Excursion bateau

This experience made our article of Which Saint Tropez Tours To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best.

Overview of the Excursion Bateau Experience

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet enriching way to see Saint Tropez and its beautiful surroundings, this 2.5-hour boat trip offered by Seaboat Saint Tropez might just be perfect. Departing from the Port des Marines de Cogolin, the tour is capped at 10 participants, ensuring you’ll enjoy a more intimate, less crowded experience. For around $81 per person, you get a chance to see the famous village from the water, explore breathtaking scenery, and perhaps even take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Salins Beach.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention you get with a small group and the expert guidance that enhances your understanding of the area’s highlights. The boat, a semi-rigid vessel with capacity for just 10, offers a more lively and dynamic ride than larger tours, making every wave and change of scenery feel more immediate. Plus, the chance to swim directly from the boat in Salins’s turquoise waters is an unbeatable highlight.

A potential consideration is that the tour is only 2.5 hours, which might leave travelers craving more time to explore or linger at each stop. Also, since it’s a non-refundable ticket, planning ahead is advisable if you’re certain about your schedule.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, want authentic views of Saint Tropez from the sea, and appreciate a mix of sightseeing and swimming. Ideal for those who love flexible, intimate outings rather than large, crowded excursions.

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Key Points

Small Group Size: Limited to 10 people for a more personal and engaging experience.
Stunning Views: Perfect for photography lovers wanting iconic vistas of Saint Tropez.
Swimming Opportunities: Direct access to Salins Beach’s clear waters.
Expert Guidance: Tour guides, like Johan, offer insightful explanations, often in English.
Authentic Experience: Discover local spots like Le Canoubiers and the Brigitte Bardot residence by sea.
Value for Money: At $81, it offers a memorable marine adventure with included captain service and visit to key areas.

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A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Port des Marines de Cogolin, a convenient departure point for those staying in the region or visiting nearby. Arriving 15 minutes early is advised to settle in and get comfortable, especially since this is a small-group tour where every minute counts.

The meeting point is at the Ponton d’accueil capitainerie, and the boat itself is a semi-rigid vessel suitable for a maximum of 10 guests. This smaller size means fewer crowds, more space on deck, and a chance to chat with your guide. Since the boat isn’t very large, you’ll likely feel the waves more intensely, which enhances the sense of adventure but might be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or uncomfortable in choppy waters.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, providing a well-paced experience with several notable stops. After departure, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of Saint Tropez itself, spying the iconic village from the sea, which many find more impressive than any photo.

One special highlight is the stop in front of Le Canoubiers, home to the famous Brigitte Bardot residence. The guide will share stories and insights about the stars and the history of this glamorous area—adding a touch of Hollywood magic to your trip.

Next, the boat sails to the Salins Beach, a truly sublime stretch of sand with turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim freely—a highlight that travelers like Johan from the Netherlands appreciated, remarking, “We saw a lot of the surroundings and had time to swim. Since the boat isn’t that big, you experience it much more intensely.”

The final leg takes you along the coast, offering scenic views of the Var coastline, before returning to your departure point. The incredible landscape includes rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and inviting beaches, all viewed from a unique perspective.

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The Experience on Board

The small size of the vessel allows for a more lively and interactive experience. The guide, speaking French but often capable of explaining in English, provides context about each stop and the local area, making the tour both scenic and educational.

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the personal attention they received. As Monique from France put it, “It was a great time,” highlighting how simple yet effective the trip was for enjoying the area’s beauty.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes the boat, a captain, and water—simple but sufficient for the trip’s scope. However, swimming equipment is not included, so if you want to stay in the water longer or need gear, you’ll need to bring your own.

Practical Tips

Bring a towel and beachwear, as you’ll want to take advantage of the swim stop. Since the tour is non-refundable, plan carefully and arrive early. Also, note that children under 4 years, pregnant women, and individuals with back problems are not advised to join, primarily due to safety and comfort considerations.

The Value of This Marine Experience

At $81 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a memorable half-day out. The small group size and personalized approach mean you’re not just another face on a crowded boat but part of an intimate adventure. The scenic views, combined with the swimming opportunity and insider stories, create a well-rounded experience that’s worth the price.

Travelers like those from Germany and France have found it worthwhile and fun, especially appreciating the guides’ friendly and informative manner. The opportunity to enjoy the sea’s beauty up close and see St. Tropez from a different angle adds a special touch that larger, more generic tours can’t match.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion suits adventurous travelers who enjoy small groups and personal attention. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to explore the coast. If you love picture-perfect scenery, swimming in pristine waters, and learning local stories from knowledgeable guides, this tour will fit you well.

It’s less ideal for those with limited mobility, very young children, or anyone who prefers a longer, more comprehensive tour. But if you’re looking for a brief, scenic escape with a personal touch, this boat trip checks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing a good balance of sightseeing and swimming.

Where does the tour start?
From Port des Marines de Cogolin, at the Ponton d’accueil capitainerie.

What is included in the price?
The boat, captain, and water are included. Swim equipment is not.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to swim at Salins Beach after the boat stops there.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years, mainly due to safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear to enjoy swimming comfortably.

Is the tour flexible?
You can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it a guided experience?
Yes, a live French-speaking guide will share insights and details about the sights.

What if my plans change?
Since tickets are non-refundable, it’s best to confirm your schedule before booking.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving an up-close view of Saint Tropez from the water, this small-group boat trip offers a blend of scenic beauty, local stories, and swimming fun. It’s a flexible, affordable way to add a maritime flavor to your South of France itinerary.

The personalized attention and authentic experience make it stand out among many larger tours. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family wanting a relaxed adventure, or friends eager for a scenic escape, you’ll find this boat trip delivers plenty of memorable moments.

In the end, what makes this excursion special is the chance to see the coast from a different perspective and connect with the area’s natural beauty in an intimate, lively setting. It’s a worthwhile choice for those who value authenticity, value, and a touch of adventure in their travels.