Cannes & Lérins Islands: Private Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Aperitif

Summary

Private boat escape to secret coves and turquoise waters

You’ll cruise from Cannes to the wild coves of the Lérins Islands by private boat, swimming in turquoise water and snorkeling among fish near Sainte-Marguerite Island. Enjoy snacks and chilled drinks on deck as your local skipper shares stories about the islands’ history. Expect laughter, salty air, and that rare sense of escape you can’t quite plan for.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to look that clear—almost unreal, like someone had turned up the color on the Mediterranean. We’d barely left Cannes when our skipper, Jean-Luc (who seems to know every ripple in this bay), grinned and pointed out Sainte-Marguerite Island ahead. The salt air was sharp and fresh, and you could smell pine from the shore even before we anchored. I tried not to drop my sunglasses overboard—almost did anyway.

Snorkeling off the boat felt a bit awkward at first (mask hair is a thing), but once I got used to it, drifting above those underwater sculptures was kind of hypnotic. Fish darted everywhere—tiny flashes of silver in the blue. My friend tried stand-up paddling and immediately fell in; Jean-Luc just laughed and handed her a soda. There’s something about floating there, with nothing but quiet splashes and distant gulls, that makes you forget how close you are to Cannes’ busy Croisette Boulevard.

The aperitif on board was simple—chilled rosé, olives, some cheese—but honestly it tasted better than any fancy lunch I’ve had lately. Maybe it’s the sea air or maybe just being with people who don’t care if you’re still dripping wet from swimming. We watched sunlight flicker off Île Saint-Honorat while Jean-Luc told us about monks making wine there for centuries (he says he’s tried it—“not bad!”). I still think about that view back toward Cannes as we cruised along the coast; everything looked softer somehow. Anyway, I’d do this private boat tour again just for that feeling of being quietly somewhere else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Lérins Islands and Cannes Bay

• Discover Cannes from the sea
• Swim and snorkel in coves
• Stand-up paddle in natural spots
• Enjoy aperitif on Lérins Islands
• Visit underwater museum while swimming
• Anchor and dive in island cove
• Discover majestic Île Saint-Honorat
• Admire La Croisette from the sea

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Cannes & Lérins Islands boat tour?

Yes, masks and snorkels are included for all guests during the private boat tour.

How long does the private boat trip from Cannes last?

This is a half-day excursion exploring the Lérins Islands and nearby coves.

Are drinks or snacks included during the tour?

Yes, an aperitif board with wine, water, soda, and snacks is served on board.

Do I need previous experience to try stand-up paddleboarding?

No experience is required; equipment is provided and beginners are welcome.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point in Cannes.

Can children join this private boat tour?

Children under 3 years old are not accepted; otherwise suitable for all fitness levels.

What islands will we visit during this day trip from Cannes?

You’ll explore Sainte-Marguerite Island and Île Saint-Honorat in the Bay of Cannes.

Is there an extra fee for the skipper?

Yes, there is a €300 skipper fee payable directly on board at departure.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards, an underwater scooter if you want to try it out, plus fuel for cruising between coves. Drinks like wine or soda and light snacks are served as an onboard aperitif while you relax after swimming or exploring around Sainte-Marguerite Island—all guided by your local skipper before heading back toward Cannes.