Cannes: Private Boat Trip to Lerins Islands & Cap d’Antibes

Boat time changes the Côte d’Azur. On a private boat from Camille Rayon Marina, you cruise from Cannes toward the Lerins Islands and Cap d’Antibes with a skipper, then stop for swimming and island time. It’s a calm, practical way to see the Riviera without wrestling crowds on land.

I love the water gear: snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, life jackets, and swim noodles make it easy to try the sea at your pace. I also like having Philippe as captain, because his storytelling turns the coastline into something you actually understand, not just watch.

The main catch is cost and logistics: the stated price does not include the skipper fee, which is €200 paid on the boat, and you’ll need to get yourself to Camille Rayon Marina.

Key highlights you should care about

• Camille Rayon Marina launch keeps the trip simple from Cannes and Antibes
• Snorkeling gear plus paddleboards are included, so you do not need to rent anything
• Stops are yours to shape, with time to swim, anchor, relax, and stroll the islands
• Lerins Islands and Cap d’Antibes give you both island charm and classic Riviera views
• Philippe’s local guidance adds context as you cruise, anchor, and head back
• Food and drinks are allowed onboard, and you can use marina options or on-water delivery boats

Private boat from Cannes: the real reason this feels worth it

This trip works because it changes the rhythm of the day. Instead of squeezing in viewpoints between trains, lines, and parking, you get to live on the water. That means more time where the light is best, and fewer hours spent going from one “must-see” to the next.

I especially like that it stays flexible. You can plan for a couple of swim stops, add a short walk on one of the Lerins Islands, or simply anchor and hang out. The small group setup matters too, with room for up to 5 passengers plus the skipper, so it does not feel like you are part of a moving crowd.

One more practical note I appreciate: the skipper has to handle the navigation and timing. Your job is to show up, bring swim stuff, and decide how active you want to be. Philippe is the kind of captain who also keeps things organized and safe, including for families with young kids.

Where you meet and how the day starts smoothly

The meeting point is Camille Rayon Marina. It’s reachable by car or public transport from both Cannes and Antibes, so you are not dealing with a remote starting location.

Before you go, the skipper will message you shortly before departure with details about the exact meeting location and time, plus weather conditions. The simplest move here is to check your messages. Weather on the water can change plans, and you want the update quickly.

Once you meet, you get to know the boat. The pilothouse boat includes a large cockpit with storage, passenger seats and a table, plus a fore-cabin and a swimming platform. In plain terms, it’s set up for comfort, not just transportation.

Also keep in mind the “small but real” rules: high-heeled shoes are not allowed. If you want to roam around casually, wear practical footwear.

Cruising the Golfe-Juan coast to Cap d’Antibes

A big part of the appeal is simply watching the coast roll by from the sea. From Cannes, the route passes the Golfe-Juan coast, with views over the water toward Juan-les-Pins, Antibes, and the classic Riviera shoreline.

Cap d’Antibes is where the scenery turns into postcard territory. You get wide coastal angles you just cannot get from street level. If you care about photos, this is the stage where you can get them without crowds in your frame.

What makes this leg feel good is the pace. You are not sprinting between stops. The cruising time also gives you moments to relax, talk, and get your bearings. Many people end up staying on the move just long enough to feel the day is progressing, then they jump into the first swim stop when the water and light are right.

If you’re traveling with kids or someone who gets nervous around the water, this part can be a gentle warm-up. You arrive, settle in, and only then start active time.

Lerins Islands: your island stroll, your swim spot

The itinerary focuses on the Lerins Islands and the nearby coast, with time to swim near anchor spots and then stroll on one of the islands. In practice, you choose how much walking you want versus how much time you want in the water.

People often pair visits to the two main islands, Saint-Honorat and Saint-Marguerite. Saint-Honorat is known for its monastery setting, which gives that “quiet island” feeling. Saint-Marguerite offers a different vibe and is a common spot for swims.

The value here is the variety in a single outing. Cap d’Antibes gives you dramatic Riviera views, while the Lerins Islands shift the mood toward calmer, older-feeling scenery. And because the trip is private, Philippe can adjust timing so you do not feel rushed.

A small consideration: island time depends on how you plan your swim stops. If you over-book your ambition early, you may end up with less walking time. The fix is simple: decide up front if you want one short stroll or a longer wander.

Snorkel and paddleboard time: what the included gear changes

The included gear is not just a checkbox. It changes what you can do during anchored time. You get snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, life jackets, and swim noodles, plus drinking water onboard.

That means you can do a low-effort water session even if you are not a strong swimmer. You can float, snorkel casually, or paddle around close to the boat. Philippe also gives clear instructions, which helps a lot if you are first-timers.

Some swim stops in this area are associated with the underwater sculpture area people call the Eco’ Musée, with head statues on the seabed. If conditions allow and the skipper chooses that kind of stop, snorkeling becomes more than “seeing fish.” You get something sculptural down below.

One practical safety detail I liked hearing about: Philippe can handle minor sea surprises. A review noted he had white vinegar on hand for a jellyfish sting, which is the kind of calm, prepared response you hope for when you are letting kids explore the water.

Bottom line: the gear plus the skipper’s guidance turns swimming into an activity you can actually manage. It is easier than hunting rentals, harder to mess up, and more fun than just floating.

Food and drinks onboard: simple choices that keep you relaxed

Food and drinks are permitted onboard, but they are not included in the tour price. What you can do is keep the day easy while still eating well.

You can use restaurants at the marina and on the islands. You can also take advantage of on-water delivery boats for snacks, ice cream, and drinks. In at least one case, pizza delivery right to the boat was part of the fun, which shows how casual and “live on the water” this can feel.

You can bring your own picnic too. That works especially well for families or anyone who wants predictable, non-stop fueling. Just plan storage and keep it sensible for a day on open water.

A practical tip: bring cash. Even if you are not buying much, cash is handy for quick purchases, tips, or small extras when you are out on the islands.

How long you should book: 3 hours vs 6 hours

The duration ranges from 3 to 6 hours, and you can choose based on how active you want the day to be. Short trips fit best when you want the highlights and plan to keep the rest of the vacation schedule open.

A 3-hour option can work well if you only need one swim stop and a brief island stroll, or if your group wants to be on the water mainly for views and photos. If you have kids under the “still needs entertainment” age range, shorter can keep the day from feeling like it drags.

I’d lean toward the longer outing if you want more water time. Reviews repeatedly mention that people wished they had booked the full day because there was so much to do, especially with snorkeling and paddleboarding. With more time, Philippe can space out stops so you are not rushing from one activity to the next.

If you are debating, use your group energy level as the deciding factor. Calm groups usually love the extra hour or two. Restless groups might enjoy leaving while they still feel fresh.

Price and value: what you really get for $342 per group

The listed price is $342 per group for up to 5 passengers, plus the skipper. That is the key value point: you are paying for a private boat and a captain’s time, not just a seat on a crowded tour.

Then there’s the skipper fee: €200 paid on the boat. So your real day cost is the base price plus that on-site skipper charge. I’d plan on that early so the budget does not get a surprise once you’re already dressed for the water.

What justifies the price is not only the boat. It’s the flexibility, the included water gear, and the personalized pacing. In a city full of guided tours, you are buying time on the coast with stops that can fit your priorities, whether that means more swimming or more walking.

It also helps that the reviews emphasize safety and comfort. Philippe’s approach comes up again and again, including how he adjusts instruction for kids and how he keeps the mood relaxed. For many families, that peace of mind is a big part of the value.

Practical tips that make the day easier

A few small things make this smoother.

Bring swimwear and a towel. Pack weather-appropriate clothing too, because conditions can shift once you’re offshore. If you plan to eat, plan your snacks and consider the storage space onboard.

Wear footwear that is easy to manage around a boat. High-heeled shoes are not allowed, and you’ll be happier in something that won’t slip or ruin the comfort of your day.

Also, plan around messaging from your skipper. The departure details can depend on weather. You will get the update shortly before the tour, so keeping an eye on your phone is the easiest way to avoid confusion.

Finally, if you have a toddler or a young child, this type of trip can work when the skipper sets expectations early. Philippe is described as patient and calm with kids, including toddlers. Still, follow his guidance on entering the water and using the included life jackets.

Who this boat trip fits best

This experience suits a couple, a family with kids, or a small group. The max capacity is 5 passengers plus skipper, so it’s intimate and you can actually have a conversation.

It’s a strong choice if you want a Riviera day that feels authentic and relaxed. You get sea views, real time for swimming, and island time without the usual “on and off, next stop” stress.

It is not a fit for everyone. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it is not for children under 3 years old. If you fall into either category, you’ll want to choose a different kind of experience.

Should you book this Cannes boat trip to Lerins Islands and Cap d’Antibes?

I’d book if your vacation includes one or two “I want the coast on a different angle” days. This tour delivers exactly that, plus the water activities that make it feel like more than a sightseeing loop.

Book it if you care about flexibility and want to set your own pace. The included snorkeling and paddleboarding gear means you can turn anchor time into an actual activity, and Philippe’s local stories help you feel connected to what you are seeing.

Hold off or reconsider if you do not want to factor in the additional €200 skipper fee paid on the boat. Also, if your group cannot handle basic time on a boat and water entry rules, choose a different format.

If you do book, do one smart thing: pick the trip length based on how long your group will stay excited about swimming and exploring. Most people are happiest when they plan for enough water time to actually enjoy it, not just to say they tried.

FAQ

How much does the Cannes private boat trip cost?

The price is $342 per group, for up to 5 passengers plus the skipper.

Is the skipper fee included in the $342 price?

No. A skipper fee of €200 must be paid on the boat.

How long is the private boat trip?

The duration is 3 to 6 hours, depending on availability and the start time you choose.

What’s included in the tour?

The tour includes the boat, snorkeling gear, a stand-up paddleboard, life jackets, swim noodles, and drinking water.

What is not included?

Food and drinks are not included, and transportation to or from the marina is not included.

Where do we meet the skipper?

You start at Camille Rayon Marina. Your skipper will contact you shortly before the tour with meeting details and weather conditions, so check your messages.

Can we bring food or drinks?

Food and drinks are permitted onboard, but they are not included. You can use restaurants at the marina and on the islands, and on-water delivery boats may provide snacks, ice cream, and drinks.

What should we bring for the trip?

Bring swimwear, a towel, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable for young children or wheelchair users?

It is not suitable for children under 3 years old, and it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.