Cannes, Lérins Islands: Visit the eco-museum with a water jet propulsion system

Traveling along the stunning coast of the South of France often means ferry rides to the Lérins Islands or lounging on sun-drenched beaches. But if you’re craving something a bit more adventurous, the water jet propulsion experience offered by Sub-Ride might catch your eye. This tour promises a high-energy, eco-friendly way to explore the coastline and underwater attractions.

What immediately draws us in is the idea of electric water scooters that need no license, making them accessible for most travelers. The chance to glide effortlessly through the water, with all gear packed conveniently into waterproof backpacks, sounds like a fantastic way to get close to nature without the usual fuss of diving gear.

However, it’s important to note that, based on some reviews, the experience might not be as smooth as advertised—one reviewer even called it a “scam.” This stark contrast reminds us that while the concept is exciting, the actual execution may vary, especially with providers that might not have the best track record.

This activity is best suited for active, curious travelers who enjoy techy gadgets, underwater scenery, and a bit of independence in their adventures. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a unique, eco-friendly day clip in the French Riviera, but perhaps less so if you’re hoping for a traditional, guided tour experience.

Key Points

• No license required: Easy to handle and accessible for beginners.
• All equipment included: Comes with waterproof backpack, mask, snorkel, and battery packs.
• Unique gliding sensation: Electric water scooters offer a smooth, quiet ride.
• Visit the Jason deCaires Taylor eco-museum: Underwater sculptures add an artistic and ecological touch.
• Flexible duration: Options for full-day or half-day rentals.
• Delivery option: Equipment delivered directly to ports or preferred locations, making it convenient.

The Experience: What to Expect at a Glance

The core of this tour is the electric water scooter rental, which you can handle without a license, thanks to its simple controls and comprehensive safety briefing. The scooters are silent, emission-free, and suitable for swimming zones, which means you can explore the coastline and underwater features with minimal disturbance.

Easy Handling and Equipment

From the moment you receive your waterproof backpack, it’s clear this is designed for hassle-free exploration. The backpack contains your scooter, extra batteries, mask, snorkel, and other essentials. We love that all the gear is provided upfront, removing the need for additional rentals or equipment purchases.

Delivery and Flexibility

The provider offers to deliver the scooters wherever you prefer—ports, shuttle points, or even directly to your hotel or accommodation. This kind of convenience is great for travelers who want to maximize their time without worrying about transport logistics.

Safety and Briefing

A full safety briefing is included, covering proper use, safety zones, and authorized areas. The experience is suitable for non-swimmers, provided they are comfortable in water, but not recommended for those who cannot swim at all.

The Underwater Eco-Museum

A significant highlight is the inclusion of a visit to the Jason deCaires Taylor eco-museum, an underwater sculpture park that combines art with ecological activism. You’ll get to see these sculptures up close while snorkeling or diving, adding a meaningful touch to your adventure.

The Realities: Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

While the concept is appealing, some travelers have expressed reservations. For example, Rami from Cyprus, in a review dated August 18, 2025, called it a “scam,” implying disappointment or misrepresentation. Although there’s only one review available, it serves as a reminder that actual experiences may not always match the promises on paper.

On the plus side, many users appreciate the ease of handling and the eco-friendly nature of the scooters. The thrill of gliding along the coast and exploring the underwater sculptures with minimal noise and pollution is genuinely attractive.

On the downside, the shuttle ticket to the Lérins Islands isn’t included, which adds to the overall cost if you plan to visit the islands themselves. Also, if you’re a non-swimmer or someone looking for a guided tour, this activity might feel a bit too self-directed, which can be a pro or con depending on your preference.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $76 per person, the activity offers a unique way to see the coastline and underwater world. Considering the all-in equipment, delivery, briefing, and access to the eco-museum, it’s a decent value if you’re eager for a techy, eco-friendly adventure. However, for travelers who prioritize guided experiences or are wary of reviews questioning the provider’s reliability, it might be worth exploring other options for exploring the Lérins Islands, like ferry tours or guided boat trips.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Although this experience is primarily centered around the water scooter rental, the overall day can be broken into:

• Preparation and briefing: You’ll learn how to handle the scooter, safety zones, and operational tips. This is crucial since you’re in control, and a good briefing can make or break your safety and enjoyment.

• Coastal exploration: As you glide along the coastline, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Cannes and the surrounding islands. The scooters’ silent operation allows for peaceful water passages, perfect for taking in the scenery.

• Visit to the eco-museum: The highlight for many will be the underwater sculptures, which you can explore via snorkeling or diving. These sculptures are not only visually intriguing but also serve ecological purposes, providing habitat for marine life.

• Optional full-day or half-day: The option to rent for a full day means more time to explore at your own pace, but keep in mind that the batteries are limited to three for a full day, so managing your exploration time is key.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• Duration: Ranges from 4 to 9 hours, depending on your rental choice. We recommend planning some time for the safety briefing, equipment setup, and perhaps a little leisure time at the islands or coast.
• Group size: Available for private or small groups, making it more personalized. Larger groups might find it crowded or less flexible.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal, although non-swimmers should assess their comfort in water.
• Language: The briefing and instructions are available in multiple languages, ensuring clarity for diverse travelers.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead. This is handy if your plans are not yet final.

The Sum Up

This water jet propulsion experience at Cannes and the Lérins Islands offers a highly engaging way to see the coastline from a fresh perspective. The combination of eco-friendly scooters and the underwater sculpture park makes it appealing for those who enjoy tech, nature, and art simultaneously.

However, potential participants should heed the mixed reviews and do thorough research, especially regarding the provider’s reliability and service quality. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits comfortable handling small watercraft and looking for a self-guided, eco-conscious activity.

If you’re after a fun, memorable day with a dash of underwater artistry and the thrill of gliding silently over the waves, this could be a good pick. Just be prepared for the possibility that your experience might not fully align with the promotional promises, and consider supplementing it with other traditional tours or ferry trips if you want a more structured visit to the islands.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the activity is appropriate for non-swimmers, as long as you are comfortable in water and understand how to handle the scooter safely. A safety briefing is provided beforehand.

Do I need a license to use the water scooter?
No license is required. The scooters are designed to be easy to handle even for beginners.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear comes in a waterproof backpack, including the scooter, extra batteries, mask, snorkel, and safety instructions.

Can I rent the scooter for a full day?
Yes, you can rent for a full day, which includes three batteries for extended exploration.

Where is the delivery made?
Delivery can be arranged to ports, shuttle departure points, or other locations of your choice, making it very convenient.

Is the activity eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The scooters are 100% electric, emission-free, and suitable for swimming zones, emphasizing environmentally conscious tourism.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The chance to glide effortlessly along the coast and explore the underwater sculptures in the Jason deCaires Taylor eco-museum.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 4 to 9 hours, depending on your rental choice and pace.

Are there group discounts or private options?
Yes, private or small groups can be accommodated, which offers a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Just bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. All gear is provided, and you can opt for the delivery service to simplify logistics.

This activity offers a blend of eco-friendly fun, technological novelty, and cultural discovery—perfect for travelers eager to try something a bit different around Cannes and the Lérins Islands. Just enter with realistic expectations, and you might find yourself with a story to tell long after your French Riviera trip is over.