Private sailing cruise to Cap d’Antibes and the Lérins Islands

A Private Sailing Adventure in Provence: Discovering Cap d’Antibes and the Lérins Islands

Imagine slipping away from the crowds and cruising along some of France’s most glamorous coastlines in your own private sailboat. That’s what a private sailing cruise to Cap d’Antibes and the Lérins Islands offers—a blend of exclusivity, stunning scenery, and authentic marine adventures. This 7.5-hour journey promises not only beautiful vistas but also the chance to enjoy the region’s inaccessible corners, making it perfect for travelers craving a personal touch in their Côte d’Azur experience.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are its private group setting—meaning no noisy fellow travelers—and the variety of activities packed into a single day, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sightseeing. You get to customize your day with options like bringing your own lunch or ordering local dishes, which adds a personal element often missing in larger tours. However, it’s worth noting that this trip isn’t suitable for very young children or anyone with mobility issues, due to safety and logistical reasons.

One consideration is the timing, with departures from Port Vauban at 9:30 am. Planning around this start time is essential to maximize your day. Also, since the boat doesn’t provide cabin access during day trips, those looking for naps or resting indoors might find this limiting. Still, the overall feeling of freedom, coupled with the chance to explore inaccessible beaches and quiet coves, makes this a worthwhile outing.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private experience: No sharing the boat, ensuring personalized attention and privacy.
• Exclusive access: Explore parts of Cap d’Antibes that are off-limits to the public.
• Multiple activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and walking on the islands.
• Flexible dining options: Bring your own lunch or choose from local catering.
• Comfort and convenience: Toilets available on board, a fridge for food storage, and snorkeling gear included.
• Limited for certain travelers: Not suitable for children under 50 lbs, pregnant women, or those with mobility or back issues.

Discovering the Experience: A Full Breakdown

Meeting at Port Vauban and Departure

Your adventure begins at Port Vauban in Antibes, where you’ll meet your skipper on pontoon E2. This is straightforward, right in the heart of the bustling marina—easy to find and well-organized. The boat itself is a comfortable sailboat, perfect for a relaxed day at sea. Departing at 9:30 am, you’ll start by cruising along the coast, giving you a front-row seat to some of the most iconic sights, like the Château de la Croë, the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, and the renowned Bay of Billionaires.

Exploring Cap d’Antibes: A Private Guided Tour

Once on the water, your skipper—often a local with detailed knowledge of the area—guides you past some inaccessible spots. You’ll love how much of the coastline is visible from the boat’s vantage point. The 50-minute guided tour around Cap d’Antibes allows you to appreciate its luxurious villas set amid lush greenery, with a special highlight being the Bay of Billionaires, famed among yacht owners and high-rollers.

The guide’s insights are a bonus, giving you context about the region’s history and architecture. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and made the tour feel personalized, sharing stories I hadn’t read in any guidebook.” It’s a great way to get a sense of the area’s exclusivity without the hefty price tag of a land-based tour.

Snorkeling in Crystal Clear Waters

Next, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the Bay of Billionaires. The waters here are famously clear, with enough marine life to keep snorkelers entertained. Equipment is provided, and many appreciate how the water is calm enough for beginners. One traveler shared, “Snorkeling here felt like entering an underwater sculpture museum—bright statues and marine life all around.”

Heading Toward the Lérins Islands

After your aquatic adventures, the boat heads to the Lérins Islands, specifically Sainte Marguerite and Saint Honorat. The journey itself offers panoramic views, and you’ll appreciate the gentle sail, feeling more like a guest than a tourist. Once there, you’ll have about three hours to explore on your own or join guided walks.

Island Experiences: From Walks to Watersports

On Sainte Marguerite, you can stroll through the quiet woods, visit the local ecomuseum, or simply relax on the beach. The island’s history as a former prison site—famous for the Man in the Iron Mask—is intriguing, though the tour focuses more on leisure and natural beauty.

Saint Honorat is a different vibe—here, you can sip local wines produced by monks, walk through peaceful vineyards, or explore the historic abbey. Many reviews mention how accessible and well-maintained the walking paths are, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely stroll. The time on land is flexible enough for you to choose your preferred activity.

Refreshments and Flexibility

An aperitif with snacks is served onboard—think bubbles, cold waters, local wines, and small bites—adding a convivial touch to the journey. You’re also encouraged to bring your own lunch, with a fridge onboard to keep it fresh, or order pizza or a catered meal from a local provider. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers looking for a relaxed, customized day.

Returning to Port Vauban

Your day wraps up with a scenic sail back to port, arriving around late afternoon. The boat is equipped with toilets, which is a relief on a daylong adventure, but note that cabin use is not included, so plan accordingly for comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible, and scenic day at sea. It suits those who prefer an intimate experience over crowded tours and want to explore the region’s hidden corners. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with swimming and outdoor activities, as the tour features snorkeling and paddleboarding.

However, it might not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility challenges, since safety restrictions limit participation. The focus on comfort, privacy, and active exploration makes it a good choice for couples, families with older children, and groups of friends wanting a special day together.

Price and Logistics

Considering what’s included—the boat, skipper, fuel, port taxes, snacks, drinks, and equipment—the value is quite good. Private tours often come at a premium, but you’re paying for exclusivity and personalized service. The option to bring your own lunch or order from a caterer adds flexibility, which can help control costs. Keep in mind, the tour lasts 7.5 hours, so it’s a full day of adventure, perfect for making the most of your time in this beautiful corner of France.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing cruise offers a fantastic mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic exploration. You’ll love the sense of freedom that comes with a boat just for your group, combined with the chance to swim in crystal waters, walk on peaceful islands, and see some of the Côte d’Azur’s most exclusive spots from a truly unique perspective.

It’s best suited for those who value privacy and personalized experiences, and for travelers who enjoy active pursuits like snorkeling and paddleboarding. If you’re looking for an elegant yet laid-back way to spend a day, this tour delivers—without the crowds, but with plenty of memorable scenery and moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 50 lbs (23 kg), and safety restrictions mean it’s not suitable for young kids or those with mobility issues. It’s best for older children and adults comfortable in the water.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring your own lunch, and a fridge is available onboard. There are also options to order pizza or have a meal delivered from a local caterer.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear. Remember, bath towels are not provided, and cabin access isn’t available during the trip.

What facilities are available onboard?
Toilets are available throughout the day, but cabin use is not included for day trips.

Are there any language options for the guide?
Yes, the tour is offered in French, English, and Italian, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

How long is the stop on the islands?
You’ll have about three hours on the Lérins Islands for walking, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing at your own pace.

Is this tour refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your plans.

This sailing tour is a fine choice for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and active day on the French Riviera. It combines the exclusivity of private cruising with the natural beauty and tranquility of the Lérins Islands—an ideal escape from the busier shorelines.