Saint Raphaël: Guided Cruise, Discover a Beautiful Coastline

Nestled along the stunning French Riviera, Saint-Raphaël offers a captivating coastal cruise that showcases the region’s natural beauty and rich history. Departing from the Old Port, this guided tour takes adventurers on a three-hour journey past Belle Époque villas, serene coves, and the rugged Estérel Massif. With optional activities and eco-friendly amenities on board, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque Mediterranean destination. What secrets might this cruise reveal about the allure of the French Riviera?

Key Points

• Set out on a 3-hour guided sea tour from the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël, discovering Belle Époque villas, Boulouris Landing Beach, Île d’Or, and the Estérel Massif.

• Enjoy the option to stop at the Anthéor Viaduct for paddleboard exploration, surrounded by the region’s natural beauty and tranquility.

• Depart promptly at 9:30 AM from the picturesque Old Port, with passengers advised to arrive 10 minutes early with electronic tickets.

• Marvel at the captivating display of late 19th-century Belle Époque villas along the coastline, reflecting the extravagant lifestyle of the wealthy elite.

• Experience on-board amenities, including paddleboards, snacks, and eco-friendly beverages, while the tour upholds sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Sea Tour

A guided sea tour from the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël provides visitors an engaging 3-hour experience to explore the stunning coastline.

The tour is available in both French and English, with prices starting at $64.17 per person. Guests can take advantage of the flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Key highlights include Belle Époque villas, Boulouris Landing Beach, Île d’Or, and the red rocks of the Estérel Massif.

An optional stop at the Anthéor Viaduct allows for paddleboard exploration. Onboard, visitors enjoy a selection of snacks, eco-friendly beverages, and an aperitif.

Departing From the Old Port

The tour departs promptly at 9:30 AM from the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël.

Passengers should arrive at least 10 minutes early with their electronic tickets to ensure a smooth boarding process. The crew can’t accommodate late arrivals.

The Old Port serves as the ideal starting point, providing a picturesque backdrop for the beginning of the sea adventure.

The Old Port serves as the ideal starting point, providing a picturesque backdrop for the beginning of the sea adventure.

From here, the boat will set sail, offering passengers a unique perspective of the Belle Époque villas, Boulouris Landing Beach, and the iconic Île d’Or, which inspired Hergé’s Tintin.

The journey along the Estérel Massif coastline is about to begin.

Exploring Belle Époque Villas

As the boat departs the Old Port, passengers are treated to a captivating display of Belle Époque villas lining the coastline.

These opulent residences, constructed in the late 19th century, showcase the architectural splendor of the French Riviera’s golden age.

Adorned with intricate facades, towers, and decorative elements, the villas reflect the extravagant lifestyle of the wealthy elite who once summered in Saint-Raphaël.

Cruising past these magnificent structures provides a glimpse into the region’s illustrious past, where the grandeur of a bygone era is preserved for modern visitors to admire.

Visiting Île D’or and Cape Dramont

After cruising past the Belle Époque villas, the boat approaches the captivating Île d’Or, a small island that served as inspiration for Hergé’s iconic Tintin character.

Guests marvel at the island’s rugged, reddish cliffs as the vessel rounds Cape Dramont, the eastern edge of the Estérel Massif. The dramatic red rocks and lush vegetation create a stunning backdrop for the turquoise waters.

As the tour continues, the boat enters Agay Bay, where the Anthéor Viaduct, a historic railroad bridge, stands as a testament to the region’s past.

This diverse coastal landscape offers a memorable glimpse into the natural beauty of Saint-Raphaël.

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Discovering Calanque Des Contrebandiers

Cruising past the Anthéor Viaduct, the boat glides into the serene Calanque des Contrebandiers, a picturesque inlet with towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear azure waters. This hidden gem, once a smugglers’ hideaway, offers a tranquil respite from the bustling coastline. Guests can disembark and explore the cove on paddleboards, taking in the stunning natural surroundings.

| Feature | Description |

| ——- | ———– |

| Landscape | Towering limestone cliffs and azure waters |

| History | Former smugglers’ hideaway |

| Activities | Paddleboarding to explore the cove |

| Atmosphere | Serene and tranquil |

Enjoying Agay Bay and Île Des Vieilles

Continuing the journey, the boat glides into the picturesque Agay Bay, known for its sheltered coves and idyllic islands.

The group takes in the stunning views of the Île des Vieilles, a small island with fascinating geological formations. The captain provides insights about the island’s history and wildlife.

The group marveled at the Île des Vieilles, a small island with captivating geological wonders, as the captain shared its intriguing history and wildlife.

Passengers have the opportunity to explore the area further using the provided paddleboards, gliding along the calm waters for a serene experience.

As the tour nears its end, the boat heads back to the Old Port, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Saint-Raphaël’s natural beauty.

Stopping at the Anthéor Viaduct

As the boat approaches the Anthéor Viaduct, the captain announces an opportunity for a refreshing break.

The viaduct, an impressive stone structure spanning the turquoise waters, serves as the ideal anchorage spot. Passengers can disembark and explore the area on paddleboards, taking in the stunning red cliffs and lush greenery surrounding the cove.

The crew provides snacks and eco-friendly beverages, allowing travelers to recharge before continuing the scenic cruise.

This stop not only offers a chance to stretch one’s legs but also immerses guests in the natural beauty that defines the Estérel Massif coastline.

On-Board Amenities and Sustainability

The sea tour offers a range of on-board amenities to enhance the passenger experience.

Paddleboards are available for self-exploration during the anchor stop. A selection of snacks and eco-friendly beverages from the local brand Ôchwette are served, including soft drinks and an aperitif Planteur Punch.

The tour company demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by using plastic-free dispensers, reducing environmental impact.

With these thoughtful touches, passengers can enjoy the scenic coastline in comfort while contributing to responsible tourism practices.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

No, passengers cannot bring their own food or drinks on board. The tour includes a selection of snacks and beverages from local brands, as part of the overall on-board experience and commitment to sustainability.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

According to the tour overview, the standard duration is 3 hours. There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour. Guests should plan accordingly, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Larger Groups?

Yes, the tour operator offers group discounts. For groups of 4 or more, customers can receive up to 10% off the per person rate. Customers should inquire about group pricing when booking to take advantage of these savings.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join the guided sea tour. Families with young children can enjoy the experience together.

Can I Book Private/Customized Tours for Special Occasions?

Yes, the tour operator offers private and customized cruises for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events. Guests can work with the company to tailor the itinerary and experience to their needs.

Final Words

The guided cruise from Saint-Raphaël’s Old Port offers a unique opportunity to experience the French Riviera’s breathtaking beauty. Visitors can discover stunning Belle Époque villas, explore the serene Calanque des Contrebandiers, and enjoy the region’s rich history and pristine nature. With eco-friendly amenities and optional paddleboarding stops, this three-hour adventure captures the essence of luxury and tranquility along the picturesque coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: