Exclusive cruise, swimming, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Nice, Eze

A Personalized Half-Day Cruise Along the French Riviera: Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Nice, and Eze

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious yet authentic French Riviera experience, this private boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. For about four hours, you’ll hop aboard a well-maintained vessel called “Good Time” and explore some of the most stunning spots in the area—think turquoise waters, secluded coves, and glamorous villas overlooking the sea. The tour, led by the friendly duo Eric and Vincent, costs around $463.44 per person, making it a more intimate and tailored alternative to crowded public cruises.

What we really love about this experience is how personalized it feels. Not only do you get to choose your navigation route—whether cruising Beaulieu Bay, sailing past the historic Eze, or along the peninsula of Cap Ferrat—but you’ll also enjoy local delicacies like French aperitifs or pastries that are considered some of the best in the region. Secondly, the swimming stops are carefully selected to include hidden coves known only to locals, giving you a chance to dip into waters that feel almost secret.

One potential consideration: this tour is weather-dependent. If the weather turns sour, the trip may need rescheduling or could be canceled with a full refund. So, it’s best to plan at the start of your stay, when weather conditions are more predictable.

This experience suits travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and a touch of luxury—perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends and want to avoid overly commercialized tours. It’s ideal for those who appreciate involving local guides who know their way around the coast’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• Personalized Route: Choose your preferred navigation path along the French Riviera’s most scenic spots.
• Secluded Swimming Spots: Access to private coves often known only to locals, with options for snorkeling.
• Gourmet Treats: Includes a French aperitif or award-winning pastries and drinks, adding a special touch.
• Comfort & Convenience: Well-maintained boat with outdoor sun decks, hot shower, sound system, and bathroom.
• Weather Flexibility: Tours are weather-dependent, so planning at the start of your trip helps avoid disappointment.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, making it a more intimate adventure.

Exploring the French Riviera by Boat: A Practical and Enjoyable Guide

When considering a boat tour like this, it’s vital to understand what makes it special—and what might be a little less ideal—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

The Itinerary and What Makes It Unique

Starting from Port de Plaisance in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, you’ll board the boat with Eric and Vincent, two passionate locals who grew up exploring these waters. Their love for the sea shines through as they share intimate knowledge about the landscape, villas, and hidden spots along the coast.

You’ll typically cruise in Beaulieu Bay, famous for its peaceful waters and scenic views. The route can also include a visit to Eze, a hilltop village renowned for its medieval charm and spectacular vistas. Of course, no trip is complete without a cruise along the Cap Ferrat peninsula, home to some of the most luxurious villas overlooking the sea.

Swimming and Snorkeling — The Highlights

The stops are carefully curated for swimming and snorkeling. The first is an amazing cove, a local secret where you can dip into turquoise waters framed by maritime pines and cicadas singing in the background. The quiet nature of this spot makes it feel almost like your private pool, far from the crowds.

The second stop is in Villefranche Bay, a stunning harbor with a backdrop of the old town’s colorful buildings and a lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll have another opportunity for a swim, and snorkel gear is provided—so you might find starfish or other marine life. As one reviewer put it, “We found starfish, that was a big highlight for the kids.”

Food and Drinks: A French Touch

What sets this tour apart from many standard excursions is the inclusion of local French treats. A brunch with pastries from Lac or Messina, renowned pastry chefs, along with drinks and aperitifs, makes every sip and bite feel special. The sound system adds a relaxing vibe, whether you prefer peaceful background music or lively tunes.

Comfort and Safety

The boat itself is noted for being clean and well-laid out, featuring multiple outdoor spaces with sunbeds on the foredeck, flybridge, and rear deck. After swimming, there’s a hot shower for rinsing off, and safety gear, including life jackets and floating noodles, are on hand. Beach towels are available upon request, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Transport: The meeting point is in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat—just 8 km from Nice, accessible by bus or Uber. Parking in Cros dei Pin is available with a ticket, about 100 meters from the boat.
• Timing: The tour begins at 9 am, so it’s best to book early in your trip to avoid weather cancellations. Remember, bad weather leads to rescheduling or refunds.
• Group size: The tour is private, meaning only your group will be on board, allowing for flexibility and a personalized experience.
• Cost: While the per-person price might seem high, it includes gourmet food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and exclusive access to private coves, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a relaxed, high-quality experience.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as the main draws—”The crew are fantastic and the charcuterie board was delish” sums up the quality of hospitality. Considering the price, many travelers feel they receive excellent value for a private, curated experience that combines scenic beauty with local flavors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized day on the water—great for families, couples, or small groups. If you value authentic local insights, hidden swimming spots, and delicious regional food, you’ll find this tour very satisfying. It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer large group excursions—this is a more intimate and premium offering.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour along the French Riviera offers a perfect blend of scenic cruising, authentic local flavors, and private comfort. It’s a wonderful way to see the coast from a relaxed perspective, especially if you enjoy swimming in secluded coves, sampling regional treats, and having guides who genuinely love their corner of France.

While weather can be a factor, planning at the start of your trip can help you maximize your chances of enjoying this experience. The price, though on the higher side, reflects the personalized service and quality amenities, making it worth considering if you want a more intimate, luxury-style adventure.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and authentic French Riviera experience that feels tailored just for you, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s best suited for those who appreciate comfort, gastronomy, and insider knowledge—leaving you with memories of turquoise waters, stunning vistas, and French delights.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a cruise along scenic spots, swimming stops, snorkeling gear, a French aperitif or pastries, drinks, and access to outdoor sun decks with sunbeds. The boat has a bathroom and hot shower.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Port de Plaisance in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. It’s easy to reach from Nice by bus or Uber.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group participates, which means you’ll have a more flexible and personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel (if desired), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The boat provides masks and snorkel gear, and beach towels are available on request.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What if I want to customize my route?
You can choose your navigation route, with options including Beaulieu Bay, Eze, and Cap Ferrat.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers, but the exact number isn’t specified here. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

Are there group discounts?
Group discounts are available, making it more attractive for families or small groups traveling together.

How much does this tour cost?
The cost is around $463.44 per person, which covers most amenities and gourmet treats, reflecting its focus on quality and intimacy.

This private cruise along the French Riviera promises a day of luxury, discovery, and relaxation—perfect for those who want to see the coast from a different perspective, with the comfort of knowing they’re in capable, passionate hands.