Skip the licence and pilot your own boat to the Lérins Islands for a six-hour day of secret coves, clear water and monastery vineyards. Practical tips on deposits, navigation and timing to make the most of this licence-free rental.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The quay smells of diesel and sunscreen as the harbor flags snap in the mistral; a small fleet of easy-to-handle, licence-free motorboats waits to cut loose toward the Lérins archipelago. Departing from the Cannes–Mandelieu corridor, the day unfolds as a sequence of low limestone islets, sheltered coves and glittering anchorages where the sea tempts you to dive in.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to step on/off a small boat and swim is helpful
Wildlife
History
Sainte-Marguerite’s 17th-century Fort Royal once held prisoners including the figure linked to the Man in the Iron Mask; Saint-Honorat hosts a 5th-century monastic tradition producing wine.
Conservation
The Lérins islands contain protected posidonia seagrass beds—anchor in sandy patches and avoid seagrass to prevent habitat damage; follow local rules to limit noise and litter.
Reserve your spot on the boat trip without a license to the Lérins Islands today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring Reef Shoes
Many coves have rocky bottoms—reef shoes protect feet when boarding from shallow anchorages.
Fuel Buffer
Although fuel is included, keep a reserve plan and avoid long fast runs; fuel stops on islands are limited.
Early Start
Launch in the morning to beat afternoon mistral winds and crowded anchorages.
Secure the Deposit
A €500 deposit is required—have a card ready and inspect the boat with the operator before departure.
Reef shoes
Protects feet when entering shallow, rocky coves and boarding from water.
summer
Snorkel mask
Clear Mediterranean water makes snorkeling a highlight; bring a mask to explore underwater meadows.
summer
Windproof layer
An afternoon mistral can chill you on the open sea even on warm days.
spring
Dry bag
Keeps electronics, documents and a change of clothes dry while moving between coves.