Hyères, Brégançon & Porquerolles : Full-Day cruise with Meal

A full-day cruise from Hyères that offers a taste of the Riviera’s best—think turquoise waters, scenic coastline, and peaceful anchorages—sounds like an ideal way to relax and see the coast from a different perspective. This particular experience, run by AMC CAPE GRACE, combines the fun of sailing on a maxi-catamaran with the comfort of included meals and plenty of water-based activities. While it’s not a beach-hopping adventure, it’s perfect for those who love calm waters and spectacular scenery.

What I really appreciate about this cruise are two things: First, the two carefully chosen anchorages—one near the Fort of Brégançon and the other off Porquerolles—offer an opportunity to enjoy pristine waters and natural beauty without the crowds. Second, the all-inclusive meal and drinks make it a fuss-free experience, so you can relax and focus on the views rather than worrying about snacks or beverages. On the flip side, a consideration to keep in mind is the lack of beach access—this isn’t a swimming or sunbathing trip on the sand, but more of a scenic voyage with opportunities to paddleboard nearby.

This cruise hits a sweet spot for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day at sea with good value for the price. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family, the combination of comfortable sailing, beautiful scenery, and thoughtful amenities makes it a memorable outing.

Key Points & Takeaways

• Spectacular coastline views: Your journey along the Hyères coast provides vistas of vineyards, pine forests, and rocky headlands.
• Two scenic anchorages: The stops at Léoube Bay near Brégançon and off Porquerolles Island are highlights, offering calm waters for swimming or paddleboarding.
• All-inclusive meals and drinks: The buffet lunch, with Mediterranean flavors, and drinks—including wine and soft drinks—are included, making this a hassle-free experience.
• Water toys and paddleboards: These are available for guests, adding fun for those who want to get closer to the water without getting wet.
• Peaceful sailing experience: Expect gentle sailing and relaxing anchorages rather than high-speed thrills, perfect for unwinding.
• Limited beach access: No beaches or swimming on sand are included; you’ll mostly enjoy swimming near the boat or relaxing on deck.

Exploring the Full-Day Catamaran Cruise in Provence

If you’re after a day of beautiful scenery, good food, and peaceful waters, this Hyères cruise is worth considering. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect, based on the tour’s itinerary, reviews, and practical details.

Starting Point and Boarding

The adventure begins at Hyères Saint-Pierre Port, where you should arrive about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. The boarding process is straightforward—simply present your electronic ticket (QR code) and check in with the crew, who will give a brief intro to the boat, safety, and itinerary. Early arrival is wise, since latecomers can’t be accommodated, and the cruise departs promptly around 9:30 AM.

The Scenic Voyage to Fort of Brégançon

Cruising along the coastline, you’ll enjoy views of vineyards, pines, and rocky cliffs, setting the tone for a relaxing day. Around 10:30 AM, the first anchorage is near Léoube Bay, between the Fort of Brégançon and the rocky islet of the same name. This spot is described as breathtaking, perfect for unwinding and taking in the scenery.

The highlight here is the tranquility—the gentle rocking of the boat and the clear waters make it easy to forget the busy world. Paddleboards are available, so you can explore the waters at your own pace. An aperitif is served on board at this point, followed by a buffet lunch featuring Mediterranean flavors and wines, including rosé, white, and red.

Lunch & Relaxation

The buffet lunch is a real plus, often praised for its freshness and authenticity. One reviewer appreciated the “gourmet and varied buffet,” while others noted the well-selected wines. Since drinks are included, you can enjoy a glass of wine while relaxing on deck or chatting with fellow travelers.

The Voyage to Porquerolles and Second Anchorage

After lunch, the cruise continues toward Porquerolles, the jewel of the Hyères Islands. Around 3:15 PM, the boat anchors at Cap des Mèdes, an area known for cliffs, coves, and wild coastlines. Here, the scenery becomes even more dramatic—golden rocks and crystal-clear waters create ideal conditions for swimming or paddleboarding.

The second stop offers a more private ambiance—a perfect moment to soak in the natural beauty, observe marine life, or simply lounge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Return Journey & Disembarkation

After an hour at anchor, the boat sets sail for Hyères, with a final peaceful cruise back, arriving around 5:30 PM. The return leg offers another chance to unwind and enjoy the views one last time.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the spectacular scenery as a key draw—one caller described the experience as “a day of pure escape”. The crew, often praised for their politeness and kindness, helps create a welcoming atmosphere. One traveler appreciated the exceptional crew, mentioning how relaxing and magical everything felt, even with children in tow.

There is a note from a reviewer about lack of English explanations during the tour, which can be a minor downside if language is a concern. Also, some found the beach access limited—the focus is on sailing and swimming near the boat rather than beach visits.

Practicalities & Value

At $170 per person for 8 hours, this cruise offers good value considering the included meals, drinks, and water toys. It’s a full day of gentle sailing, scenic stops, and relaxation, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-key experience with plenty of comfort. The inclusion of paddleboards and an aperitif adds a playful touch, while the carefully chosen anchorages ensure you’re immersed in natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who enjoy calm waters, scenic views, and good food. It’s perfect if you want a relaxing day at sea without the hassle of planning your own boat trip. Families with children who are comfortable with water activities will find it especially enjoyable, as well as couples seeking a peaceful escape.

It’s less ideal for those looking for beach-hopping or intense swimming—the focus is more on sailing, sightseeing, and relaxing. Also, if you prefer guided tours with detailed historical or cultural commentary, the lack of English explanations might be a small drawback.

Summing Up: Is It Worth It?

Considering the beautiful anchorages, included meals, and water toys, this cruise offers solid value for a peaceful day immersed in the stunning scenery of Provence’s coast. The experience captures the essence of leisurely sailing and natural beauty, making it a memorable addition to a Provence trip.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
It’s best to arrive about 10 minutes before departure at Hyères Saint-Pierre Port. The crew will check you in and give a quick safety briefing.

Are drinks and meals included?
Yes, the price covers a buffet lunch with Mediterranean flavors, wines (rosé, white, red), soft drinks, and an aperitif served about an hour before lunch.

Can I paddleboard or swim during the cruise?
You can enjoy the paddleboards provided on board, and there’s the option to swim or paddle near the boat at each anchorage. However, there’s no access to beaches for sunbathing.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, especially for kids comfortable with water activities. The relaxed pace and water toys make it family-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions may lead to itinerary adjustments or cancellations. The operator offers a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for about 8 hours, with stops around lunch and early afternoon, ending around 5:30 PM.

Is there a guided commentary?
The tour is conducted in French and English, but reviews mention a lack of detailed explanations in English, so a more immersive narration might not be guaranteed.

To sum it up, this Hyères full-day cruise offers a peaceful, scenic, and well-catered way to experience the coast’s natural charm. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed day with stunning views, good food, and water-based fun without the crowds or hassle of beach visits. If you’re seeking tranquility and a taste of the Riviera’s beauty, this trip is worth considering.