Cruise of the 2 Islands: Porquerolles & Port-Cros with stops

Imagine gliding across the sparkling waters of the South of France, surrounded by rugged cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear coves. This cruise promises to do just that, offering a full-day adventure around two of the most celebrated islands in the Var coastline. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed information and glowing reviews paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What really stands out? The small, eco-friendly hybrid boat that keeps the experience intimate and quiet, allowing you to soak in the scenery without engine noise. The generous stopovers, with about 4.5 hours on Porquerolles and 1.5 hours on Port-Cros, give ample time to explore at your own pace. And, of course, the knowledgeable guides who share intriguing insights about this unique archipelago.

The only caveat? The cruise is weather-dependent, so a sudden change in conditions might impact your plans. Still, for lovers of nature, history, and a touch of adventure, this trip offers incredible value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic beauty, and authentic local charm.

Good To Know

• Intimate Experience: Small boat with a max of 50 passengers ensures a relaxed, personal atmosphere.
• Eco-Friendly Travel: Hybrid propulsion boat combines electric silence with traditional power for greener cruising.
• Rich Content: Guided commentary with written translations helps you understand the islands’ stories in multiple languages.
• Ample Free Time: Significant stops in both islands allow for independent exploration or relaxation.
• Stunning Views: Expect close-up sights of cliffs, coves, beaches, vineyards, and forests from the sea.
• Authentic Insight: Knowledgeable crew and guides add depth to the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The cruise begins at the Latitude Verte ticket office at the port of Bormes-les-Mimosas, called La Favière. The location is easy to find, right at the port entrance, and the check-in process seems straightforward as per reviews — punctuality is appreciated. The boat itself is a hybrid vessel, which adds a modern, eco-conscious element to your day, reducing noise and emissions, making the journey more peaceful.

The Voyage to Porquerolles

The first leg, a 70-minute cruise to Porquerolles, is a highlight. Travelers often comment on the beautiful coastlines and the feeling of sailing close to the cliffs and coves, providing a perspective that’s hard to match from land. The live commentary, available in French with written translations (English, German, Dutch, Italian), enriches the experience, offering stories about the island’s history, geology, and landscape features.

One traveler mentioned, “The crew’s commentary was very informative, and the electric boat was so quiet that I could really enjoy the sounds of the sea and nature around me.” The panoramic views of Porquerolles’ north coast, with its white beaches and lush greenery, give a tantalizing preview of the island’s beauty.

Free Time on Porquerolles (Approximately 4.5 Hours)

Once docked, you’ll have plenty of time to explore at your leisure. Many visitors appreciate the flexibility to choose activities based on their interests. Walking through the picturesque village, cycling to Notre-Dame beach, or visiting the Carmignac Foundation’s art space are popular options. The foundation combines contemporary art with lush natural surroundings—a real treat for culture lovers.

Others prefer a more relaxed approach, lounging on the sands or trying local wines at vineyards nearby. Reviewers note that the free time is sufficient to enjoy a good meal, take photos, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Crossing to Port-Cros

In early afternoon, the cruise departs for Port-Cros, a rugged, protected national park since 1963. The journey itself, lasting about an hour, offers more opportunities for sightseeing and commentary. You’ll learn about the island’s wild landscapes and why it’s considered the “heart” of the park. The guides’ insights help you appreciate the natural significance of the area, and many reviews mention the crew’s knowledgeable and friendly demeanor.

Port-Cros Stopover (Approximately 1.5 Hours)

Port-Cros offers a different vibe—less developed, more untouched. You might explore the small harbor filled with colorful boats or stroll through flower-filled streets. For history buffs, the Fort du Moulin perched on the heights provides panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s past. With only 1.5 hours, most visitors opt for a quick walk and some photos, but in that time, many find it enough to get a real sense of the island’s charm.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The return trip lasts around 35 minutes, giving you another opportunity to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the day. Many travelers note the boat’s comfortable seating and the peaceful electric-powered cruising, which enhances the overall relaxing vibe.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and What It Includes

At $64 per person, this cruise offers significant value given the length of stopovers and guided commentary. The price covers the hybrid boat cruise, live commentary, written translations, and the generous free time on both islands. Additional expenses like food, drinks, or activities (biking, entrance fees) are not included, so planning your own meals or rentals might be necessary if you want a full day of exploration.

Transportation and Accessibility

The departure point is clearly located at the port of La Favière, with easy access for most travelers. The boat is wheelchair accessible, although some uneven terrain on the islands could pose challenges. It’s advisable to bring motion sickness prevention if you’re prone to seasickness, especially with the open sea crossing.

Group Size & Atmosphere

With a maximum capacity of 50 passengers, the experience remains intimate. Smaller groups mean more room for personal space and better opportunities to chat with crew or other travelers. The reviews emphasize the friendly, professional crew, who are eager to share knowledge and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Weather Considerations

The cruise is weather-dependent, and a sudden change in conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellation. Travelers who are flexible or love spontaneous outdoor adventures will enjoy the unpredictability — but it’s wise to check the forecast before booking.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides as a key strength. One said, “The crew was very professional and friendly,” while others appreciated the “pünktliche” (punctual) service and the relaxed atmosphere. Winfried from Germany called the islands “tolle Inseln, tolle Landschaft,” highlighting just how spectacular the scenery is from the boat.

The comments also reveal that many travelers found the free time on each island adequate for a quick but meaningful experience. The boat’s electric engine was praised for making the journey peaceful, allowing passengers to really take in the sounds of the sea.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and families wanting a relaxed yet enriching day. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate small-group adventures and want to explore two islands without feeling rushed. If you’re a conscious traveler, the hybrid boat’s eco-friendly design adds extra appeal.

However, if you prefer a more guided, structured tour with specific activities or visits to paid attractions, you might want to explore other options. It’s best for those comfortable with independent exploration within the given timeframes.

This cruise to Porquerolles and Port-Cros offers an authentic, scenic way to experience two of the most beautiful islands in the South of France. The combination of a small, eco-conscious vessel, engaging guides, and ample free time makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of relaxation, exploration, and natural beauty.

The value for money is evident when you consider the length of stops, the guided commentary, and the intimate boat experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine comfort with discovery, away from crowded bus tours or overly structured itineraries.

If you’re after a genuine, scenic escape with knowledgeable guides and flexible exploration time, this cruise could be a highlight of your French Riviera adventure.

Is the cruise suitable for small children?
Most reviews suggest the boat is comfortable and accessible, but the open sea crossing might be less suitable for very young children or those sensitive to motion sickness. It’s best to consider your family’s comfort and bring motion sickness prevention if needed.

How long is the total cruise duration?
The entire day lasts about 8-9 hours, including the boat crossings, island stops, and travel time. The cruise itself provides roughly 4.5 hours on Porquerolles and 1.5 hours on Port-Cros.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something on the islands, as there are opportunities to eat locally.

Is the boat comfortable and environmentally friendly?
Yes, the hybrid propulsion boat is designed for both comfort and eco-conscious travel, combining electric silent mode with traditional engines.

Can I rent bikes or visit attractions on the islands?
Bicycle rentals and entrance fees for attractions like the Fondation Carmignac are not included, but you might find options available on Porquerolles if you choose to explore further.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent, so if conditions are unfavorable, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled. Check the forecast and confirm your booking policies.

Whether it’s your first time exploring the Var coastline or a return visit, this island cruise promises a delightful mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and relaxing freedom.

You can check if your dates are available here: