Cannes Private Boat Tour to Lérins Islands – Relax & Cruise

Taking a boat trip along the French Riviera sounds like something you’ve seen in movies, but this private boat tour from Cannes offers a more intimate, relaxed, and personalized way to enjoy the coast. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, this 4-hour private cruise lets you soak up the sun, admire the stunning views, and explore the nearby islands without the crowds or noise of larger group tours.

One of the things we really appreciate about this experience is how flexible and tailored it feels. You’re not just another passenger but a guest on a comfortable, well-equipped boat with your own skipper, meaning you can customize stops and activities. However, it’s worth noting that the price doesn’t include the skipper’s fee, which adds an extra cost to consider if you want a fully private experience.

This tour suits those who love a mix of relaxation and adventure—perfect for travelers seeking serene waters, beautiful scenery, and a touch of luxury. It’s also ideal if you want a more private, flexible day on the water rather than a crowded ferry or tour group.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: Perfect for personalized trips with friends, families, or couples.
• Stunning views of Cannes Bay and the Lérins Islands: Ideal for photography and scenic appreciation.
• Activities include swimming, snorkeling, and optional lunch: Great for active explorers and relaxing beach days.
• Includes drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboard: Adds value and convenience for a full-day feel.
• Optional add-ons like Seabob and extra hours: Perfect for thrill-seekers and extended adventures.
• Skipper fee additional: Budget for an extra €300 if you want a fully private experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Vessel

The tour departs from Port Canto in Cannes, with the boat stationed at Slip 119. The vessel itself is a sleek 24-foot Deckboat, offering plenty of space for up to 9 guests. The boat is outfitted with front and rear sunbeds, a Bimini for shade, an outdoor shower, sink, and swimming ladder — all the comforts that make for a pleasant ride. Its powerful engine ensures smooth navigation, so you won’t feel the bumps or jolts often associated with smaller boats.

The Scenic Cruise Along Cannes Bay

As you set sail, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of Cannes from the water, a perspective that many visitors miss when sticking to land. You’ll pass by iconic sights like the Palais des Festivals and the shimmering coastline, making it a memorable start to your day. The boat’s Bluetooth sound system adds to the relaxed vibe, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes while soaking up the scenery.

The Lerins Islands: Monks Island and the Iron Mask Prison

Your main stops include the famous Lérins Islands—especially Monks Island and the site of the old Iron Mask Prison. These islands are historically fascinating and visually stunning, with lush greenery and clear waters. You can choose to visit the monastery, explore the island’s quiet coves, or just enjoy the view from the boat.

One of the highlights, as mentioned in reviews, is the chance to anchor, swim, and snorkel in the pristine waters surrounding the islands. The tour provides snorkels, masks, paddleboards, and floats, making it easy to cool off and explore the underwater world. Reviewers mention that the water clarity is excellent, making snorkeling particularly enjoyable.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Our guests have loved the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters and explore undersea life. It’s worth noting that the water is described as very clear, which makes snorkeling feel more like a mini adventure. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and floats ensures everyone can participate, from children to adults.

Optional Lunch and Additional Activities

While snacks and drinks are provided, you might want to bring or order a picnic or lunch on the boat. Some guests have enjoyed having drinks and light bites while relaxing on deck. If you’re keen on exploring further, you can visit the monastery or stay onboard to enjoy the atmosphere. For those wanting extra excitement, there’s the option to rent a Seabob (underwater scooter) for an additional €150—a fun twist for thrill-seekers.

The Skipper’s Role and Extra Costs

The experience includes a Skipper, but this is not included in the base price of $527 per group. The Skipper fee is an additional €300, payable on site. This means that even though the boat and activities are included, you should account for this extra cost in your budget. Some reviews mention surprises over additional charges, so clarity beforehand is helpful.

Flexibility and Customization

This tour offers flexible hours—morning, afternoon, or evening—so you can plan around your other activities. You can also extend the trip by paying extra per hour. The ability to customize your experience—whether you want a longer cruise, more swimming, or visiting specific islands—makes this tour particularly attractive.

Experience Value

At roughly $527 for up to 9 people, the per-person cost can be quite reasonable, especially considering the private nature and the included gear. Compared to larger group tours or public ferries, this private experience offers more personalized service, freedom to choose your stops, and the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, especially the captains. For instance, Cici from the US highlighted Rodolphe as an “excellent captain” who made their day special. Louise from the US also appreciated Raphael, noting that they had the “best time,” especially with the added enjoyment of wine, pizza, and renting the Seabob.

Another guest from Canada appreciated how attentive the captain was to their family with children, emphasizing the safety and relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, a reviewer from Austria pointed out the additional cost for the skipper, which might catch some travelers off guard if expectations aren’t set beforehand.

The Added Value

The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and floats was highly appreciated, allowing everyone to enjoy the water comfortably. The availability of drinks and snacks kept the mood light and festive. Many found the crew to be lively, friendly, and accommodating—making the cruise feel more like a personalized day with friends than a standard tour.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• Departure point: Port Canto, Cannes, Slip 119.
• Duration: 4 hours, with optional extra hours at €150/hour.
• Group size: Up to 9 people comfortably.
• Price: $527 per group, plus €300 skipper fee.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and beachwear.
• Included: Water, wine, snorkeling gear, paddleboard, and floats.
• Not included: Skipper fee and optional Seabob (€150).
• Availability: Flexible start times—morning, afternoon, or evening.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat tour is perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious, flexible, and intimate experience on the water. It suits those who want to explore the stunning coastal scenery and islands without the buzz of large group tours. Families with children, groups of friends, or couples wanting a romantic escape from the land will find it especially appealing.

If you’re a water enthusiast—swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding—this tour offers plenty of opportunities to get your fill. Plus, the option to customize stops or extend your time makes it a versatile choice. Those who prefer a guided, safe, and well-equipped experience will feel well taken care of, especially with the enthusiastic and attentive captains.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a private, relaxed day on the water in Cannes, this boat tour provides a combination of scenic beauty, water activities, and personalized service. The boat’s amenities ensure comfort, while the flexible itinerary allows you to tailor the day to your preferences. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and drinks adds value that many other experiences might lack.

While the additional skipper fee is an important consideration, many guests find the overall experience worth the extra cost for the exclusivity and freedom it provides. This tour is especially suited to travelers who want to avoid crowds, enjoy scenic views, and explore the Lérins Islands at their own pace.

If you’re after a memorable day on the water with thoughtful touches and stunning scenery, this private boat trip stands out as a genuinely worthwhile choice for your French Riviera adventure.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is for your private group, with a maximum of 9 guests.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the boat, snorkeling gear, paddleboard, floats, water, and wine. The skipper fee (€300) is extra.

Can I extend the trip?
Yes, extra hours can be booked at €150 per hour if you want to stay longer.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and beachwear for a comfortable day in the sun.

Is food included?
Snacks and drinks are provided, but you can also bring your own or order a meal on the boat.

Are there options for water activities?
Absolutely. You can swim, snorkel, and use the paddleboard. Seabob rentals are available for an extra charge.

Where do we meet?
At Port Canto, Cannes, Slip 119.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat has life jackets for children, and the water activities are generally safe for families, with the skipper ensuring a secure environment.

This private boat tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy the French Riviera with comfort, flexibility, and a touch of adventure — perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, personalized ocean escape.