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Travelers seeking a day full of natural beauty, charming villages, and tranquil waters will find this cruise of the Porquerolles and Port-Cros islands a perfect getaway. Operating from the south of France, specifically Bormes-les-Mimosas, this guided tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and plenty of time to enjoy the islands at your own pace. The small-boat setting, with a cap of 50 passengers, promises an intimate experience, while the hybrid propulsion boat keeps things eco-conscious and smooth.
What we especially love about this tour is the blend of practical planning and authentic discovery. The 4.5 hours in Porquerolles let you wander freely through the picturesque village, rent a bike to reach Notre-Dame beach, or visit a vineyard. Meanwhile, the 1.5 hours on Port-Cros offers a taste of its unspoiled nature and historic sites like the Fort du Moulin. Of course, the guided commentary—available in several languages—is a real plus, providing insights and context without being overwhelming.
A potential consideration is the duration of stops; some travelers might prefer longer exploration time on each island or more flexible options. Also, the activity is weather-dependent; if rough seas or storms roll in, the experience could be affected. This tour suits outdoor lovers, families, or anyone wanting a scenic, educational day on the water with minimal hassle.
Key Points
- Eco-friendly Hybrid Boat: Quiet, smooth, and environmentally conscious boat enhances the journey.
- Small Group Size: Max 50 passengers ensures a more personal, less crowded experience.
- Guided Tour with Multilingual Commentary: Enriches the experience with historical insights and local stories.
- Ample Free Time: 4.5 hours in Porquerolles and 1.5 hours in Port-Cros give you flexibility to explore.
- Spectacular Scenery: Coastal cliffs, coves, beaches, vineyards, and forests viewed from the water.
- Ideal for Outdoors and Culture Enthusiasts: Perfect for those wanting an active yet relaxed day on the islands.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Starting from Bormes-les-Mimosas: The Perfect Launch Point
The tour kicks off at Latitude Verte, located at the port of Bormes-les-Mimosas, a charming village known for its medieval streets and vibrant flower-filled streets. The meeting point is straightforward, whether you arrive by car or public transport, and the ticket office is at the port entrance. It’s wise to arrive a little early to settle in and get comfortable before boarding.
The Hybrid Boat: Comfort Meets Sustainability
The vessel used for this cruise is a hybrid boat, combining a traditional combustion engine with electric propulsion. This setup offers a quieter ride and a gentler experience, especially noticeable during navigation along the coast or when approaching the islands’ coves. The boat can carry up to 50 guests, which we found to be a sweet spot—small enough to feel personal, yet large enough to avoid the feeling of a crowded tour.
Throughout the crossing, the crew provides a live commentary in French, enriched with written translations on your smartphone in English, German, Dutch, and Italian. This approach makes the experience accessible for multiple nationalities, allowing you to follow along easily and absorb the local stories and geological features of the archipelago.
The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day
The day begins with a morning departure from La Favière, heading towards Porquerolles. The 70-minute cruise along the coast offers stunning views of cliffs, wild coves, and turquoise beaches. Keep your camera ready; the scenery from the boat is as captivating as what you’ll see on land.
Porquerolles: The First Stop
Once on Porquerolles, you get around 4.5 hours of free time to explore independently. The island’s main village is charming, with quaint streets, cafes, and artisan shops. Reviewers mention that the crew is friendly and professional, adding to the smoothness of the entire experience—one reviewer described the crew as “very cordial and professional.” You might choose to cycle to Notre-Dame beach, renowned for its fine sands and clear waters, or visit a vineyard to sample local wines.
Some travelers appreciate the optional cultural visit, like the Carmignac Foundation, which combines contemporary art with lush surroundings, though entrance fees are not included. The flexibility in how you spend your time is a major plus, especially since some reviews note that the long stop allows for a relaxed pace.
Crossing to Port-Cros: Nature’s Treasure
In the early afternoon, the boat departs for Port-Cros. The crossing is roughly an hour, during which the crew highlights the island’s wild landscapes and protected status as part of the National Park since 1963. This part of the cruise is particularly appreciated for the natural beauty and the knowledgeable commentary.
Port-Cros: A Short but Sweet Visit
With approximately 1.5 hours on Port-Cros, you can stroll through its flower-filled streets, visit the Fort du Moulin, or simply enjoy the unspoiled seaside atmosphere. Many reviewers mention that the stop is enough to get a flavor of the island’s rustic charm and natural beauty without feeling rushed.
Return Journey: A Scenic Wrap-up
The cruise concludes with a 35-minute ferry back to Bormes-les-Mimosas, rounding out a day filled with scenic vistas, cultural insights, and outdoor exploration.
Pricing and Value
At $64 per person, this tour offers significant value, particularly considering the all-day guided cruise, stopovers, and the small-group experience. The inclusion of live commentary and written translations enhances the understanding of the islands’ history and geography, adding educational value. Plus, the flexibility to explore the islands independently makes it a good deal for those who prefer a mix of guided and free exploration.
While extras like food, drinks, or entrance fees are not included, there are plenty of cafes and shops at the ports and on the islands, allowing for budget-friendly additional activities.
Who Will Love This Tour?
- Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic boat rides and free time on the islands.
- Families benefit from the manageable pace and the small boat size.
- Cultural explorers will appreciate the historical sights and optional art visits.
- Those seeking an environmentally-friendly way to explore the coast will value the hybrid propulsion boat.
- Travelers with limited time in the South of France find this tour an efficient way to see two islands in one day.
Final Thoughts
This cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic sailing, cultural sightseeing, and leisure time on two of the most beautiful islands near the south of France. The small vessel and knowledgeable guides make it a more personal and informative experience, while the flexible schedule lets you set your own pace. The eco-friendly boat adds a modern, responsible touch that appeals to conscious travelers.
If you’re after a relaxing day out with plenty of stunning vistas, interesting stops, and a touch of local culture, this tour ticks those boxes well. It’s especially ideal for outdoor lovers, families, or those new to the Mediterranean region who want a taste of authentic island life without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.
FAQ
Is the boat tour suitable for people with motion sickness?
It’s wise to bring motion sickness prevention if you’re prone to seasickness, as the water can sometimes be choppy depending on the weather.
How long is the crossing to Porquerolles and Port-Cros?
The crossing to Porquerolles takes about 70 minutes, with the ride to Port-Cros lasting around an hour.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes the guided cruise on a hybrid boat, live commentary (in French with written translations), and stopovers in both islands with free time to explore.
Are food and drinks available during the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase them on the islands or bring your own.
Can I rent bicycles or beach equipment?
Yes, bicycles and beach equipment rentals are available on Porquerolles, but they are not included in the tour price.
How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the Latitude Verte ticket office at the port of Bormes-les-Mimosas/La Favière, or directly on the dock in front of the boat.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.
What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is subject to weather conditions; if the weather is unsuitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
This guided cruise of Porquerolles and Port-Cros is an excellent choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and educational day out on the water. With thoughtful planning, engaging guides, and opportunities for independent exploration, it offers an authentic taste of the Mediterranean’s natural and cultural treasures.
