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Top things to do in Nice

Colorful buildings and palm trees along the waterfront in Nice, France.
Nice City
Perfume blending with pipette and Fargonard bottles.
Fragonard
Seals posing by the pool at Marineland Antibes.
Marineland Antibes Tickets
Villa Kerylos overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France.
Villa Kérylos

Overview

  • A Nice sightseeing cruise is the best way to explore the French Riviera coastline: from bays and villas to coves, cliffs, and vibrant marine life.
  • Typical durations: 60–75 min (ferry / short sightseeing), 1h30–2h30 (snorkeling & extended boat tours)
  • Last departures (peak): up to ~22:00
  • Boarding hubs:
    • From Nice → Port of Nice (pontoon G04, Quai Lunel)
    • From Cannes → Port du Béal / Port de Cannes
  • Audio languages: English & French commentary, with some operators offering multilingual audio (8–14 languages)
  • Best first-timer pick: 60–75 min sightseeing / ferry to Sainte-Marguerite Island
  • Most memorable: Monaco Bay Snorkeling (from Nice) or Esterel Snorkeling Tour (from Cannes) at sunset

What to expect on a sightseeing cruise in Nice

Nice Sightseeing Cruise
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
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Smooth boarding & setting sail

Your journey begins at the port, where boarding is quick and easy. Once you settle in on deck, take a moment to relax and enjoy the sea breeze as the boat gently pulls away from the harbor.

Panoramic coastline views

As you cruise along the French Riviera, the dazzling blue waters open up around you. The ride takes you past natural gems like Ste. Marguerite Island and the rugged cliffs of Esterel Natural Park—home to rare plants, migratory birds, and dramatic red rock formations.

Adventure stops along the way

If you’ve chosen a cruise with activities, this is when the fun begins. Drop anchor near hidden coves and caves for snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming. The clear Mediterranean waters are perfect for spotting marine life or just cooling off.

A taste of the Riviera

Some itineraries bring you close to charming seaside villages such as Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Here, you can step ashore to enjoy local delicacies at waterfront cafés, all while soaking up postcard-worthy views.

Family-friendly fun

Traveling with kids? Expect a mix of family activities like beach stops, fishing, and even the chance to spot dolphins or sea turtles. There’s something to keep everyone entertained, from the adventurous to the laid-back.

Guides to lead your way

If you’ve opted for a guided boat ride or snorkeling tour, your captain or instructor will be there to assist you throughout the experience. They’ll share interesting insights about the coastline and marine life, help you find the best snorkeling spots, and ensure everything runs smoothly on board. Do note that you may need to bring your own snorkeling equipment, depending on your ticket.

A memorable return

On the way back, settle into your seat and let the scenery roll by one last time. Whether it’s the golden glow of late afternoon or the sparkle of the open sea, your Nice cruise ends with unforgettable views and memories.

Things to know before booking your Nice boat tour

  • Every cruise provides a round-trip ride on a semi-rigid vessel, led by a professional skipper who ensures both safety and enjoyment. Sightseeing cruises come with engaging commentary about the Riviera’s history and coastline, while some adventure tours also include full snorkeling or sea scooter gear. Instructors guide beginners step by step, so even first-timers can join with ease.
  • When choosing your cruise, it helps to know there are two broad styles:
    • Sightseeing-focused tours: Relaxed trips along the coast, sometimes stopping at islands or beaches. They’re a budget-friendly way to admire Riviera views and historic sites.
    • Adventure-oriented tours: Active excursions with snorkeling or sea scooter rides. Priced a little higher, they include specialized gear and skipper guidance — great for anyone after more thrill and exploration.
  • Tours run at different times of the day, so you can match your choice to your pace:
    • Morning: A calmer option, with gentler seas and softer light, ideal if you prefer an easy-going start.
    • Afternoon: The most active window, often including snorkeling or swimming stops, with the coastline lit up in vibrant midday colors.
    • Evening: A dramatic finale, where golden-hour views, glowing cliffs, and city lights make the cruise especially memorable.
  • Your choice of route shapes the experience, as each departure point shows off a distinct side of the Riviera:
    • From Nice:
      • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat → Known for elegance and natural beauty, this route offers tranquil bays, turquoise waters, and views of exclusive villas — ideal if you’re after a slower, scenic escape.
      • Monaco → A longer, more glamorous itinerary with dramatic cliffs, coastal panoramas, and a close-up of Monaco’s legendary harbor and skyline — perfect if you want Riviera prestige from the water.
    • From Cannes:
      • Île de Lérins → Just offshore, this peaceful island cluster offers forest walks, hidden coves, and historic landmarks like Fort Royal — a great fit for history lovers or families seeking a calmer outing.
      • Esterel National Park → A striking contrast with its red volcanic cliffs, sea caves, and natural arches. With swim stops in clear lagoons, it’s the top choice for adventure seekers and photographers.
  • Tours are especially popular during summer, weekends, and holidays, and on-site tickets are limited. Online booking 3–7 days in advance is the simplest way to secure your spot and avoid disappointment — particularly for snorkeling and sea scooter experiences.

Find your best Nice cruise match here

Cruise typeRoute / sightsBoarding pointInclusionsBoat / seatingTypical durationPrice

Island ferry

Cannes → Sainte-Marguerite (Lérins Islands), Fort Royal, coves

Port de Cannes

Round-trip ferry ticket

Semi-open passenger boat

~1h each way

From €18.50

Sightseeing cruise

Nice coast & Cap Ferrat: bays, villas, turquoise waters

Port of Nice (Quai Lunel)

Commentary from skipper

Semi-rigid open boat

60–75 min

From €18.50

Adventure snorkeling

Nice → Monaco Bay / Cannes → Esterel cliffs & lagoons

Port of Nice (Pontoon G04) / Port du Béal, Cannes

Snorkeling gear, swim stops, skipper guide

Semi-rigid boat, small group

1h 30min – 2h 30min

From €55

Underwater scooter

Cap Ferrat / Cap d’Ail: reefs, bays, marine life

Multiple Riviera points (Nice, Menton, Cap Ferrat)

Sea scooter + gear, instructor (EN/FR)

Small-group (max 6)

2h

From €75

Your Nice cruise destination options

Nice Sightseeing Cruise - Lérins Islands

Lérins Islands

  • Route: From Cannes to the Lérins Islands
  • Experience: Escape to a serene cluster of islands surrounded by turquoise waters and pine forests. Discover the quiet charm of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, known for their history, monasteries, and pristine beaches
  • Highlights: Fort Royal, the Monastery of Saint-Honorat, crystal-clear lagoons, and peaceful swim spots
  • Duration: 1h 30min–2h 30min
  • Ideal for: Families, history lovers, and anyone seeking a laid-back island escape near Cannes
Nice Sightseeing Cruise - Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

  • Route: From Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
  • Experience: Cruise along one of the Riviera’s most exclusive coastlines, where villas hide among lush gardens and coves shimmer in shades of blue. Stop to swim or snorkel in secluded bays beneath pine-covered cliffs
  • Highlights: Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, Paloma Beach, hidden coves, and panoramic coastal views
  • Duration: 1h 30min–2h 30min
  • Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, couples, and travelers who love scenic elegance and tranquil waters
Nice Sightseeing Cruise - Monaco

Monaco

  • Route: From Cannes to Monaco
  • Experience: Sail along the French Riviera to the glamorous principality known for its yachts, cliffside villas, and royal charm. Glide past coastal gems before arriving in Monte Carlo’s dazzling harbor.
  • Highlights: Luxury marinas, the Prince’s Palace, Monte Carlo Casino, and sweeping Riviera views
  • Duration: 2h 30min–3h 30min
  • Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, and travelers drawn to glamour
Nice Sightseeing Cruise - Cap d'Antibes

Cap d'Antibes

  • Route: Scenic circuit around Antibes
  • Experience: A blend of culture and coastline, where gardens, beaches, and old ports meet Mediterranean charm. From the water, Antibes shows off its refined yet laid-back personality
  • Highlights: Villa Ephrussi gardens, Garoupe Beach, historic marina views
  • Duration: 60–90 min
  • Ideal for: Culture seekers and beach lovers after heritage mixed with leisure
Nice Sightseeing Cruise

Esterel National Park

  • Route: From Cannes to the Esterel massif
  • Experience: A rugged coastline of volcanic red cliffs, sea caves, and sparkling lagoons. Swim stops make it part adventure, part sightseeing
  • Highlights: Red cliffs, natural arches, hidden coves, snorkeling stops
  • Duration: 1h 30min–2h 30min
  • Ideal for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers chasing dramatic Mediterranean scenery

What you’ll see on your Nice cruise

Boats in turquoise waters near lush vegetation, Cap d'Antibes, Nice.
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Lérins Island's hidden gems

The fragrant forests of the islands are full of unique birds you can watch, explore the historical Fort Royal and dive in, literally, to view the fascinating underwater eco-museum. Keep an eye out for the common tern and the grey heron!

Beach paradise

Relax on the soft sands of Mala Beach, take a dip in its emerald coves, or embark on an exciting adventure exploring the Eze Caves by the beach.

Cap d'Antibes luxury

Cruise by stunning billionaire's villas, marvel at the beauty of the emerald waters, and breathe in the fresh scent of coastal plants like sea lavender and rosemary.

Cannes fireworks extravaganza

Be dazzled by a breathtaking fireworks display at the Pyrotechnical Festival of Cannes, the perfect finale for your sunset cruise.

Esterel national park adventure

Feeling adventurous? Venture on a guided boat tour to discover hidden coves and pirate caves, and look at the volcanic origins of the park's red rock formations (Rhyolite), followed by snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters amidst coral formations!

Villefranche sur Mer's charm

While crossing the scenic beauty of the town, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of Villefranche sur Mer's houses, savor a delicious meal by the harbor, and watch the boats bobbing gently on the water.

All your Nice cruise boarding points

Cruise Terminal • Sainte-Marguerite island

📍 Address: Cannes - Île Sainte-Marguerite, 06400 Cannes, France

Famous for: Scenic ferry rides to the island’s pristine nature and historic Fort Royal.

Getting there

  • By bus: Take Bus 1 or 2 towards Bd du Midi and get off at Pont du Lys or Port du Béal — both are within a 5–10 minute walk of the ferry terminal for Sainte-Marguerite Island.
  • By taxi/car: About 10 minutes from Cannes train station and 30 minutes from Nice Airport. There’s public parking available near the port area.

Black Tenders 

📍 Address: 51 Quai des Deux Emmanuels, 06300 Nice, France

Famous for: Small-group boat tours along the Riviera, snorkeling, and hidden coves.

Getting there

  • By tram: Take Tram Line 2 toward Port Lympia and get off at the Port Lympia stop — the departure point is about a 5-minute walk.
  • By bus: Routes 30, 38, or 57 stop near Le Port or Riquier, a short walk to the quay.
  • By taxi/car: About 10 minutes from Nice city center or 20–25 minutes from Nice Airport, depending on traffic. Paid parking is available nearby.

Black Tenders Cannes

📍 Address: Port du Béal, 112 Bd du Midi Louise Moreau, 06400 Cannes, France

Famous for: Luxury boat experiences, private charters, and coastal exploration.

Getting there

  • By bus: Take Bus 1 or 2 towards Bd du Midi, and alight at Pont du Lys — the port is a 5-minute walk from there.
  • By taxi/car: Roughly 10 minutes from Cannes train station and 30 minutes from Nice Airport. Street and public parking available near the harbor.

Plan your sightseeing cruise experience in Nice

  • Arrive prepared: Have your boarding point ready on your phone—no need to print. Display your voucher with a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking.
  • Find your departure spot: Staff will direct you to the correct tender or cruise. Confirm the ferry or cruise departure schedule beforehand to avoid delays.
  • Boarding pass: Collect it if required—your ticket to the adventure!
  • Enjoy the wait: Snap photos, relax by the harbor, or take in the scenic views if you have extra time.
  • Boarding begins: Follow staff signals, step aboard, and get ready to set sail from Sainte-Marguerite Island (Cannes), Black Tenders – Nice, or Black Tenders – Cannes!
Nice Sightseeing Cruise

While the cruise timings differ for each experience option, here is a lowdown of the general timings:

From Cannes or Nice:

  • Duration: The boat tours can last anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on the ticket chosen.
  • Departure: You should reach the boarding point at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
  • Note: For the exact timing information, check your ticket.
  • Cruise Terminal – Sainte-Marguerite Island (Cannes): Depart from Cannes to explore the scenic Île Sainte-Marguerite.
  • Black Tenders – Nice: Conveniently located at Quai des Deux Emmanuels for departures from Nice.
  • Black Tenders – Cannes: Depart from Port du Béal in Cannes for nearby island and coastal tours.
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
  • Lifejacket and flotation aids
  • Restrooms
  • First-aid kits
  • Bar
  • Open decks
  • Seating arrangements
  • Snorkel equipment (optional)
  • The ferry and boarding facilities are fully accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Snorkeling tours, however, are not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven surfaces and water entry requirements.
Nice Sightseeing Cruise
  • Get to the dock at least half an hour before sailing to avoid missing your departure.
  • You can't bring your food or drinks on the cruise.
  • Listen to the crew's instructions when boarding the ship.
  • There's no need for fancy clothes, but pack clothes that look nice and are easy to move around in.
  • If you have special food needs, tell the cruise line ahead of time so they can prepare meals you can eat.
  • Smoking is mostly not allowed on decks or inside the ship. There are usually special areas for smokers.
  • Don't be loud or disruptive, and avoid anything that could put yourself or others at risk.
  • While some boats allow pets on board, others don’t necessarily permit your furry friends. Guided animals are not permitted.

Tips and guidelines

  • Arrive 20–30 minutes early: piers can get crowded, especially in summer.
  • Weekend traffic into Nice or Cannes is heavy; plan for public transit or taxis.
  • For Riviera landmarks, sit on the starboard side outbound; switch sides on return.
  • Sunset cruises: golden light is best ~30 minutes before sunset.
  • Evenings get breezy on open decks; bring a light jacket after 8pm.
  • Small semi-rigid boats rarely have toilets: use facilities before boarding.
  • Sensitive to motion? Avoid bow seats and stick mid-ship for smoother rides.
  • Many sightseeing boats provide audio guides; bring wired earbuds for clearer sound.
  • Folding strollers are accepted, and lifejackets are provided for children.
  • Weather can change fast; operators allow reschedules or refunds if canceled.

Frequently asked questions about sightseeing cruises in Nice

What’s the difference between a daytime sightseeing cruise and an evening or sunset cruise in Nice?

Daytime cruises are all about soaking in the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean, clear views of the coastline, and lively seaside activity—perfect if you want to spot landmarks and snap vibrant photos. Evening or sunset cruises, on the other hand, offer a calmer, more romantic atmosphere. You’ll watch the sun dip into the horizon, see the city lights glow along the shore, and enjoy the Côte d’Azur in a softer, golden light.

Do the cruises offer food and drinks?

While some cruises offer light refreshments or snacks, others focus on the sightseeing experience, depending on the chosen experience. You can also head to nearby restaurants like L'Escale, Le Lerõnos and Glacier for food later!

How long does a typical Nice sightseeing cruise last?

Cruises can range from half-day adventures to full-day explorations, depending on the itinerary.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

If included in the itinerary, the cruises will provide you with snorkeling equipment, but it is optional.

Can I swim in the coves during a sightseeing cruise from Nice?

Yes! Many cruises include time for swimming in the crystal-clear waters around the islands.

Can I see wildlife on the Nice boat tour?

Yes! You might spot birds soaring along the cliffs or encounter colorful fish while snorkeling in the coves.

Can I bring luggage on the cruise?

No. As most cruises are for sightseeing, you are not allowed to bring heavy luggage to the boat, so bring only what you need for the day.

What areas do the Nice sightseeing cruises typically cover?

Cruises explore the French Riviera coastline, including Nice, Cannes, Lérins Islands, Esterel National Park, and sometimes Monaco and Saint-Tropez.

Is it possible to see fireworks on a cruise?

Yes, some sunset cruises coincide with the Cannes Pyrotechnical Festival, offering a front-row seat to the dazzling fireworks display.

What if I get seasick easily?

You can purchase over-the-counter seasickness medication beforehand or inquire if the boat offers any remedies.

How do tender boat transfers impact my boarding and disembarking timing in Nice port?

Tender boats are small vessels that ferry passengers between the ship and the port since larger ships can’t always dock directly at Nice. This process can add around 15–30 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions and passenger volume, so it’s best to plan for a little extra time before and after your cruise.

Is it possible to combine a cruise with a short guided walking tour of the port area?

Yes. Many Nice cruises offer combo experiences, allowing you to pair your boat trip with a guided walking tour of the Old Port or Promenade des Anglais. It’s a great way to explore the city’s coastal charm both from the water and on foot—ideal for travelers who want a complete, relaxed half-day experience.

Does the cruise offer onboard commentary in multiple languages or a mobile app?

Most sightseeing cruises from Nice provide live or recorded commentary in multiple languages, including English and French. Some operators also offer a mobile app or audio guide that syncs with your route, making it easy to follow along with local landmarks, history, and fun facts.

What local customs or etiquette should be respected when interacting with crew on Nice cruises?

Crew members appreciate politeness and small courtesies—a friendly bonjour (hello) or merci (thank you) goes a long way. Tipping isn’t mandatory but is welcomed for good service. It’s also customary to follow safety instructions promptly and respect personal space on smaller vessels.

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