Private Boat Tour Nice to Monaco: 3-Hour French Riviera Cruise

Swim in hidden coves between Villefranche and the Esterel cliffs.

A 3-hour private boat tour departing from Eze-sur-Mer along the French Riviera coastline, aboard the traditional vessel SARDiiNE. You cruise toward Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Laurent Bay (weather permitting), stop to swim and snorkel in a secluded cove, and enjoy local snacks and drinks on board. The guide speaks English and French. Morning departures include breakfast; afternoon and sunset options come with different refreshments.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private boat tour along French Riviera

• Depart from Beaulieu-sur-Mer
• Cruise along Mediterranean coastline
• Pass by Plage d'Eze, Plage de Paloma, Plage de la Mala
• Pass by Baie de Villefranche and Port Lympia
• Stop for swimming and snorkeling
• Enjoy local delicacies and drinks onboard

The Experience

SARDiiNE is a traditional boat built for small groups, and the journey starts from Eze-sur-Mer heading along the Mediterranean coast. Depending on conditions, the route takes you past Villefranche-sur-Mer, Plage de la Mala, Plage d'Eze, Plage de Paloma, Baie de Villefranche, or Port Lympia — the captain chooses the day's stops based on weather and sea state. The coastline here is steep and rocky, lined with luxury villas and hidden coves that are unreachable from land.

Roughly halfway through the 3-hour trip, the boat anchors in a secluded cove for swimming and snorkeling. The water is clear enough to see the seabed, and you can stay in as long as you want during the stop. Towels are provided on board. Between the water and the return journey, you'll taste local delicacies — the menu shifts with the time of day. Morning trips include breakfast; afternoon cruises come with local snacks; sunset departures are paired with drinks and light refreshments. Sunscreen and sodas are also on board.

The boat holds a small group, and the guide narrates in English and French throughout. There's no fixed itinerary beyond the general route — the captain and guide adapt to what the sea allows and what the group wants to do. If you're prone to seasickness, the Mediterranean can still be rough on certain days, so check conditions before booking.

What’s included

• Towels, sunscreen, and snacks or breakfast depending on departure time.
• soda and alcoholic beverages.
• a swimming and snorkeling stop in a secluded cove.
• live guide in English and French.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Tiber Plaisance

Is this one for you?The boat holds a small group and moves at a relaxed pace with a long swimming stop built in, so this suits anyone who wants to drift along the coast without a fixed schedule or a crowded deck. The 3-hour duration and the single anchorage mean you're not rushing between stops — you're anchored, swimming, and eating in one place, which is what makes the cove time feel unhurried.

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Top questions

What's the water like for swimming during the boat tour from Eze-sur-Mer?

The cove where you stop has crystal-clear Mediterranean water suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Towels are provided on board, and you can stay in the water as long as you want during the designated stop.

Does the boat tour from Nice include food and drinks?

Yes. Breakfast is included on morning departures, afternoon cruises come with local snacks, and sunset trips include drinks and light refreshments. Sunscreen and sodas are also provided throughout the 3-hour journey.

Where exactly does the boat depart from, and how do I get there?

The boat departs from Eze-sur-Mer, a small coastal village between Nice and Monaco. Public transportation options are available nearby to reach the departure point.

Can the boat route change depending on the day?

Yes. The captain chooses stops based on weather and sea conditions. The route typically includes Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent Bay, Plage de la Mala, Plage d'Eze, Plage de Paloma, Baie de Villefranche, or Port Lympia, but the exact stops vary.

What languages does the guide speak on this French Riviera boat tour?

The guide speaks both English and French throughout the 3-hour journey.

Is this boat tour suitable for infants or very young children?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap during the trip. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, though it is not recommended for travelers prone to seasickness.