THE FRENCH RIVIERA · FRENCH RIVIERA BOAT TOURS
The coast reads completely differently from the water: the villas of Cap Ferrat, the Mala caves, the red rock of the Estérel. These 15 run from one-hour harbour cruises to half-day catamarans, each priced, timed and clear about whether swimming is part of the deal.
One-hour Nice sightseeing cruise to Villefranche Bay, with French and English narration, plus views of Promenade des Anglais and Cap-Ferrat.
“The crew was excellent! Professional, friendly and knowledgeable. The tour was in French and English. Very relaxing sightseeing cruise, we were lucky with the perfect weather. Bring cash if you want to purchase a drink and for the gratitudes.”
A 1-hour guided boat cruise from Nice with English commentary, taking in Promenade views, Villefranche Bay, Cap Ferrat, and more.
“Outstanding cruise that was informative and interesting. We saw all the important points of interest as well as a few hidden gems.”
2.5-hour Black Tenders boat trip from Cannes to Estérel calanques, red-rock coves, Cap Roux and swim stops. $88.
“Julian was absolutely brilliant and we had an amazing time, especially our 8 yr old! Not to be missed if you're considering a water activity, worth every penny!”
Speedboat from Nice to Mala Caves for snorkeling and a swim, then explore colorful Villefranche-sur-Mer on a small-group tour.
“JB and Leo were so much fun and so funny! We loved seeing the sights, swimming in crystal clear waters and plenty of walking time in Villefranche! 🥰”
Fast RIB cruise from Nice to Monaco with a local captain, coastal views, quick swim breaks, and classic Riviera stops for about 2.5 hours.
“Our tour guide was amazing! I forget his name but it was on the 6th of July at 2pm in nice! He made the day so special for us.”
3-hour Cannes catamaran cruise from the Old Port to Île Sainte-Marguerite, with snorkeling, paddleboard or kayak, and sun deck time.
“This was absolutely perfect! The scenery was amazing, there was plenty of equipment for everyone, and they even had snacks at the end. I would do this again and again.”
Sunset cruise from Nice to Cap de Nice with wine, homemade Niçois snacks, and a swim in calm Villefranche Bay.
“I absolutely loved it! We had a great guide Paul, he made the trip even better. We went for a little sail to Villefranche and he explained lots of things about the coastline and amazing houses. Then we had a swim, rose in the water and a local snack. And finished the evening watching the sunset - can’t wish for a better way to end my holidays (last day)!”
2-hour French Riviera boat cruise from Nice with a snorkeling and swimming stop in Villefranche Bay near St Jean Cap Ferrat.
“Very nice trip. We had a lovely view from the boat of the coast, and the snorkelling was safe and fun. There are a few jelly fish (as expected for this coast and this time of year), but these are easy to spot from the water. One person was stung, but the crew dealt with this calmly and professionally. One suggestion for improvement: please improve access to the boat from the jetty or clarify description for the tour - access is via a steep ladder down to the boat from the jetty”
Private French Riviera solar boat cruise from Beaulieu-sur-Mer, silent 100% electric ride with a guide, swim stops, and chance to steer.
“My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the boat cruise. The captain was very friendly and provided us with a brief history of some of the buildings along the coast. I even had the chance to steer the boat for a few minutes. I highly recommend this activity to anyone visiting Nice.”
Speedboat tour from Nice to Mala Caves in Eze with snorkel gear, plus Cap-Ferrat and Villefranche bay views, small group onboard fun.
“I adored Jean-Baptiste! He’s very knowledgeable kept us all safe and was able to ensure everyone in different levels of swimming could still enjoy the Malta Cave!! I highly recommend this tour it was in both English and French”
Ride a round-trip ferry from Nice to St Tropez, cruise the French Riviera, and spend a full day exploring town, port, beaches, and Citadelle.
“It is well organised but did not leave a minute to soon. Staff were very helpful. Best to get your tickets before hand. Which we did.”
Half-day Cannes catamaran cruise to the Lérins Islands with snorkeling, paddleboards, and a cold buffet lunch plus rosé.
“The half day catamaran tour was worth every penny! It was a little bit confusing on where to go, the ticket didn’t explain but there are two big counters you go up to and we were pointed in the right direction. Make sure to bring a towel and sunscreen. The views were beautiful, I wish the captain would’ve given us some information on the area. Lunch was provided and was definitely a lot of food. There was pasta, chicken, pizza, and dessert. Make sure you get on the boat early because the best seats get taken first. Drinks are available for purchase so bring cash. There are pool noodles, snorkels,…”
Luxury catamaran cruise from Cannes with a real Mediterranean swim stop near the Lérins Islands, plus snorkeling gear and paddleboards.
“Great trip. Loved the laid back atmosphere on the boat and then the time to swim/paddle around the boat when we stopped. Boat not to crowded and meals above expectations. A little confusion when boarding as many other boats are boarding at similar time and difficult to find the right gate, but aside from that everything was great.”
Private Dufour 382 sailing from Cannes for up to 6, with SeaBob, snorkeling, paddle time, snacks, pizza, and summer fireworks views.
“Amazing day out on the water. Great service. We relaxed, snorkeled, saw underwater statues. enjoyed pizza delivered on the water, and had amazing rose and champagne. I highly recommend.”
Small-group boat tour from Cannes into the Estérel Massif with turquoise coves, swimming stops, sea-only cave views, and English commentary.
“We loved Stephan he was the best captain & we loved our tour of the coastline as well as the 2 snorkle swim stops we took. I would do it again!”
Decide what kind of day it is first. The ranking sorts out the rest.
