France · BOAT TOURS IN NICE
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 8 boat tours in Nice that hold up, each with its price, its verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Join Trans Côte d’Azur at Nice’s Quai Lunel for a one-hour cruise past the Baie des Anges, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Villefranche-sur-Mer. A French and English guide shares local stories, villa gossip, and coastal history while you enjoy the Riviera from the water.
“We enjoyed this tour. The boat was nice and the sights were very good. The staff was engaging and knowledgeable.”
From Port of Nice, you cruise the Baie des Anges, Villefranche Bay, Cap de Nice, and Cap Ferrat aboard a clean sightseeing boat. Bilingual English and French commentary covers Riviera history, hillside villages, villas, and celebrity homes. The one-hour route is relaxed, affordable, and easy to fit into a busy day.
“Incredible! The team are so unbelievably friendly and welcoming. The service was fabulous even pouring my glass of champagne at my seat, and when you offer them a tip they have a very wholesome tradition to tap the red pompom in the captains hat, they’re so humble. The boat was impeccably clean and tidy, and the route was perfect for sightseeing and the English translation was faultless and informative. Highly recommend!”
Ride a 12-person Black Tender from Cannes into the Esterel creeks, passing red volcanic cliffs, secluded coves, Maison Lacoste, and the Bubble Palace. Local captains such as Stephan, Damian, and Julian provide commentary, with time for swimming or snorkeling when sea conditions allow.
“I had such a great time! Worth every cent! If I come back to Cannes, I will definitely book this again!”
Join Black Tenders Events at Nice Port for a 2.5-hour ride toward Monaco on a semi-rigid Black Tender. Captains such as Damien, Florian, and Julien combine coastal facts with fast runs, scenic pauses, and, on some outings, swimming near beautiful coves.
“Damien was amazing! He was so welcoming. It was the perfect balance of learning interesting facts about the coast, swimming at cool spots, and enjoying the ride as we sped over the waves for a perfect adventure! 10/10, our favorite event in Nice!”
Leave Cannes at 2 PM, take a 15-minute ferry to Sainte-Marguerite Island, then board a modern catamaran for a relaxed afternoon on the Mediterranean. Swim, snorkel, kayak, or use a paddleboard before returning to Cannes at 5:15 PM. Bring a towel and cash for the onboard bar.
“This was absolutely perfect! The scenery was amazing, there was plenty of equipment for everyone, and they even had snacks at the end. I would do this again and again.”
Set out from Port Lympia with a French or English-speaking guide, often hosted by captains such as Leo, Jean-Baptiste, Paul, or Antoine. Cruise past Cap-Ferrat, stop to swim and snorkel in Villefranche Bay, enjoy homemade Niçois food and wine, then watch sunset from the sea.
“Leo was my favorite tour guide of all time; he knew all the history and had such good energy!! We had a great time!! strongly recommend this trip with him, his pizza was Vraiment Bonne!!”
Set out from Villefranche-sur-Mer aboard the rustic Esteou 630 for a private 2.5 to 3-hour cruise toward Nice, Beaulieu, Cap-d’Ail, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Jessica hosts in English or French, with time for swimming, local snacks, pastries, fruit, soft drinks, and rosé.
“We recently enjoyed a boat tour with Vincent and Jessica, and it was nothing short of spectacular! Vincent was incredibly attentive, providing all the necessary information throughout the trip, ensuring everything went smoothly. However, Jessica was truly the cherry on top of the cake. From the very first interaction to the heartfelt hug at the end, she made us feel like we were part of something special. The food was delicious, the conversation flowed effortlessly, and the city lights reflecting off the water added a magical touch. This was hands down the best tour we’ve ever had, and it’s all thanks to Jessica and the amazing atmosphere she helped create.…”
From Beaulieu-sur-Mer, you’ll cruise the bay of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat on a private, silent solar boat with an English or French-speaking guide. See Villa Kerylos, Villa Ephrussi Rothschild, La Reserve, Royal Riviera, and Villa David Niven. The boat is license-free, so you may even take the helm.
“William was professional, friendly, and knowledgable about the area. The views and sunset were incredible. The solar boat was clean and nice. We didn't realize how slow it went and we would just go around the bay. If you're looking for a calm, relaxing ride in the bay this will be perfect.”
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