Island hopping · ISLAND DAY TRIPS IN FRANCE
Good island day trips in France sell out weeks ahead in high season and the early departures go first. Below: the 7 to book now, what each includes and how they differ.
Set sail from Porto Vecchio at 9 a.m. for the Cerbicales and Lavezzi Islands, with Bonifacio views, lunch and drinks onboard, two swim stops, and a return via Cavallo. Captain Vincent Chiocca brings four generations of Corsican fishing knowledge to the day.
“un succulent repas et bravo à toute l'équipe. je conseii”
Spend eight hours aboard a modern maxi catamaran from Saint-Raphaël, sailing past Île d’Or and the red Estérel rocks to the Lérins Islands. You’ll get two anchor stops, paddleboards, a buffet lunch with wine, soft drinks, an aperitif, and a lively return with music. French and English service is available.
“C’était parfait. Ambiance, repas, nourriture. Une animation au top. Merci AMC”
Leave Cannes with skipper Clara or Valerie for a four-hour private boat trip around the Lérins Islands. You’ll see the Croisette from the water, anchor for swimming and snorkeling, and use the included underwater scooter. Bring snacks, and check the extra €200 skipper charge before booking.
“Absolutely could not find the captain nor could or would the company after I contacted them twice and spoke ad nauseum with two different agents. Where is our refund ???”
From Bonifacio’s north quay, join a small French-speaking crew for a nine-hour cruise to the Lavezzi Islands. Expect cliff views, guided island commentary, several swim stops, paddleboarding, masks and snorkels, Corsican charcuterie and cheese, plus free port parking.
“There were 12 guests. And shade enough for 5 . So we landed up on the gorgeous front of the boat - but in the sun for 8 hours in 30 degrees heat. The boat was a little small for 13 people for a whole day. They were friendly and lovely and got vegetarian food for us. We just left HOT. Gorgeous gorgeous scenery.”
Sail aboard the French-made Maxi Catamaran Mayba from Marina Baie des Anges to the Lérins Islands and Cap d’Antibes. Captain François and his crew serve a buffet lunch, Provençal wine, an aperitif, and soft drinks, with time for swimming, paddleboarding, and quiet anchorage stops.
“Excellent!! I will do again and again. Speciak mention to Captain Francois and his team they madr our day”
Join skipper Pierre aboard La Baladeuzh for a relaxed, nine-hour sailing trip from Port du Crouesty to Houat. The group is limited to nine, with tea, coffee, apple juice, and Breton cake on the crossing. Explore Houat for three hours, then sail back to Arzon.
Spend about eight hours sailing from Vallauris near Cannes to the Lérins Islands with an English and French-speaking skipper. Swim among Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater sculptures, explore Sainte-Marguerite and Fort Royal, then enjoy a second swim stop. The boat carries up to nine people.
“Calm and relaxing time. Perfect to relax into the joys of sailing slowly, immersing yourself with the beautiful views and majestic waters around you.”
By hull, by landing, by how long you want to be out.
