boat too full during the half-day trips or when multiple boats depart simultaneously. Arriving early to secure a good spot or seat at the front might be a smart move.

The Practical Side: Costs, Parking, and Planning

At $102 per person, this cruise offers good value for a scenic, water-based excursion. The onboard bar offers drinks for cash only—so bring some euros to sip on a glass of wine or orange juice while enjoying the views.

Parking and meeting point: The activity starts at 20 Quai Saint-Pierre, which is near public transportation and walking distance from many accommodations. Be prepared for some slight confusion during busy times, as multiple boats operate from similar points, but the instructions and signage are generally clear.

Weather considerations: The trip is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rough seas or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, making it relatively low risk.

Age restrictions: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but the minimum age to drink alcohol is 18. No specific dietary restrictions are accommodated, so be cautious if you have particular food needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers looking to combine scenic beauty with a relaxed, fun atmosphere. If you enjoy being on the water, want to see the iconic Côte d’Azur, and like the idea of stopping for swimming and water sports, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who value friendly staff and good onboard amenities.

Families, couples, or groups of friends will find the casual vibe and social environment welcoming. However, if you’re seeking a luxury experience with gourmet dining onboard or an exclusive, uncrowded setting, this might not meet your expectations. Some reviews mention crowded conditions or limited food options, so manage your expectations accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Catamaran from Cannes offers a terrific way to see the Riviera’s coastline from the water, with a good balance of sightseeing, water activities, and optional dining. The stunning scenery, friendly crew, and flexible options make it a great choice for travelers wanting a laid-back day on the sea. While it’s not perfect—crowds and limited food included—most guests leave with memorable photos and stories to tell.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and reasonably priced way to experience Cannes and its surroundings, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially good if you enjoy water sports, relaxing in the sun, and enjoying the views without overcomplicating your day.

For those willing to bring cash, manage expectations about crowds, and love being on the water, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip to the French Riviera.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about three hours, offering enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What are the options available?
You can choose a half-day cruise, a half-day with lunch, or a full-day trip. The longer options include more scenic sights and water stops.

Is food included?
Basic drinks are available for cash, but food and drinks are not included unless you upgrade to the buffet lunch. The buffet is described as tasty and plentiful by many travelers.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, onboard purchases like drinks and extra water sports gear are cash only. Be sure to bring euros or your preferred currency.

Can I do water sports?
Yes, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear are available to use—weather permitting. Many reviews note how enjoyable these added activities are.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers find it suitable for families, but check age restrictions for alcohol or water activities depending on your children’s ages.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Casual, comfortable clothing is best for spending time on deck or swimming.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is 20 Quai Saint-Pierre in Cannes. Arrive early to find the right boat, especially during busy times.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic getaway, a chance to swim in the Mediterranean, or just a relaxing day on the water, this Cannes catamaran cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the coast. With its beautiful vistas and friendly atmosphere, it’s a day you’ll likely remember fondly—just bring your cash, some patience, and a love of the sea.