Want turquoise water without the big-tour hassle? This 3.5-hour Lerins Islands cruise from Cannes runs on Eric and Celia’s 11m sailboat Ulysse, with time at anchor between the islands and gear for paddling and snorkeling.

I really like how small the group is (max 6), which makes the trip feel calm and personal. I also like the practical onboard setup: cushioned cockpit seating under a bimini, plus space up front to sunbathe. The main thing to consider is that your sailing time can depend on the wind—some days you may motor more than you expect.

Key things I’d plan around

• Max 6 passengers means you’re not packed in, and the hosts can actually help you enjoy the water time.
• Swim-at-anchor between the Lerins Islands is the whole point: clear water, hanging out, and taking breaks on the boat.
• Paddle, masks, and snorkels provided so you can jump in without shopping first.
• Food and drinks are part of the vibe: charcuterie/snack spreads and drinks like wine/rosé show up during the cruise.
• It’s a sailboat trip, but wind varies—think sail-or-motor rather than sail-only.

Lerins Islands from Cannes: the payoff is simple

Cannes is famous for glitzy beaches, but this cruise gives you the other side of the Riviera: open water, anchored time between the Lerins, and that big-change-in-view feeling that only happens when you’re away from the shoreline.

This trip is short on purpose. At about 3 hours 30 minutes, it fits easily into a Cannes day when you don’t want a full-day schedule. The sweet spot here is that you’re not just passing by—you’re spending time stopped, so you can actually swim, paddle around, and relax on the boat.

And because it’s run by Eric and Celia on their own 11m sailboat Ulysse, the experience feels less like a production and more like a day out on a family boat.

Finding the boat at IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes (and boarding tips)

The meeting point is at IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes, Jetée Albert Edouard, 06400 Cannes. The location is close to public transport, which helps if you don’t want to wrestle with parking.

Here’s what I’d take from the experience: I’d give myself extra time to get my bearings. One of the frustrations people noted is that the meeting spot can be hard to spot if you arrive late or if there aren’t obvious signs. Using the provided location details early on helps.

Another small but real detail: you may need to take your shoes off before boarding. It’s not a big deal, but it’s worth knowing so you’re not doing it mid-stride. If you have socks you’re okay with being on a boat deck, you’ll be happier.

What you get on board the Ulysse (cushions, bimini, and space)

Comfort on a small sailboat matters, especially when you’ll be hanging out near the islands. On Ulysse, you’re not just standing around exposed to sun.

You have:

• A cushioned cockpit with a table, protected by a bimini (shade when the sun is doing its thing)
• Deck space at the front where you can sunbathe or relax

This matters because the day is built around downtime. You’ll likely spend time lounging, then switching to swimming/paddle/snorkel when you feel like it. A shaded seating area turns a hot day into a pleasant one.

Swim time gear: paddles, masks, snorkels

This is a cruise where the water activities aren’t an add-on. Paddle, masks, and snorkels are provided, so you can bring only the basics—mainly your comfort items like sunscreen.

In practice, that means you can do any mix you want:

• A gentle paddle around while the boat is at anchor
• Mask-and-snorkel time when you want to see more underwater
• Simply jump in for a swim and cool off

A good tip if you’re snorkeling for the first time: keep your first session short and close to the boat. Even without a “deep dive” plan, the Lerins area is made for quick, satisfying water breaks.

The sailing plan: anchor between the Lerins Islands

The itinerary is essentially one big theme: Lerins Islands. You’ll meet up in Cannes, head out, and then spend your real time stopped between islands at anchor.

This is where the reviews line up with the promise. The anchor time is about:

• Seeing the coastline from a different angle
• Staying in the water zone long enough to actually enjoy it
• Getting the turquoise-water moment people come for

It’s not a speed tour. It’s a “slow down and look” outing—exactly what you want on the French Riviera when you’re tired of being rushed.

When wind is light: sailing vs motoring

Because it’s a sailboat, the best-case scenario is wind-powered sailing. But there’s a reality on the water: some days the wind just doesn’t show up.

On those days, the trip may run more by engine than by sail. That doesn’t automatically ruin the experience, because you’re still getting the anchored swim time and the island views. Still, if you’re booking specifically for sailing performance, adjust your expectations and think sailboat outing, not sail-only spectacle.

Food, drinks, and the onboard vibe

One of the most praised parts is how well you’re looked after during the stop. You’ll get snacks, plus drinks such as wine/rosé and soft drinks/water depending on what’s served that day.

A lot of people highlight the charcuterie-style platter/snack and the relaxed, friendly hosting style. The tone is very “family boat day” rather than stiff or overly formal. You might also catch stories about the islands during the time you’re out there, which turns the scenery time into something you can connect to.

A note on music and the mood

This is worth mentioning because it can matter to how you enjoy the ride. Some people liked the music and upbeat atmosphere. One person specifically said it felt too loud for a quiet sailing mood.

So here’s my advice: if you want a calmer, quieter vibe, bring it up early. Since the hosts are the ones running the day, they can often adjust to what you prefer.

Seasickness and choppy conditions: plan like a grown-up

This isn’t a warning story, but it’s practical. One review notes that conditions can get choppy, and another mentions seasickness for someone on board.

If you’re sensitive to motion, don’t gamble. Bring your usual remedy and consider keeping your eyes on the horizon if you start feeling off. The boat is small, so you’ll feel the sea more than on a big cruise ship.

Who this cruise suits best

I think this trip is a great fit if you want:

• A short, affordable-ish water outing compared to larger tours
• A swim stop with gear provided
• A small group, where you can actually talk with Eric and Celia
• A relaxed pace rather than a rigid checklist of stops

It’s also a solid option for families, since the day is run as a family operation. That said, if you’re looking for a totally quiet couples-only sailing experience, you may prefer something designed to be adult-only.

Price and value: why $157.28 can feel fair

At $157.28 per person for roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, the key is what you’re actually paying for.

You’re not just paying for the boat ride. The tour includes:

• Fuel/petrol, skipper, and hostess (so you’re not hit with surprise costs for the essentials)
• Paddle, masks, and snorkels
• A snack/charcuterie style offering, plus drinks like wine/rosé and other beverages (as served during the cruise)
• Time at anchor between the Lerins Islands, which is the part most people really want

On small-boat experiences in the South of France, the price can easily jump. Here, the value is helped by two things: the group is small (max 6), and the essentials are included up front. You can show up, swim, eat, drink, and relax without constantly asking what costs extra.

That’s why people rate it highly—this feels like paying for a good day on the water, not paying for paperwork and logistics.

Practical tips before you go

Here’s what I’d do to set yourself up for an easy, good day:

• Pack sunscreen and a bath towel (the hosts specifically suggest both)
• Wear swim-friendly clothing you don’t mind getting sandy or damp
• If you get motion sick, bring your remedy
• Arrive early enough to find the meeting spot without stress
• If you care about music volume, say so early rather than waiting

Also, because it’s a mobile-ticket experience, set aside a moment before you leave to access your ticket on your phone.

Should you book the Lerins Islands cruise on the Ulysse?

If you want a short, small-group cruise with real time in the water, I’d book it. The combination of anchor time between the Lerins, provided snorkeling/paddle gear, and the easygoing hosting style is exactly the kind of Riviera day that feels worth it.

I’d hesitate only if sailing performance is your top priority. Since wind can shift, you might motor at times. And if you’re very sensitive to a party-style atmosphere (music volume), it’s smart to clarify your preference early.

Overall, this is the kind of experience that works best when you treat it like a relaxed half-day on the sea, not a “must-do sailing show.”

FAQ

How long is the Lerins Islands cruise from Cannes?

The tour runs for about 3 hours 30 minutes.

Where do I meet the crew in Cannes?

You meet at IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes, Jetée Albert Edouard, 06400 Cannes, France. The cruise ends back at the meeting point.

How big is the group?

The boat has a maximum of 6 travelers, so it stays intimate.

What’s included in the ticket price?

The ticket covers petrol, the skipper, and the hostess, and it includes paddle, masks, and snorkels. Based on what’s served during the cruise, you can also expect snack/charcuterie and drinks.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No. Masks and snorkels are provided, along with paddles.

What should I bring with me?

Think sunscreen and a bath towel.

Is a mobile ticket used?

Yes, it’s a mobile ticket experience.

Is it a true sailing trip?

It’s on an 11m sailboat, but wind can affect how much you sail versus motor. You should plan for a sailboat day where sailing time can vary.

What if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How does confirmation work after booking?

You receive confirmation at the time of booking.