Private sailing excursion & Provencal picnic

Discover Cannes From the Water: Private Sailing & Provencal Picnic

Imagine gliding along the sunny coast of Cannes on a charming vintage sailboat, feeling the gentle breeze while exploring the scenic Lérins Islands. This private sailing excursion offers a peaceful escape with personalized touches, including a delicious Provencal picnic and opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. For around $130.55 per person, you’ll spend approximately 5 to 6 hours soaking up the beauty of the Côte d’Azur from this intimate, handcrafted boat.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to participate actively in sailing — whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious beginner — and the home-cooked lunch featuring fresh vegetables, anchovies, tzatziki, and rosé. Also, the boat’s friendly, knowledgeable guide makes this trip not just a cruise, but a true slice of authentic French Riviera life.

One consideration? If you’re seasick or sensitive to wind, this trip’s sailing element might be unpredictable, especially if the breeze isn’t cooperating. But overall, this experience suits travelers who love a mix of relaxation, adventure, and personal attention — perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a more intimate look at Cannes’ coastal gems.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group on a vintage sailboat, ensuring personalized service.
• Active participation: Opportunity to help with sailing maneuvers for a more engaging experience.
• Authentic picnic: Homemade Provencal dishes and rosé in a scenic setting.
• Snorkeling included: Masks and towels provided, with options to explore the underwater world.
• Flexible itinerary: Customizable stops, including swimming, island exploration, and relaxing on deck.
• Ideal for: Romantic getaways, small groups, or anyone wanting a hands-on sailing adventure with local flavor.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing & Picnicking Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at the Esplanade Pantiero in Cannes, a convenient location close to public transportation and central to the city’s lively atmosphere. The trip lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy. The private nature means your group won’t be mixed with strangers, which elevates the experience for couples or friends seeking intimacy and flexibility.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Port de Cannes, Jetée Albert Edouard marks the starting point, where you’ll board the restored vintage Jeanneau Sangria sailboat. From there, the journey takes you across the bay toward the Lérins Islands, with Sainte-Marguerite as the main destination.

The boat trip itself is a delight. As noted in reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly — with Maxime, the guide mentioned, making guests feel at home on his boat, Mambo 2. Travelers love the way Maxime offers a personalized experience, tailoring stops to suit your preferences. If you want to sail, snorkel, or simply relax, the crew is happy to accommodate.

Sainte-Marguerite Island: The Jewel of the Tour

Once on Sainte-Marguerite, you’ll have about four hours to explore and enjoy. The island features a serene eco-museum with free snorkeling masks included, giving you an easy way to dip below the surface and discover the seabed. Reviewers appreciated the friendly and relaxed atmosphere; one remarked, “It was incredible to be just us and the guide, with a home-cooked lunch and plenty of time in the water.”

Guests can stroll around the island, soaking in the natural beauty and spotting local flora. The snorkeling activity gets high marks, with many praising the clear waters and good equipment. The opportunity to swim twice and explore the underwater world adds a layer of adventure to the day.

The Picnic: A Highlight

A real treat is the anchor picnic on board. The food, prepared by the guide, includes vegetables, anchovy and tzatziki sauce, served fresh with crusty bread. The rosé wine, available for guests over 18, makes the meal feel like a true Provençal celebration. Multiple reviews mention how delicious and thoughtfully prepared the food was, with some describing it as “extra special” and “deli.” For those with dietary restrictions, the guide is accommodating — vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Sailing and Water Activities

Maxime’s passion for sailing shines through. Guests have the opportunity to participate in maneuvers, making this more than just a sightseeing cruise. If the wind permits, the boat will glide smoothly, offering fantastic views of Cannes and the coastline. If the weather isn’t ideal, you’ll still enjoy swimming and relaxing in the sun — as noted by reviewers, even when sailing was limited, guests still found the day enjoyable.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, including masks and towels, making it easy for everyone to cool off and explore. Several reviewers mention how their kids or partners loved the snorkeling, emphasizing how accessible and fun it was for all ages.

Flexibility and Personalized Service

One of the most praised aspects is how Maxime tailors the experience. Whether you want to sail extensively, swim, explore the islands, or just unwind, the trip adapts accordingly. Several reviews highlight the friendly guidance and flexibility, making it clear that this isn’t a cookie-cutter tour but an experience that can suit your mood and interests.

Value for Money

At around $130.55 per person, this trip offers exceptional value. It includes the private boat, snorkeling gear, towels, a homemade meal, and wine, all curated in a relaxed setting. Compared to larger group tours or commercial cruises, the intimacy and personal service make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a memorable day on the water.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is largely positive, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can affect the trip. If winds are high or seas rough, sailing might be limited, though swimming and relaxing still go on. Seasickness could be a concern for sensitive travelers, so bringing medication is advised if needed. Also, in peak season (July and August), increased traffic might make the experience slightly less tranquil, but the guide’s adaptability helps mitigate this.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private sailing trip is perfect for romantic couples wanting to celebrate a special occasion, small groups of friends eager for a fun, hands-on adventure, or travelers who value personalized service and authentic experiences. If you enjoy being outdoors, in the water, and on a boat with knowledgeable guides who genuinely love sharing their passion, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s also well-suited for those who want more than just a sightseeing cruise — the opportunity to participate in sailing, explore the islands at your own pace, and enjoy delicious homemade food makes it a well-rounded, meaningful day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts around 5 to 6 hours, including sailing, island exploration, snorkeling, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
You get the private sailing experience, snorkeling equipment, bath towels, homemade Provencal lunch with vegetables, anchovy, and tzatziki, and rosé wine for guests over 18.

Can I participate in sailing?
Yes, guests have the chance to help with sailing maneuvers, making this more interactive for those interested in sailing.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Absolutely. Masks and towels are included, and the ecological museum and snorkeling are free to explore.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, your personal medication if seasick, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The guide is accommodating with dietary needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips are weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing trip from Cannes to Sainte-Marguerite Island offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Provençal charm. The chance to participate in sailing, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and snorkel in clear waters makes it a memorable way to experience the Côte d’Azur beyond the crowded beaches. The guide’s friendly demeanor and tailored approach ensure you’ll feel well cared for and engaged.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful day on the water, or simply want to see the coast from a different perspective, this trip delivers excellent value and genuine experiences. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, hands-on activities, and local flavor.

For those who want a more personalized, authentic way to enjoy Cannes and its islands, this private sailing excursion will leave you with treasured memories and a new appreciation for the French Riviera’s maritime beauty.