Board the ferry at Cannes port at your chosen departure time. Just a short 15-minute ferry ride off the French Riviera coast, Ile Sainte-Marguerite forms part of the Lérins Islands archipelago in the Golfe de la Napoule, and offers a heady blend of culture, history and nature.
When you arrive, step off the ferry, breathe in fragrant scents of pine and eucalyptus and head off to begin exploring independently. Pick a hiking trail - well-marked trails cover the island - and traverse dense forests for a botanical discovery. Or simply stroll to the Batéguier pond to spot migratory birds, or Point de la Convention to appreciate a range of unique plant species that call Ile Sainte-Marguerite home.
No trip to the island is complete without a visit to the Fort Royal, a former prison fortress built by Spanish invaders in the 17th century. Here is where the notorious ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ is said to have been imprisoned. Today the fortress finds new use as a maritime museum, with a wealth of archaeological finds that include 1st-century murals, artifacts from a 10th-century Saracen shipwreck and even Roman–era ceramics.
Another option is the Méditerranoscope marine research center, which works to protect the diverse sea life in the waters around the Lérins Islands. If you get hungry, you can choose from two restaurants and two sandwich kiosks. Or bring a picnic!
At 2:30 pm you will board the cruise to the Corncihe d’Or.
This commented cruise allows you to discover a magnificent natural décor where the red cliffs of the Esterel Massif meet the indigo blue sea.
Points of Interest
- 2 Quai Max Laubeuf
- Cruise with French commentary
- Round-trip ferry ride included
- Multiple departures from Cannes
- Transportation to attraction
- Food and drinks
Embark on a ferry journey from Cannes to Sainte-Marguerite for a day filled with nature trails, sightseeing, and tranquility. Just a 15-minute ride away from the French Riviera, you’ll reach the largest among the Lérins Islands. Here, you could follow wilderness trails, discover rich biodiversity, or visit the marine museum and the Fort Royal, where the saga of the ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ was born.
Your sea voyage to the Corniche d’Or begins at 2:30pm.
Experience the beauty of the shoreline from a fresh perspective on this 2-hour narrated boat tour (note: commentary is provided in French only). Set sail from the Island and navigate towards the Golfe de la Napoule, admiring the stunning French Riviera from aboard. Keep an eye out for highlights such as the Esterel’s fiery red cliffs. Snap pictures of the picturesque surroundings on your way to Rade d’Agay, before heading back to Cannes.
- Please arrive at Quai Laubeuf to exchange your voucher for a tickets 30 minutes before departure.
- Drinks can be purchased on board; there are no bathroom facilities on the ferry
- Be sure to check exact ferry departure and return times before your trip
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
