Nice to Villefranche: Mala Cave Boat Tour & Swim Stop

Summary

From Nice by boat to Mala Cave then Villefranche for a swim and stroll

You’ll speed from Nice by boat with a local skipper, pausing for a swim at Mala cave’s dramatic cliffs before exploring Villefranche’s colorful old streets on foot. There’s time for coffee or wandering before heading back across sunlit waves with music playing softly in the background — it lingers with you longer than you’d expect.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing over the water before I’d fully realized how blue it was — that kind of Mediterranean blue you can’t really describe. Our skipper, Antoine, shouted something about Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat as we sped past, his voice half-lost in the wind but he grinned at us like we were all in on some local secret. The boat (it’s one of those semi-rigid ones, surprisingly comfy) felt steady enough even when my stomach did a little jump at the first wave. There was music playing — French pop, I think — and someone behind me laughed when I tried to hum along. That salty air sticks to your skin right away.

The main event was the Mala cave. Antoine slowed down so we could really see it — rocky cliffs leaning in close, shadows flickering across the water. He told us stories about smugglers hiding out here ages ago (or maybe he was just messing with us). We stopped long enough for anyone who wanted to jump in; I hesitated, but ended up sliding into the water anyway. It was cold at first but honestly, after a minute it felt perfect — like waking up all over again. The snorkeling gear came out and for a second everything went quiet except for splashing and someone’s muffled “wow” through their mask.

Villefranche surprised me. We docked right at the port and had about 45 minutes to wander around. The houses are painted every color you can think of — pinks and yellows and faded green shutters — and there’s this smell of coffee drifting out from somewhere (I never did find out which café). I got a little lost in the old town alleys; they twist around so much you forget which way is back to the sea. Some locals were chatting outside a bakery, hands waving around like they were painting their words in mid-air. I picked up an espresso that was probably too strong but tasted exactly right after swimming.

The ride back to Nice felt quieter somehow, everyone sunk into their own thoughts or just watching the coastline slide by. My hair still smelled like salt when we got off the boat. I keep thinking about that moment floating near Mala cave — sunlight flickering underwater, nowhere else to be for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Mala Cave and Villefranche

• Embark on boat from Nice
• Sail to Mala Cave
• Explore Mala Cave surroundings
• Swim in azure waters
• Disembark at Villefranche
• Discover Villefranche village and port
• Break for refreshments
• Return to Nice port

Top questions

How long is the boat tour from Nice to Villefranche?

The tour is a half-day experience with about 45 minutes spent ashore in Villefranche.

Can you swim during the Mala cave boat tour?

Yes, there’s a stop at Mala cave where swimming and snorkeling are allowed if you’re able to swim.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during your stop at Mala cave.

Are refreshments included during the Villefranche stop?

No refreshments are included but you have free time to buy drinks or snacks in Villefranche.

Is there music on board during the trip?

Yes, music is played on board throughout the boat ride.

Are life jackets provided for passengers?

Life jackets are included for safety on this tour.

Is hotel pickup included in this boat tour?

No hotel pickup; passengers must arrive at the departure point in Nice 15 minutes early.

Can children join this day trip from Nice?

This activity is not permitted for children under 5 years old or people over 110kg.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided semi-rigid boat ride from Nice with music playing onboard, all fees and taxes covered, life jackets for everyone, use of snorkeling equipment at Mala cave if you want to swim, plus time ashore in Villefranche-sur-Mer before returning by sea — just remember there’s no restroom on board and bring your own snacks if needed.