Private sailing excursion & Provencal picnic

This private sailing excursion in Cannes offers a relaxed yet immersive way to experience the shimmering coast and nearby islands. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a memorable day on the water.

What’s great about this experience? First, the personalized touch of a private boat ensures flexibility and intimacy. Second, sailing on a vintage Jeanneau Sangria with expert guidance promises a blend of adventure and local charm. Lastly, the thoughtfully curated Provencal picnic, featuring homemade dishes and rosé, elevates the whole outing.

A potential consideration is that this tour relies on good weather for the full experience, with cancellations possible in poor conditions.

This tour suits travelers seeking a blend of leisure, authentic cuisine, and scenic sailing—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a customized day out in the French Riviera.

Good To Know

• Private and Customized: The tour is exclusive, allowing for tailored experiences and direct interaction with your guide.
• Authentic Savoring: Enjoy a homemade Provencal picnic with vegetables, anchovies, tzatziki, rosé, and fresh bread.
• Active & Relaxing: Participate in sailing maneuvers or simply relax, swim, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
• Stunning Scenery: Sail past Cannes and explore the serene Île Sainte-Marguerite, with opportunities to hike or snorkel.
• Expert Guide: Maxime’s passion and knowledge make navigation and local insights engaging and friendly.
• Value for Money: At around $130 per person for a 5-6 hour experience, it offers a well-rounded, intimate taste of the Riviera.

The Itinerary in Detail

Port de Cannes & Departure

The adventure begins at the Old Port of Cannes—a bustling hub that buzzes with maritime life. From the Jetée Albert Edouard, you’ll set sail on a vintage Jeanneau Sangria sailboat. The departure point is easily accessible, especially since the tour is near public transit, making it a convenient start for most travelers.

Cruising to Île Sainte-Marguerite

The first leg involves a scenic cruise along Cannes’ coast, with the chance to snap some photos of the luxurious villas and rugged coastline. This segment, lasting about an hour, takes you from the lively port to the peaceful Île Sainte-Marguerite, part of the Lérins Islands.

Excursion on Île Sainte-Marguerite

Once on the island, you’ll have around four hours to explore. The main highlight is the anchor picnic, which is more than just a meal—it’s a crafted experience. The homemade dishes, including fresh vegetables, anchovy and tzatziki sauces, and a crisp rosé, make for a delightful midday break.

Reviewers emphasize how Maxime, the guide, is attentive and flexible—he tailor-made the experience to fit guests’ preferences. For example, some travelers enjoyed walking around the island’s scenic trails or visiting the eco-museum, which is free to explore and offers insights into local ecology and history.

Snorkeling & Water Activities

The tour makes excellent use of the crystal-clear waters. Snorkel gear, masks, and bath towels are all included, turning the day into a water lover’s paradise. Multiple reviewers mentioned spending significant time swimming and snorkeling, with some even discovering the seabed using provided masks.

One guest recounted, “We got the chance to swim twice and a nice lunch on the boat of fresh vegetables and a baguette,” highlighting how the setting makes for excellent swimming and relaxation.

Sailing & Participation

For those craving a hands-on experience, Maxime is happy to let you participate in sailing maneuvers—perfect for adventure-seekers. Whether you’re a novice or experienced sailor, this interaction adds a layer of engagement to the trip.

Return to Cannes

As the tour winds down, you’ll sail back into Cannes’ Old Port. The experience is designed to be leisurely, giving you plenty of time to absorb the scenic views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized & Private Experience

Unlike crowded boat trips, this tour is exclusively for your group. This intimacy means Maxime can adapt the itinerary based on weather, your interests, or spontaneous suggestions. Several reviews highlight the friendliness and flexibility of the guide, who was described as “incredibly friendly” and “tailored the experience to our preferences.”

Authentic Savoring & Local Flavors

The homemade picnic, with a focus on fresh vegetables, anchovies, tzatziki, and rosé, captures the essence of Provençal cuisine. Guests appreciated the quality and the personal touch, such as a guest noting, “the lunch spread with wine and beverages was great.”

Scenic Sailing & Water Fun

Sailing past Cannes provides fantastic views of the coastline and the Lérins Islands, which are often missed by typical tours. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and the opportunity to swim in clear waters makes this a well-rounded aquatic adventure.

Knowledgeable Guide & Flexibility

Maxime’s reputation for sharing sailing expertise and local insights enriches the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Maxime shared his passion for sailing and made us feel at home on his boat,” emphasizing how this personal approach elevates the trip.

Excellent Value

For about $130 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package: private sailing, authentic picnic, snorkeling, and personalized service. The duration of 5-6 hours ensures a full day’s escape with plenty of time to relax and explore.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Expect a day filled with gentle sailing, scenic views, and authentic Provençal flavors. The boat itself, a restored vintage Jeanneau Sangria, adds a touch of maritime charm. It’s intimate enough for engaging conversations and relaxed enough for soaking up the sun.

The itinerary’s flexibility means that if the wind isn’t ideal, you might spend more time swimming than sailing, which most guests find to be a perk rather than a downside. As one reviewer put it, “We weren’t so lucky with the wind, but spent more time swimming, and it was still a fantastic day.”

Practical Details

The tour begins at the Esplanade Pantiero and ends back there, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as opportunities for swimming and walking are included but not strenuous.

While sunscreen isn’t provided, guests should bring their own to protect against the Mediterranean sun. If seasickness is a concern, bringing medication is advisable, especially during high season when boat traffic can increase.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private sailing trip is ideal for couples seeking a romantic day, small groups wanting a personalized adventure, or anyone interested in combining sailing, water activities, and local cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences over generic tours and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience involves sailing, swimming, and walking, so children with moderate physical fitness would likely enjoy it, especially with parental supervision.

What is included in the picnic?
The picnic features vegetables served with anchovy and tzatziki sauces, along with a bottle of rosé wine for guests over 18. Dive masks, towels, and snorkeling equipment are also provided.

Can I participate in sailing maneuvers?
Yes, the guide is happy to share sailing responsibilities, making it suitable for adventure lovers who want a hands-on experience.

Is this tour private?
Absolutely. Only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored and intimate experience.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour requires good weather for the best experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including sailing, exploring the islands, swimming, and enjoying the picnic.

Is the tour accessible via public transport?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from different parts of Cannes.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing tour with a Provencal picnic provides an authentic, flexible way to enjoy the Cannes coastline. The blend of scenic sailing, water activities, and homemade food makes it a standout option for those wanting an intimate escape.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, craving a peaceful day on the water, or eager to savor Provençal flavors in a stunning setting, this experience delivers. The knowledgeable guide, Maxime, ensures a warm, personalized touch that turns an ordinary day into a cherished memory.

Best suited for couples, small groups, and water lovers, this tour offers excellent value—combining adventure, relaxation, and local culinary delights into one seamless package.