Yacht Destination

Îles de Lérins Yacht Charter

An Îles de Lérins yacht charter offers a tranquil escape just minutes from Cannes, where pine-clad shores, crystal-clear waters, and secluded coves create one of the Riviera’s most idyllic anchorages. Rich in history and natural beauty, these peaceful islands provide the perfect balance of privacy and proximity to the mainland’s glamour.

The Monastery on Île Saint-Honorat
Couple relaxing in lounge area of Riva Rivarama yacht
Lerins Islands Cannes, birds eye view
La Guerite Iles des Lerins Cannes

Îles de Lérins : Following in the Footsteps of Saints

Located just a short cruise from the mainland, the Îles de Lérins offer a serene sanctuary for guests on a French Riviera yacht charter. Sheltered from the bustle of the coast, these islands provide an immediate sense of escape from the crowds of nearby Cannes while remaining conveniently close for a day trip or overnight anchorage.

Known in antiquity as Lérina and Lero, the two principal islands — Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat — take their names from 4th-century saints and have preserved an atmosphere of remarkable tranquillity. Encircled by crystal-clear waters and fringed with pine and eucalyptus forests, they are bathed in golden Mediterranean light and rich with natural beauty.

For yacht charter guests, the Îles de Lérins represent one of the Riviera’s most idyllic anchorages: calm seas, exceptional privacy, and a timeless coastal ambience just minutes from the mainland’s glamour. Whether for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on deck, these islands offer a quintessential luxury yacht charter experience in a setting that feels wonderfully untouched.

How to get to the Îles de Lérins

Ferries to the Îles de Lérins operate from Cannes, Golfe-Juan, and Juan-les-Pins; however, there is no boat service linking the two islands, meaning visitors must choose one island to explore unless travelling by private vessel.

By far the most rewarding way to experience the Îles de Lérins is on a luxury yacht charter from Cannes. Chartering a yacht offers complete freedom from ferry schedules, allowing guests to explore both islands at their own pace. With a yacht charter, you can anchor close to the islands’ waterfront restaurants, enjoy secluded coves for swimming, and experience the tranquillity of the Îles de Lérins in complete comfort and privacy.

La Guerite Iles des Lerins Cannes
Lerins Islands Cannes, birds eye view

Île Sainte-Marguerite

The largest and most visited of the Îles de Lérins, Île Sainte-Marguerite is a highlight of any French Riviera yacht charter. Criss-crossed with scenic walking paths, the island invites exploration through fragrant Aleppo pines, strawberry trees, eucalyptus forests, and Mediterranean scrub. Guests arriving by yacht charter can enjoy swimming from secluded rocky coves or relax on one of the island’s quiet shingle beaches.

Rich in history, the island is home to Fort Royal, which became a state prison in the late 17th century and famously housed the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask between 1687 and 1698. Today, visitors can explore the fort and its cells, with entry also including access to the Musée de la Mer, showcasing archaeological artefacts from nearby shipwrecks and Roman wall murals discovered on the island.

Dining is an integral part of the yacht charter experience on Île Sainte-Marguerite. While snack kiosks and the casual terrace restaurant L’Escale sit near the ferry pier, the standout choice is La Guérite, a renowned waterfront restaurant offering superb sea views and refined Mediterranean cuisine. Signature dishes include octopus carpaccio with lemon oil, sea bass with artichoke purée, and indulgent tropical desserts — all best enjoyed as part of a relaxed day at anchor during a yacht charter from Cannes.

Bespoke Yacht Charter – Insider Tips: During the season, La Guérite operates a regular tender shuttle from Port Pierre Canto in Cannes, allowing yacht charter guests to enjoy the restaurant without moving their yacht — a seamless and elegant way to experience the island.

Île Saint-Honorat

The smaller and more secluded of the Îles de Lérins, Île Saint-Honorat offers a uniquely tranquil experience for guests enjoying a luxury yacht charter on the French Riviera. Revered in the Christian world, the island is home to an active monastery that has welcomed over 20 saints throughout its history, including Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who studied here.

In the 7th century, Île Saint-Honorat was home to around 700 monks; today, a small community of Cistercian monks continues this spiritual legacy, cultivating lavender, producing honey, and crafting wines and liqueurs. Yacht charter guests can sample and purchase local products, including the island’s renowned Lérina herbal liqueurs and fruit-based varieties such as mandarin and lemon.

The island benefits from a distinctive microclimate, allowing six grape varieties to flourish across eight hectares of vineyards. Wine lovers visiting by yacht charter will appreciate the estate’s refined wines, particularly the Syrah, while rare vintages such as the Cuvée Saint-Salonius Pinot Noir are prized discoveries for discerning collectors.

Exploring Île Saint-Honorat on foot reveals a network of peaceful pathways winding past vineyards, historic chapels, and fascinating Napoleonic-era ovens, once used to heat cannonballs to defend the island. For those on a yacht charter, Île Saint-Honorat offers a rare blend of history, culture, and serenity — a contemplative counterpoint to the glamour of nearby Cannes.

What To Do on Île Saint-Honorat

Visitors arriving by luxury yacht charter can explore the Monastère-forteresse, a striking fortified monastery positioned at the water’s edge, originally built to protect the monks from Saracen pirates and later attacks by Genoese and Spanish forces. Rising directly from the shoreline, the keep offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s defensive past.

From the upper terrace, yacht charter guests are rewarded with panoramic views across the Bay of Cannes and toward the dramatic red cliffs of the Estérel, making it one of the most scenic viewpoints in the area.

For dining, those enjoying a yacht charter can choose between a casual bite at Les Canailles or reserve a table at La Tonnelle, the island’s principal restaurant, which serves refined Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed, authentic setting — an ideal stop during a leisurely day at anchor.

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Book a Îles de Lérins Yacht Charter

Escape to crystal-clear waters and tranquil island beauty with a bespoke Îles de Lérins yacht charter. Anchor off Sainte-Marguerite or Saint-Honorat, swim in turquoise coves and enjoy long, relaxed lunches overlooking the Bay of Cannes — all from the privacy of your own luxury yacht.

Contact Bespoke Yacht Charter today to plan your Îles de Lérins yacht charter. Our experienced team will recommend the perfect yacht and craft a personalised itinerary, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable Riviera experience.

To check availability and book a charter, please get in touch with Bespoke Yacht Charter today.