A guide of the best catamaran trips on the Côte d'Azur from Saint-Raphaël

5 minutes

The Côte d'Azur, with its crystal clear waters and stunning landscapes, is the perfect location for a catamaran adventure. If you're looking for a must-do activity for a holiday in Saint-Raphaël, look no further: a trip out to sea aboard luxury catamarans is the perfect experience. Whether you want a day of exploring, a romantic sunset, or an unusual outing such as brunch at sea or a fireworks display, every moment on board this catamaran is magical and carefully designed to give you an unforgettable experience.

 

Sail to the treasures of the Côte d'Azur, such as the Îles de Lérins and Saint-Tropez, and discover a multitude of excursions suited to the whole family. Thanks to the comfort and stability of the catamaran, young and old, from toddlers to grandparents, will be able to enjoy this boating trip on the Côte d'Azur with complete confidence. Embark on an unforgettable cruise and let yourself be charmed by the beauty and diversity of the Mediterranean scenery.

 

In this article, we'll list the different catamaran excursions available from Saint-Raphaël, so that you can make your choice according to your tastes. As you'll see, there's plenty of choice when it comes to discovering the many wonders of our destination.

Explore the Esterel creeks on a catamaran: a ‘must-do’ on the Côte d'Azur

Discovering the "Calanques de l'Estérel" on a catamaran is truly the must-do excursion for exploring the Côte d'Azur coastline. With its spectacular red rocks, this boat trip departing from Saint-Raphaël's Vieux Port is an experience not to be missed during your vacation.

 

Embark on a half-day discovery of the breathtaking creeks of the Esterel, an unforgettable adventure through spectacular scenery. You'll be dazzled by the red cliffs plunging into the blue waters of the Mediterranean, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding lush vegetation.

 

On this catamaran excursion, you'll explore Cap Dramont, the splendid Île d'Or, Agay Bay and the Anthéor Viaduct, immersing yourself in the heart of the famous red rocks. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and a swimming break where paddleboards, kayaks, masks and snorkels will be at your disposal to have fun in the water.

 

You'll also be invited to enjoy an aperitif including snacks, soft drinks and punch planteur, perfect for refreshing yourself while admiring the scenery. Watch the sailors hoist the mainsail and let the gentle rhythm of the sea lull you to sleep. On board, a number of comfortable areas have been set up for you: sunbeds, chairs and nets for lounging in the sun, as well as a shaded area ideal for young children or those sensitive to the sun.

The Esterel creeks are the perfect destination for a tour of the Côte d'Azur coastline, with its spectacular red rocks, departing from Saint-Raphaël. This excursion is perfect for holidaymakers who want to discover this magnificent coast from a new perspective.

Suggested activities

Catamaran excursion to the Turquoise Waters of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from Saint-Raphaël

Come aboard a catamaran for an unforgettable day in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, departing from the old port of Saint-Raphaël. This little cruise takes you to the natural treasures of the Trois Caps: Cap Camarat, Cap Taillat and Cap Lardier, famous for their turquoise waters of Pacific island-like beauty. The spacious, stable catamaran guarantees a comfortable trip, with no risk of seasickness, so you can relax under the Côte d'Azur sun.

This journey at sea is an excellent alternative to the car, especially in high season when the roads are very busy and subject to heavy traffic jams. Enjoy an exceptional setting, lulled by the waves, without any hassle and let your boat take you to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

On board, the possibilities for relaxation are endless: from the net where you can relax in total peace and quiet, to several other areas dedicated to comfort. As soon as you arrive, dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the sandy beach of Cap Taillat using the paddles provided. 

 

To satisfy your taste buds, you'll be served a delicious buffet meal, including black olive tapenade, Andalusian gazpacho, a selection of fresh salads, shrimp with pastis cooked on a plancha, chicken breast with fried potatoes, a selection of cheeses, fruit salad and muffins.

 

In the afternoon, after a nap in the sun, enjoy another swim stop before the cruise takes you to the famous Bay of Pampelone. Throughout the excursion, the open bar offers a generous selection of soft drinks and a punch planteur, adding a convivial touch to this day on the boat, a must for any visit to the Côte d'Azur.

Catamaran trip to the Îles de Lérins from Saint-Raphaël: an unforgettable adventure on the Côte d'Azur

Starting from Saint-Raphaël, embark on an unforgettable catamaran excursion to the famous Îles de Lérins, opposite Cannes. This day trip offers a unique double experience: before reaching the magnificent Îles de Lérins, your catamaran will take you along the impressive Esterel creeks, where you can admire the spectacular red cliffs falling into the Mediterranean Sea.

Once arrived, you'll be charmed by the turquoise waters of the Îles de Lérins, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Explore the underwater world and admire the ecomuseum's stunning submarine statues, located at a depth of 5 meters, which make this site even more magical. This excursion is an exceptional opportunity to discover these splendid islands while enjoying the comfort and conviviality of a day at sea on a catamaran departing from Saint-Raphaël.

Aboard the catamaran, you can enjoy a gourmet lunch of local specialties, while relaxing in the boat's comfortable seating areas. Enjoy sunbathing on the deckchairs, or relax in the shade for a moment of peace and calm. The combination of breathtaking scenery, water activities and relaxation makes this dayboat a perfect adventure for lovers of nature and serenity, offering an enchanted escape during your vacation on the Côte d'Azur.

Sunset catamaran cruise on the Côte d'Azur from Saint-Raphaël

This catamaran sunset trip is ideal for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a catamaran experience from Saint-Raphaël, or for those who prefer to avoid the heat of the day, especially with young children. The sunset catamaran excursion lasts 2 hours and includes a swimming break in front of the gorgeous Île d'Or, where you can also paddle.

The colors of the sunset over the Mediterranean waters and the red rocks of the Estérel are simply magical. On the way back, watch the sun set behind the rock of Roquebrune-sur-Argens, offering a majestic spectacle. Ending the day on the water creates a different mood, more soothing and romantic. Even if you've already been on a catamaran trip by day, don't miss the chance to experience it in the evening, as it offers a completely different atmosphere.

This sunset excursion includes an aperitif served on board with snacks and an open bar with soft drinks and punch planteur. At the end of the cruise, the vibe gets festive with dance music, allowing you to end the evening happily. A catamaran sunset cruise is an unforgettable experience that adds a special touch to your vacation on the Côte d'Azur.

Dinner aboard a catamaran on the Côte d'Azur: an unforgettable evening from Saint-Raphaël

If you'd like to spend an unusual and unforgettable evening during your vacation on the Côte d'Azur, or if you're looking for an original gift idea, we highly recommend a dinner at sea on a catamaran, departing from the port of Saint-Raphaël. This experience combines romance and conviviality with a spectacular sunset and live music. It's an exceptional evening that will leave you with happy memories, whether you're a couple or a family.

 

The excursion will take you to Cap Dramont, where you can swim at sunset and admire the amazing colors of the Esterel's red rocks reflected in the water. The sea trip lasts 3h30 aboard a maxi-catamaran, offering all the comfort you need for a memorable soirée.

 

The buffet dinner, featuring Mediterranean delights, is a true feast for the taste buds. On the menu: black olive tapenade, Andalusian gazpacho, a selection of fresh salads, shrimp with pastis cooked on a plancha, chicken breast with fried potatoes, a selection of cheeses, fruit salad and muffins. The meal is accompanied by a selection of red, rosé and white Provencal wines to sublimate each dish.

 

End the evening on a high note, lulled by the waves and the music, for a unique experience that will add a special flavour to your vacation on the Côte d'Azur.

Fireworks at sea: a magical show from a catamaran on the Côte d'Azur

During the summer season, evenings on the Côte d'Azur are often animated by spectacular firework displays, organized several times a week by the towns of Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus. For an even more exceptional experience, we invite you to admire these pyrotechnic displays from the sea, aboard a maxi catamaran. Imagine yourself on a boat, with an unobstructed view of the fireworks illuminating the sky at night, almost beneath the colorful sparkles. You'll feel privileged to enjoy this unique and unforgettable experience, complemented by refreshing drinks.

 

The departure point is the old port of Saint-Raphaël, with differents itineraries leading to several firing sites, such as the bay of Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël, the Île d'Or at Le Dramont, the charming port of Boulouris, or the Agay Bay.  Whether you're with family, friends or just a couple, an evening on a boat to watch the fireworks is a must.

 

Don't miss the chance to enjoy this outstanding experience during your vacation on the Côte d'Azur.

If you'd like to see the full fireworks program, check out the calendar of events here.

A brunch on a catamaran

Embark on an unforgettable day on a catamaran departing from Saint-Raphaël, for the all-new trendy “Brunch at Sea” excursion that combines discovery, relaxation and culinary delights. This excursion takes you through the magnificent Esterel creeks, where you can admire breathtaking scenery and dive into crystal-clear waters. Several swimming breaks are planned, giving you the chance to swim in secret coves and enjoy the region's natural beauty to its full.

This year's new feature is a buffet brunch served on board. You'll be able to sample a variety of tasty dishes that will delight your palate.

On the salty side, the buffet features scrambled eggs, bacon, avocado toast, smoked salmon navettes, French fried potatoes, and a cheese and charcuterie platter. For those with a sweet tooth, there are pancakes, mini muffins, croissants, pains au chocolat, madeleines and fresh fruit salad.

This catamaran excursion is ideal for families, friends or couples looking for a unique experience on the Côte d'Azur. Take advantage of this exceptional day to relax, explore and savor gourmet delights while sailing the Mediterranean waters. Book your place now for a memorable adventure under the Saint-Raphaël sun.

A private catamaran excursion departing from Saint-Raphaël

For those looking for an even more exclusive experience, there are also private catamaran trips on the Côte d'Azur for up to 12 people. Ideal for birthdays, bachelorette parties (EVJF) or simply a lazy day out with friends or family, these excursions offer the perfect ambiance for unforgettable moments.

 

Aboard the catamaran, you'll enjoy a barbecue and delicious meals on the open sea, while being pampered by an attentive skipper who will adapt to your rhythm and requests. You will be able to choose your own music to create the perfect atmosphere. Several swimming breaks are also included, giving you the chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters and explore secluded coves.

Opt for this personalized adventure and let yourself be seduced by the comfort, flexibility and charm of the Côte d'Azur, all aboard a privatized catamaran. 

We've detailed all possible catamaran excursions departing from Saint-Raphaël, offering you a varied choice to create unforgettable memories. Whether you opt for a full day of exploration, a half-day of discovery, or a special excursion such as dinner or a fireworks display, every experience promises to be exceptional. On board, a friendly and professional crew takes care of your comfort, while equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards allow you to have fun in the water. With an open bar and swimming stops in the region's most beautiful spots, every detail is carefully thought out for your enjoyment. Don't miss the opportunity to make this memorable day part of your Côte d'Azur vacation program, especially if you're staying in Saint-Raphaël.

How many people can a catamaran welcome?

Maxi catamarans can accommodate up to 110 people at full capacity. These boats offer enough space for each passenger to feel at ease and enjoy the excursion in complete tranquillity.

What is the minimum age for catamaran trips?

Catamaran trips are accessible to all ages. A large part of the boat is shaded, which is ideal if you're bringing young children. What's more, catamarans are renowned for their stability and safety, ensuring a pleasant and carefree experience for all passengers.

Where can I book a catamaran trip on the Côte d'Azur?

To book your catamaran excursions on the Côte d'Azur, you can visit the official tourist office website : Expérience Côte d'Azur. A special section dedicated to catamaran trips is available here. You can also book in person at the Fréjus or Saint-Raphaël tourist offices if you prefer to pay in cash or with vacation vouchers.

What times are available for catamaran trips on the Côte d'Azur departing from Saint-Raphaël?

You can choose between several departure times, depending on the program on offer: full-day excursions start at 9:30 am, with boarding at 9:20 am. Half-day excursions also depart at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., with boarding at 8:50 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. respectively. Sunset excursions start at 7:30 p.m., with boarding 10 minutes earlier. For a unique experience, dinner trips also depart at 7:30 p.m. to enjoy a magnificent sunset. Finally, firework displays are scheduled for 10 pm.

What catamaran itineraries are available from Saint-Raphaël?

From Saint-Raphaël, there are several catamaran excursions to discover. You can explore the Esterel creeks with their red rocks and the magnificent Cap Dramont, as well as the Ile d'Or. Another option is to sail to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez to enjoy the turquoise waters of Cap Taillat and the famous beaches of Pampelonne. You can also sail to the Lérins Islands, opposite Cannes, via the Esterel.

What activities are usually included in a catamaran trip?

During your catamaran cruise, you'll have at your disposal equipment such as paddles and snorkeling material to enjoy swimming breaks and have fun in the water.

Do catamaran trips offer diving or snorkeling opportunities?

Yes, absolutely! Depending on the type of activity you choose, you'll enjoy at least one swimming break, and up to three for day trips. The boat always makes a stopover in beautiful spots, such as in front of Ile d'Or, in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, or near the eco-museum on Ile Sainte-Marguerite, where you can observe statues at a depth of 5 meters. It's the perfect opportunity to dive and admire the underwater world.

What equipment should I bring for a catamaran trip?

To make the most of your catamaran trip, we recommend that you bring sunscreen, a hat if you want to relax in the sun (shaded areas are also available on board), your swimsuit for swimming breaks, and your own snorkeling equipment if you have it (fins, mask, snorkel). The crew can also provide equipment if required.

Are catamaran trips suitable for children?

Yes, catamaran trips are particularly suitable for children. The boat is very large and stable, providing a safe environment where children can move around on board in complete safety. There are also plenty of shaded areas for naps, and they can enjoy swimming breaks by jumping off the boat and climbing back up the ladder. What's more, the boat is equipped with toilets to ensure their comfort during the day at sea. It's the ideal family experience for discovering the sea at your leisure.

How long is a typical catamaran trip?

The duration of a catamaran cruise varies according to the type of trip you choose. You can opt for a half-day trip, a full-day trip, or a sunset cruise with dinner on board.