The Lérins Islands on a catamaran: the hidden gems near Cannes
Table of contents:
- Lérins Islands cruise on a luxury catamaran
- The Lérins Islands: the hidden gems near Cannes
- What to see in the Lérins Islands?
- Where to swim: the best beaches of the archipelago
The Lérins Islands on a luxury catamaran: these hidden gems near Cannes are some of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean. They are the ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation. Marine Vela strives to make your dreams come true on their luxury and eco-responsible catamarans with very meaningful names: Sérénité, Liberté and Éternité. They offer personalized cruises, departing from Antibes, Hyères, Marseille or Saint-Tropez, planned according to your wishes.
Welcome to your amazing sea adventure!
Lérins Islands cruise on a luxury catamaran
Life onboard
Welcome aboard our luxury catamarans. Your skipper will warmly welcome you aboard your personalized private cruise in the bay of Cannes. A private chef, at your request, can join you during the adventure. Our spacious boats are the guarantee that you will have a relaxing and cozy experience. Your days will be planned according to your wishes. A dreamy itinerary awaits you!
Activities
Be ready to be amazed, you are about to have an unforgettable vacation!
Anchorage spots usually take place close to wild creeks around the islands. That way, you can enjoy some peace and quiet and your cruise won’t harm marine biodiversity, according to our commitment.
You will spend your time:
- Swimming and doing water activities ;
- Scuba diving and snorkeling ;
- Exploring the islands, as the skipper drops you off at the closest beaches ;
- Admiring the most beautiful views while enjoying ice-cold drinks onboard, in the lounging areas.
Let’s sail for the Lérins Islands!
The Lérins Islands: the hidden gems near Cannes
A few miles away from the Cannes coast, the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat watch over the bay. It only takes 15 minutes to sail to this unique place. The islands of Saint-Honorat and Sainte-Marguerite are facing each other. The deserted islands of Tradelière and Saint-Ferréol are also a part of the archipelago.
Sainte-Marguerite Island
Sainte-Marguerite is the biggest island, situated in the northern part. Simply majestic, it is 3.2 km long and has about 20 inhabitants all year-round. Facing Cannes, the royal prisons of Fort Royal are an important part of history. Its most infamous prisoner was the Man in the Iron Mask. Most of the island is covered in an ancient 152 hectare Aleppo pine and eucalyptus state forest. This treasure of biodiversity is owned by the State. The thousands of shades of green are surrounded by crystal-clear blue water. A unique excursion awaits you!
Saint-Honorat Island
Saint-Honorat Island, six times smaller than Sainte-Marguerite Island, is home to a Cistercian monastery and 20 monks. The beauty of the site inspires contemplation and relaxation. This old monastery was built in the 5th century by a monk who gave his name to the island. The monks now live peacefully on the island and grow vines. It’s like a little heaven on Earth.
It’s time to explore these 2 gems and to enjoy their many treasures. A lot of cultural and fun activities are waiting for you there.
What to see in the Lérins Islands?
As an ideal destination for a family cruise, the skipper drops you off on the island of your choice to relax and discover everything it has to offer.
Nature and heritage on Sainte-Marguerite Island
Hiking is the best way to explore the Lérins Islands. Explore the marked paths around Sainte-Marguerite Island. Nature and history lovers will be in paradise:
- The state forest covering most of the island is a wonderful place. Awake your senses. The smell of pines and eucalyptus and the light turning more and more golden as the day goes by will leave you speechless ;
- A quick detour to the Batéguier Pond will allow you to see many migratory birds making their nests for the season ;
- A tour of the Fort Royal, a historical heritage site built by Richelieu, is inevitable. The Museum of the Sea has an interesting underwater archeological collection as well as an aquarium dedicated to the Mediterranean Sea.
A lot of emotions are waiting for you on that island!
History and liquor tasting on Saint-Honorat Island
You will feel so good on Saint-Honorat Island! The abbey gives the place a very peaceful atmosphere, and the protected wildlife will make you feel happy and relaxed. Filled with light and color, the coastal trail goes all around the island:
- Saint-Sauveur Chapel, recently restored, is one of the most beautiful Christian monasteries in the Western world ;
- The cannonball ovens from the Napoleonic army ;
- The old monastery, a beautiful fortress, is an iconic spot on the French Riviera. It used to shelter pirates and Saracens.
Nowadays, away from the noise of the cities, the quiet surrounds the islands and the old stones. The abbey is full of surprises. The monks make their own wines and liquors, thanks to the 8 hectares of vineyards on the island. Liquors with bright colors, as well as white and red wines are ready for a tasting. Wine lovers, this is for you!
After a day of exploration, it is finally time to swim in crystal water in one of the many creeks on the island. It will be unforgettable!
Where to swim: the best beaches of the archipelago
This area is an idyllic place to spend a day at the beach with family and friends.
Creeks and unusual spots at Sainte-Marguerite
Napping, swimming, playing and unusual spots are on the schedule in this dreamy place:
- The big flat rocks around Portet Beach are a delight for families ;
- On the south-western part of the island, Dragon Coves are a perfect spot for napping under the pine trees, and admiring beautiful landscapes and bright blue water ;
- Sainte-Anne Beach is a rocky and sandy beach conveniently situated near the nautical base ;
- The widest beach on the island: Maison Forestière Beach.
An unusual spot is waiting for you near the Maison Forestière. Grab your fins and snorkel to dive and explore the first underwater eco-museum in France:
Six big face sculptures by the artist Jason deCaires Taylor are immersed 5 meters deep in water. It is an innovative and fun discovery that is worth the trip!
Saint-Honorat Beaches
Some family spots to enjoy during your vacation:
- The biggest beach in Saint-Honorat is the one at the port. The view of Sainte-Marguerite Island is superb ;
- The rocky Fort Beach offers an exceptional view of Saint-Ferréol Island ;
Saint-Sauveur Creek, situated a few meters away from the chapel of the same name, has a restaurant nearby and is also a great place for a picnic.
Tips: rocky creeks and beaches require water shoes to avoid slipping and getting hurt.
Lérins Islands in a luxury catamaran: the hidden gems near Cannes onboard a Marine Vela catamaran is a unique moment that you will never forget. The seven itineraries in the Mediterranean Sea that we offer are the guarantee for a tailor-made and exceptional vacation. Breathtaking landscapes, no restraint and a cozy environment. We are waiting for you to take you on an extraordinary trip. Contact us now!