Frejus Saint-Raphael isn’t just about sunbathing on sandy beaches or wandering through charming streets; it’s also a fantastic place to explore by boat. The South of France offers a stunning coastline filled with hidden coves, volcanic rock formations, and turquoise waters that are best appreciated from the water. Whether you’re after a quick sightseeing cruise, a snorkeling adventure, or a relaxing afternoon with drinks, there’s a boat trip tailored for you.
One of our favorites is the Esterel Calanques Cruise because it combines scenic views with a swim stop in a wild creek—perfect for cooling off and enjoying nature’s simplicity. For a more social experience, the Golden Island Afternoon Cruise offers drinks and water toys, turning a cruise into a lively escape. If snorkeling is your thing, the Guided snorkeling trip from Agay provides an intimate look at marine life with all gear included.
Below, we’ve broken down these top options so you can find exactly what fits your style and schedule.
1. Fréjus : Esterel Calanques Cruise (Comfort Boat) + Swim Stop
This 2.5-hour cruise takes you from Fréjus along the stunning Esterel coastline, renowned for its red volcanic cliffs. The boat itself is comfortable, and the small group setting ensures you get plenty of attention from the captain, who offers a guided tour highlighting local landmarks and geology.
What makes this trip stand out is the swimming stop in a remote creek, away from crowds—ideal for cooling off and enjoying the clear waters. The route includes secluded coves and caves, some inaccessible to larger boats, which makes this tour special. Reviews give it a high rating of 4.7/5, with many mentioning the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery. One traveler noted, “Superb boat, passionate captain, and quiet swimming spots”—a great choice if you want a relaxed yet adventurous experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a shorter, scenic cruise with a swim in wild waters and a small-group vibe. It’s great value at $76 per person.
2. Saint-Raphaël: Golden Island Afternoon Cruise with Drinks
Spanning roughly four hours, this Afternoon Cruise offers a leisurely way to enjoy the coast. The journey includes a stop at the Golden Island, a rocky outcrop famous for its connection to Tintin’s adventures.
Onboard, you can enjoy stand-up paddles and other water toys, making it more than just floating around. The included aperitif and drinks turn this cruise into a social event, perfect for relaxing with friends or family. The route takes you along the scenic red cliffs of the Esterel Massif and the coastline, providing plenty of photo opportunities. With a 4.6/5 rating from over 300 reviews, it’s clear people love the relaxed vibe and scenic stops. One review mentions, “The perfect way to unwind with a drink and enjoy the coastline in peace.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a combination of sightseeing, water fun, and a leisurely atmosphere — slightly longer than others at four hours, but well worth it.
3. Boat tour from Fréjus – Calanques Esterel – 2h30
For around $63, this 3-hour guided boat tour from Fréjus takes you through some of the most captivating sights of the Esterel coast. Departing from the port, you’ll cruise past the Lion de Terre and Lion de Mer, small islands near Boulouris, and glide along the Bay of Agay. The route covers Cap Dramont, Ile d’Or, and the calanques of Anthéor—all scenery with a rich geological and natural beauty.
What sets this trip apart is its detailed narration—covering fauna, flora, geology, and history—which is perfect for travelers wanting more than just pretty views. The boat can access caves and coves that larger boats can’t reach, and there’s a swimming break in a protected cove. Passengers praised the comfortable boat and lively commentary, with one noting, “The crew was friendly, and the scenery breathtaking.” The boat’s maneuvering near caves and secret coves offers an intimate experience of the coastline.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for travelers seeking an engaging, approximately 3-hour tour with access to inaccessible spots and good narration.
4. Agay: Guided snorkeling trip by boat in the Estérel calanques
If snorkeling is your passion, this 1.5-2 hour trip is hard to beat. The tour departs from Agay and takes you to the volcanic coves of the Esterel, where you can observe fish, Posidonia seagrass beds, and underwater rock formations. The small group limit of 12 ensures an intimate experience with your guide, a local expert passionate about Mediterranean flora and fauna.
All equipment, including wetsuits, fins, masks, and snorkels, are provided, making it easy to hop in the water. The itinerary includes two snorkeling sessions, with a snack break on board overlooking the cliffs. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5/5, and one reviewer called it “a family-friendly adventure with incredible underwater sights.” The guided aspect ensures you learn about the marine ecosystem, making it a good choice for curious travelers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for snorkelers of all levels, especially families or those wanting an exclusive, small-group experience in unspoiled coves.
5. Saint-Raphaël: Boat cruise & swimming in the coves of the Esterel
This short, 1.5 to 2-hour cruise offers a more relaxed, educational trip. Starting from Saint-Raphaël, you’ll sail through Calanque de l’Esterel, with opportunities to view marine life and snorkel in clear waters. The focus here is on biodiversity and environmental education, making it ideal for families or travelers wanting a meaningful experience.
You’ll have a chance to discover marine species and learn about the local ecosystem in a casual setting. The trip includes a snack on board and panoramic views as you cruise back. With a perfect 5/5 review rating from two reviews, it’s clear people appreciate its intimate and educational approach. One review mentioned how the trip was “educational and fun, with beautiful scenery and lots of marine life to see.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in ecology and marine biodiversity, with a flexible, short itinerary for a quick, enriching outing.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour
When selecting a boat trip in Frejus Saint-Raphael, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after a quick scenic cruise with a swim, the Esterel Calanques Cruise offers great value. For a longer, relaxed afternoon with drinks and paddling, the Golden Island Cruise is ideal. Snorkeling enthusiasts should prioritize the Snorkeling trip from Agay, especially if you want an intimate experience with marine life.
Keep in mind seasonal weather, as summer months tend to be most popular, and booking early is wise for these smaller, popular tours. For those interested in geology and history, the Guided tour from Fréjus provides enriching narration along with access to caves and caves.
In summary, Frejus Saint-Raphael offers a diverse range of boat tours that cater to different interests—from scenic calanque cruises to snorkeling adventures and educational eco-tours. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a leisurely day on the water, these options provide a wonderful way to experience the stunning coastline of the South of France. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, and choose the one that best fits your travel style. Happy sailing!