The French Riviera’s boat tours range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious, with options for every style of traveler. Among the best: the Esterel Cliffs tour stands out for its dramatic red rock formations and excellent marine life viewing. Private yacht excursions, while pricier, deliver an intimate experience with local aperitifs and unmatched coastal views. Active travelers will appreciate the paddleboard adventures around hidden coves and islands, while budget-conscious visitors can enjoy excellent value on sunset cruises featuring regular dolphin sightings. Let’s look at our favorite boat tours along this stunning coastline.
Key Points
- Palmée Excursions offers a top-rated 5-star boat cruise to Esterel Cliffs and Islands with clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a dramatic red rock coastline.
- Exclusive paddleboard adventure around Porquerolles and Giens islands, with boat transfers to secret spots, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and refreshments.
- Private luxury sailing yacht cruise in Nice/Monaco with life jackets, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and a French aperitif in an intimate setting.
- Premium cruise and swimming experience featuring stunning coastline views of Cap Ferrat, Villefranche, and Nice, with French aperitifs, pastries, snacks, and drinks.
- Captivating sunset cruise with a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, including a selection of alcoholic beverages, snacks, swimming, and paddleboarding, with friendly service and stunning views.
Esterel Cliffs and Islands Boat Cruise and Snorkeling – French Riviera
The Esterel Cliffs and Islands Boat Cruise and Snorkeling experience offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the French Riviera.
Operating under the name Palmée Excursions, this highly rated 5-star tour takes adventurers to the Estérel region and its picturesque islands.
Priced at $69.70 per person, the excursion includes private transportation, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments.
With a maximum group size of 20, travelers can enjoy the clear aqua waters, vibrant marine life, and the dramatic red rock coastline.
Friendly, English-speaking guides enhance the experience, making this an excellent choice for families and those seeking an unforgettable day on the French Riviera.
Read our full review: Esterel Cliffs and Islands Boat Cruise and Snorkeling – French Riviera Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Paddle Board Around Porquerolles and Giens – Transfer by Boat.
Explore the picturesque Porquerolles and Giens islands on an exclusive paddleboard adventure.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 5.0-rated activity provides the perfect opportunity to discover secret spots while paddling around the islands. Transfers by boat grant access to remote areas.
You’ll be equipped with everything you need, including paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and refreshments. The tour runs daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and pickup is available at designated points. With moderate fitness required, this budget-friendly activity is an excellent way to learn about the beauty of the French Riviera.
Read our full review: Exclusive Paddle Board Around Porquerolles and Giens – Transfer by Boat. Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Private Cruise on a Luxury Sailing Yacht-Nice/Monaco
Embarking on an exclusive private cruise aboard a luxury sailing yacht in Nice/Monaco, guests will enjoy a 5.0-rated experience according to reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor.
The cruise includes essential amenities like life jackets, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and a French aperitif.
Convenience is ensured with a meeting point in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and round-trip transportation. Infants can join, and most travelers can participate.
Guests should note the skipper and fuel fees totaling €250 to be paid at check-in.
This private tour ensures an intimate experience, with only your group taking part.
Read our full review: Exclusive Private Cruise on a Luxury Sailing Yacht-Nice/Monaco Review
Book now: Check availability
Boat Tour Cruise Swimming Snorkeling Nice Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
A premium cruise and swimming experience awaits adventurous travelers in the picturesque French Riviera.
Set out on a 5.0-rated tour that takes you through the stunning coastline of Cap Ferrat, Villefranche, and Nice. Indulge in fresh French aperitifs, pastries, snacks, and drinks as you relax on the boat.
Enjoy the use of life jackets, floating noodles, beach towels, and snorkeling gear. The tour includes a bathroom onboard, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Prices start at €450 per person, with a €150 skipper fee unless you have a boat license. While non-refundable, this private tour offers an exclusive way to explore the French Riviera‘s beauty from the water.
Read our full review: Boat Tour Cruise Swimming Snorkeling Nice Saint Jean Cap Ferrat Review
Book now: Check availability
Boat Tour Cruise Along the Coast, Nice, Villefranche, Cap-Ferrat
Visitors eager to witness the French Riviera‘s coastal splendor can embark on a captivating boat tour that showcases the picturesque towns of Nice, Villefranche, and Cap-Ferrat.
The premium cruise includes swimming opportunities in Villefranche and Cap-Ferrat, and passengers will enjoy a brunch featuring fresh French pastries and aperitifs.
The tour is private, with only the group participating, and amenities like a stereo system, life jackets, and snorkeling gear are provided.
The meeting point is the boat gas station in St. Jean Cap Ferrat port, and the activity ends back at the same location.
Priced from $482.51 per person, the tour is non-refundable, and bookings are confirmed within 48 hours for last-minute reservations.
Read our full review: Boat Tour Cruise Along the Coast, Nice, Villefranche, Cap-Ferrat Review
Book now: Check availability
French Riviera Sunset Cruise
Witness the French Riviera’s captivating coastline transform under the glow of a setting sun on this enchanting sunset cruise. Priced from $116.15 per person, this new excursion for 2024 offers a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages, snacks, and the opportunity to swim and paddleboard. The knowledgeable host, Conor, is praised for his friendly service and attention to guest comfort.
With 100% positive reviews, this cruise promises stunning views, dolphin sightings, and a memorable sunset. Easily accessible by public transportation, this French Riviera excursion is a budget-friendly way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: French Riviera Sunset Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour companies allow passengers to bring their own snacks and drinks. This can be a budget-friendly way to enjoy the tour. However, it’s best to check the specific policies before the trip.
Do the Boat Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Many boat tour operators accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests should inquire about the options when booking their trip to ensure their needs are met. Some tours may offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals upon request.
Are the Boats Equipped With Life Jackets and Other Safety Gear?
Yes, the boats are equipped with necessary safety equipment like life jackets and flotation devices to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all passengers. Travelers can feel confident in the boat’s safety features.
Can I Bring My Own Camera or Video Equipment on the Tours?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own camera or video equipment on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Are the Boat Tours Dog-Friendly, and Can I Bring My Pet?
Most boat tour operators don’t allow pets on board for safety and hygiene reasons. However, some may accommodate well-behaved dogs with advance notice. It’s best to check with each company’s pet policy before booking to avoid disappointment.
The Sum Up
The French Riviera offers a variety of exciting boat tours and cruises, catering to different interests and budgets. From exploring the Esterel Cliffs and Islands to enjoying a sunset cruise, visitors can discover the stunning coastline and islands in a memorable way. Whether you’re seeking an exclusive private yacht experience or a more affordable group tour, there’s a boat tour to suit your needs.