Discover the PACA region: the ten best spots by boat

croisiere iles lérins

Hoist the sails and set sail for one of PACA’s ten best boating spots!

The Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region awakens the imagination. This almost year-round warm region, where sunsets explode every evening, is a must-see destination for travelers in search of beauty, history and adventure.

If land lovers love it here, it’s sea lovers who are the happiest. That’s why a boat trip in the PACA region remains one of the most authentic and exhilarating ways to discover the area. For an unforgettable excursion, we recommend Samboat, the specialist in private boat hire.

The Calanques of Marseille, the face of the PACA region

croisiere calanques marseille

Photo credit: Shutterstock – kavram

  • 💙Welove: an unmissable, accessible destination on the Côte d’Azur
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

Often cited as one of France’s most beautiful coastlines, the Calanques de Marseille stretch between Marseille and Cassis. Their singular, jagged and tormented relief creates a unique setting. A rugged, photogenic terrain enhanced by the white of the cliffs, the green of the pine forests and the colors of the sea. Here, the Mediterranean is decked out in its most sparkling turquoise and navy blues.

Marseille’s Calanques are also an incredible playground for hiking between mountains and garrigue, swimming and snorkelling in the small creeks formed by erosion.

A boat trip will give you easy access to the most beautiful spots in the Calanques. These include the En-Vau calanques, flanked by immense cliffs, and Sormiou: the darling of Marseilles locals!

The islands of Porquerolles, the pearl of the Golden Isles

croisiere ile porquerolles

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Valenti Renzo

  • 💙Welove: a wild island, virtually untouched by habitation
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

Imagine yourself sailing on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the sun beating down on your skin, the wind in your hair… In the distance, you catch sight of an island that seems to float on the blue waters. It’s Porquerolles, a little jewel in the Hyères archipelago.

Its sandy beaches, hidden coves and hiking trails offer an enchanting backdrop for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Once you’ve landed on the island, you’ll discover a world of scents and colors. Lavender fields and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, while the scents of Mediterranean flora intoxicate your senses. And what about the fine sandy beaches with their crystal-clear waters? The Courtade and Argent beaches are among the most beautiful in France, offering ideal conditions for swimming, diving and relaxation.

But Porquerolles is more than just breathtaking scenery. The island also boasts a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.

For the adventurous, Porquerolles also offers a wide range of outdoor activities. If you’d like to experience the island for yourself, we recommend renting a sailboat: the perfect craft for those who dream of thrills and spills.

The bay of Cannes, the coast of the stars

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Photo credit: Shutterstock – StevanZZ

  • 💙Welove: the glamorous atmosphere of the coast… at sea
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

A jewel to discover on a boat trip in the PACA region, the Bay of Cannes is a must for travelers in search of glamour and pure beauty. Between two sea jaunts, you’ll have plenty of time to stroll along the famous Croisette, the most seductive promenade on the Mediterranean. Palm trees sway gently in the sea breeze, while the world’s most luxurious yachts dock in the harbor.

Cannes is also home to cultural treasures such as the famous Palais des Festivals, the Musée de la Castre and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Espérance. The old town of Cannes, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, offers an authentic atmosphere of timeless charm.

The Bay of Cannes is also famous for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking panoramic views. What’s even more exciting is discovering them from the sea with that privileged feeling… and what could be more appropriate than the glamour of a catamaran to cruise the glittering coast?

The Gorges du Verdon, a breathtaking walk

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Photo credit: Shutterstock – fokke baarssen

  • 💙Welove: grandiose landscapes conducive to adventure
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

Let’s change course. The Gorges du Verdon, nuggets of Provence nestled between the mountains, offer a sumptuous picture of wild nature and sheer cliffs. This boat trip in the PACA region brings you face to face with the immensity of these phantasmagorical rock formations. The turquoise waters of the Verdon River roar. The sound of the rapids reaches your ears in a frantic rush. Boat and canoe rentals are highly recommended.

But there’s much more to the Gorges du Verdon than just a boat ride. The limestone cliffs are an ideal playground for climbers and thrill-seekers. Hikers can also discover the signposted footpaths leading to the hilltop villages, with their breathtaking panoramas. These characterful villages are steeped in authentic charm and are the perfect hideaways for sampling regional specialities.

The bay of Villefranche-sur-mer, the luxury coastline

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Photo credit: Shutterstock – LiliGraphie

  • 💙Welove: a jewel box of luxury and raw beauty in the middle of the sea
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

The bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, located between Nice and Monaco, is perfect for a stroll in a quiet, luxurious corner of the PACA region. A gentle sea breeze sweeps across this bright, picturesque tongue. The grooves of some of the world’s grandest yachts dot the flawless landscape.

Villefranche-sur-mer invites you to bask on its golden sandy beaches, immerse yourself in all the shades of Mediterranean blue and discover a rich and varied cultural heritage. Take time out for a visit to the Citadelle Saint-Elme, along the cobbled streets of the old quarter, with its colorful houses and historic churches, atop verdant hills.

For gourmets, the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer shines with its Michelin-starred restaurants and fresh local produce markets. Just the thing to recharge your batteries after your iodine baths.

The Calanques of Cassis, Marseille’s unmissable neighbor

croisiere calanques cassis

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Irina Wilhauk

  • 💙Welove: a typical, unmissable, preserved setting
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

A veritable feat of nature, the Calanques de Cassis are a succession of steep cliffs and coves plunging into the sparkling sea. All around you: vertiginous rock faces, the murmur of turquoise water caressing the limestone walls, coves following one another in a symphony of beauty. At the bow of your boat: a bevy of fresh fish, seafood and local wines to savor under the midday sun.

The Calanques de Cassis are a must-see not only for boat trips in the PACA region, but also for kayaking and hiking. Far from being just for lovers of land and sea, these cliffs are also an ideal playground for climbers.

The Frioul Islands, Tahiti facing Marseille

croisière iles frioul

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Florian Augustin

  • 💙Onaime: small paradise easily accessible from Marseille
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

The Frioul Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Marseille, are a veritable paradise dear to the hearts of Marseillais. Comprising four main islands, this group of islands abounds in natural and cultural treasures that are best discovered by boat. Seabirds fly overhead and dolphins greet you from your pontoon.

When you disembark on Ratonneau Island, the largest of the Frioul islands, you’ll be greeted by a gentle sea breeze and the pine forest that perfumes the air. Fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters invite you to stop for a swim, while limestone cliffs and wild coves reveal a magnificent landscape to explore, while the island of Pomègues stands out with its military fort and nature reserve of unique plant and animal species.

Port-Cros, the other face of the Golden Isles

croisiere ile port cros

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Christophe Licoppe

  • 💙Welove: a magical spot for budding and seasoned birdwatchers alike
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

The island of Port-Cros is a small, confidential piece of land just a few kilometers from the Var coast. This unspoilt islet offers a unique experience for those looking for a peaceful stroll in the PACA region.

Guaranteed to amaze! The crystal-clear waters and wild coves invite you to swim and scuba dive. Admire the rich underwater flora and fauna.

Then drop anchor and tackle the island’s hiking trails. Contemplate the steep cliffs, explore the sandy beaches and step out onto the promontories overlooking the sea.

Port-Cros is also a sanctuary for birds and sea turtles. The best way to observe them is to rent a RIB, which is faster and more discreet. Among the island’s most emblematic features are its colorful houses and iconic narrow streets.

The Var coast, between luxury and tradition

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Photo credit: Shutterstock – NAPA

  • 💙Welike: the diversity of sites of interest all along the coast
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

The Côte Varoise, punctuated by rocky coves and covered with fine sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, amazes visitors from all over the world.

From Saint-Tropez to Saint-Raphaël, via the Golden Isles, the Côte Varoise is bursting with attractions. It’s certainly the most diverse boat trip in the PACA region. In Saint-Tropez, luxury yachts compete with colorful fishermen’s cottages, creating a unique atmosphere. The world-famous Var town is a prime destination for relaxing and enjoying the golden beaches.

The town of Saint-Raphaël offers a more traditional atmosphere, with its lively fishing port and old town center lined with medieval streets.

Along the Côte Varoise, you’ll also discover the typical hilltop villages of southern France, the scene of numerous traditional festivals throughout the year.

The Lérins Islands

croisiere iles lérins

Photo credit: Shutterstock – GLF Media

  • 💙Welove: islands with strong, unique traditions
  • 👍Bestperiod: June, September and October (for a mild climate and fewer crowds), July and August (for maximum temperatures and an atmosphere at its peak)

This PACA boat trip takes you to the Lérins Islands, a small, picturesque and mysterious archipelago.

These islets abound with hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. Their fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, diving and sailing. The island of Sainte-Marguerite is famous for its royal fort. Ile Saint-Honorat, meanwhile, shines with its botanical gardens.

The Lérins Islands also boast a unique culture, shaped by Roman, Byzantine, Saracen and Spanish occupations. Today, the islands are home to monastic communities, where monks produce famous wines and liqueurs from the grapes and plants grown on the island.

Ready to cast off and enjoy the freedom of a sea voyage? A trip on a catamaran, sailboat or RIB? Skippered or self-guided? The Samboat website offers a wide range of possibilities.