Cannes: Private Boat Trip to Lerins Islands & Cap d’Antibes

Imagine gliding along the sparkling waters of the French Riviera, with the warm sun on your face and nothing but the ocean and scenic islands around you. That’s what this private boat trip promises—a tailored, relaxed day exploring some of the most beautiful spots in the area. Whether you’re after peaceful swimming, snorkeling in clear waters, or just soaking up the coastline views, this tour offers a flexible way to experience the Riviera without the crowds.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch—you’re not stuck in a big group with a scripted itinerary. Instead, your friendly local skipper guides you at your pace, making stops for swimming, strolling, or just floating on paddleboards. One small but significant plus: it’s perfect for couples, small families, or a cozy group of friends, with space for up to five passengers plus the skipper.

A potential consideration is that skipper fees are paid separately (around 200 euros), which adds to your total cost. Also, the trip’s duration can vary from 3 to 6 hours—so if you’re on a tight schedule, it’s worth confirming the timing beforehand. This tour works best for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed day on the water, especially those keen on exploring at their own pace and avoiding tourist-heavy boat excursions.

Key Points

• Customizable experiences with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and island strolls
• Knowledgeable guides who share local insights and stories
• Stunning scenery including the Lerins Islands and Cap d’Antibes
• All equipment provided: snorkeling gear, paddleboards, life jackets, and swim noodles
• Flexibility in duration, from 3 to 6 hours, accommodating different schedules
• Good value for a private, tailored experience at $339 for up to 5 people

Exploring the Itinerary and Highlights

This tour kicks off at the conveniently located Camille Rayon Marina, easy to reach from both Cannes and Antibes. Once onboard your private vessel, the day immediately feels special. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with a large cockpit, ample seating, and a swim platform that makes dipping into the sea straightforward. You’ll meet your skipper—who is often praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and able to craft a trip that matches your interests.

The Cruising Experience

Cruising along the Golfe-Juan coast, you’ll get a fresh perspective of the Riviera’s coastline—an area often seen from crowded streets or beaches but rarely enjoyed from the water. Your skipper, often Philippe, is known for sharing engaging anecdotes about the area’s land and sea. Several reviews mention his enthusiasm and deep knowledge, which can turn a simple boat ride into an engaging cultural lesson.

During the cruise, expect to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, with plenty of photo opportunities. The water here is famously clear, so you’ll be able to see into the depths as you glide past yachts, historic villas, and rocky coves.

Stop at the Lerins Islands

The highlight for many is the visit to the Lerins Islands—particularly Saint Marguerite and Saint Honorat. The islands are renowned for their natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, offering the perfect escape from busy towns. Reviewers mention the chance to take a short walk on Saint Honorat or explore the island’s peaceful paths.

One guest shared, “We had time for a short walk on Saint Honorat and a quick dip in the stunning waters off of Saint Marguerite.” The islands are small enough to stroll around, but enough for a relaxing exploration. The quiet charm of these spots offers a stark contrast to the bustling mainland, giving visitors a genuine feel of the Riviera’s hidden gems.

Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Water Fun

The boat comes equipped with snorkel gear and paddleboards, which several reviews say make all the difference. The calm, blue waters are perfect for floating around, discovering colorful fish, or just enjoying the sensation of being weightless. One reviewer even mentioned snorkeling near the eco-museum—the water’s clarity makes it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.

Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the equipment—well-maintained snorkels, noodles for floating, and paddleboards for those who want to stay active. These features turn an already relaxing trip into a fun, interactive adventure suitable for all ages, including families with young kids.

The Cap d’Antibes and Scenic Coastline

Cruising past Cap d’Antibes, you’ll admire one of the most glamorous stretches of coastline. The rocky cliffs and luxurious villas make for a picture-perfect backdrop. Many reviewers mention the peaceful vibe of this area, away from the crowds of the city. As the boat glides along, you can soak in the scenery, with the option to stop and dip into the water whenever you feel like.

Food, Drinks, and Optional Extras

While food and drinks aren’t included in the base price, reviewers note the convenience of onboard storage for snacks and beverages. Many also appreciate the opportunity to order water, ice cream, or snacks from the marina or nearby delivery boats—perfect for a day on the water to be truly stress-free.

A notable perk is the ability to bring your own food and drinks onboard, making it easy to enjoy a picnic or celebrate a special occasion. Some reviews mention bringing a charcuterie platter or purchasing local wines beforehand.

Customizing Your Day

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is its flexibility. Whether you want to spend hours swimming and snorkeling or prefer a leisurely cruise with a few stops, your skipper is happy to adapt. Several guests mention how the experience was “tailored to what we wanted” and highlight the personalized service.

The tour is also suitable for those with children, as long as they’re over 3 years old (not suitable for wheelchair users). The relaxed pace and safe environment make it a memorable family outing.

The Value of the Experience

At $339 for a private group of up to five people, this experience offers remarkable value. When you consider the cost of private boat rentals or guided tours in other regions, this feels quite reasonable—especially given the inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a knowledgeable skipper.

Reviewers frequently mention the “excellent value,” with many calling their trip the highlight of their trip to the Riviera. The fact that you can customize your itinerary, enjoy privacy, and spend quality time together makes it a great deal.

The only extra cost to keep in mind is the skipper fee of 200 euros, payable directly on the boat. While this is an additional expense, many guests feel it’s well worth it for the personalized service and the safety provided by a professional skipper.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is perfect for small groups, couples, or families seeking a relaxed, authentic experience of the French Riviera. It suits travelers who want more than just a scenic cruise—those eager to swim, snorkel, and explore with flexibility. It’s ideal for those who value personalized service and local insights and want to avoid crowded, large-group tours. If your priority is quality time on the water with stunning views, this tour checks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 5 passengers plus the skipper, making it suitable for small groups or intimate outings.

Is food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price, but you can bring your own or order from nearby vendors.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, cash for extras, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a picnic if you want to enjoy some food on board.

Are snorkel gear and paddleboards provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, paddleboards, life jackets, and swim noodles are included.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It ranges from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your preference and availability.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 3 years old. Not recommended for wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

This private boat trip from Cannes to the Lerins Islands and Cap d’Antibes offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Riviera scenery. You’ll love the freedom to create your ideal day—whether that’s swimming, exploring, or simply soaking up the views. The knowledgeable guides make the experience feel personal and insightful, adding extra value to your journey.

For travelers wanting a peaceful yet scenic escape, this tour provides a high-quality, flexible experience at a reasonable price. It’s especially well-suited for small groups or couples seeking a memorable, bespoke day on the water—away from the hustle and bustle of typical tours.

If you’re after stunning landscapes, a touch of adventure, and the chance to enjoy the Riviera like a local, this private boat trip is hard to beat.