Cannes to St. Tropez Ferry: 5 Tips You Won’t Want to Miss!

I can still remember how excited my dad and were when we found out the Cannes to St. Tropez ferry was an option for a day trip.

We both had such glamorous visions of that part of the riviera, but in all our years of summering in the riviera, we’d never ventured over there.

The good news is it lives up to all the hype.

The bad news is that a day trip is hardly enough time to see and do all the things St. Tropez is famous for, though it gives you the perfect excuse to return!

In fact, now it’s one of my dad’s favorite day trips anytime he visits me in Antibes. Especially because it’s such a short train ride over to Cannes, or Nice (where there’s also a ferry).

It’s a day trip we both always recommend to friends and family, as you can’t beat the gorgeous views from the ferry, not to mention how quickly you get there.

Plus, taking the ferry from Cannes to St. Tropez is super easy, especially if you follow all my advice below.

Welcome to the Nice-Cannes-St. Tropez Ferry

Embarking on the Cannes – St. Tropez ferry is a delightful way to enjoy the sparkling waters and views between two of France’s most glamorous coastal towns.

Though, fair warning, if you’re hungover or get motion sickness, prepare, because water can sometimes be rough.

Ferry Services

• Route: Cannes to Saint Tropez
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and and fifteen minutes
• Frequency: Once a day
• Departure: Check the website for the seasonal schedule

Onboard, you’ll find amenities designed to enhance your voyage.

When you arrive in Saint Tropez, you’ll be in the perfect position to explore the charm and sophistication of one of France’s most renowned beach destinations.

Whether you’re shopping at luxury boutiques, dining at exquisite restaurants, or simply soaking up the sun, your ferry trip is the beginning of an unforgettable Riviera experience.

Planning Your Journey

Departure Information

Your maritime commute to St. Tropez begins at in Cannes’s marina at Quai Max Laubeuf.

Just a heads up, it’s at the end of the Laubeuf carpark at the marina.

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, since you’ll likely need to exchange your online voucher for a ticket at the counter.

Here the address in case you need it to put into your navigation.

Quai Laubeuf
Port de Cannes
06400 Cannes, France

Tickets and Booking

If you’re visiting during peak season (June-August), you absolutely want to book in advance, as boats sell out.

I book mine using the official website, which says that actual tickets need to be picked up ahead of departure at the ticket counter at least a day before.

That said, I’ve heard some people pick up tickets day of, though I never risk it, as I normally visit during peak times in August.

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Book your tickets ahead of time with GetYourGuide for same day ticket pick up!

Travel Essentials

Absolutely have your confirmation details and a photo ID handy for picking up your tickets.

Besides that, I like to bring a small snack and water to enjoy on the boat ride.

You can also purchase snacks and drinks on the ferry if you forget to pack some.

I like to have a pastry, so I have something to settle my stomach if the water is rough.

But if you know you have issues with boats, bring some motion sickness medication with you.

Whatever you do, don’t forget sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting during the summer.

If you plan on hitting up a public beach, also bring a blanket with you to lie on, otherwise it’s easy to rent a bed at a beach club.

And don’t forget one of my day trip necessities, a portable charger and cable to keep your phone going the entire day.

Policies and Accessibility

Travelers will be relieved to find transportation is wheelchair accessible on the first level.

If you need special help, contact the ferry service to confirm if they offer hotel pickup and drop-off services and to inquire about their policy on allowing service animals.

If you have a dog, good news. Like most places in France, you can bring your dog on board as long as they are on a leash and well-behaved.

Reaching Your Destination

As you sail into Saint-Tropez’s port, you’ll love seeing the town’s iconic skyline and lighthouse.

You’ll disembark just inside the port, which is a stone’s throw away from the town’s iconic marina and shopping streets.

You’ll get about five hours to explore before needing to be back on the ferry.

Types of Transfers

Various options are available for reaching St. Tropez by boat:

• Round-Trip Ferry: Fast and direct, get there in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Private Charter: For a premium, personalized experience.

Comparison of Travel Modes

If you’re really not sure about the ferry, or just want to know all your options to get to St. Tropez, here’s a rundown:

• Ferry: Usually the fastest and a scenic option.
• Bus: Often the cheapest way, but slower than the ferry.
• Train: Involves a combination with either a taxi or another ferry. Honestly, it’s a pain.
• Car: Offers independence but requires dealing with traffic and parking.

Onboard the Ferry

Amenities and Services

When you board the ferry from Cannes to St. Tropez, you’ll find a blend of essential amenities and pleasant experiences designed to make your journey enjoyable.

Amenities and Services

• Seating: Limited seating is available, so arriving early to secure a spot is a must, especially if you want a seat with a view!
• Cleanliness: The ferry maintains high standards of cleanliness, keeping your travel environment is pleasant.
• Concession Stand: There are snacks and drinks available on the main level. Bring cash, as they don’t always take card.

Experience During the Travel

Traveling from Cannes to St. Tropez via ferry is my favorite day trip because the boat ride feels like a mini cruise along the French Riviera.

As you travel, you’ll likely spot luxury yachts and sailboats gliding over the azure Mediterranean waters.

Mixed with the salt-tinged breezes and panoramic coastal views, you’ll likely pass the time quickly.

However, if you get seasick easily, or are hungover, be ready to feel a bit of nausea, especially if the waters are rough that day.

I’ve never had a problem, and then boarded with a small hangover after Bal des Fous last year and was miserable because the water was a tad rough.

If you find yourself in this situation, carb up before getting on the boat. It might make all the difference.

Also, as you’re picking your seat, give some thought to if you want to be outside in the sun for the whole ride, or if you’d prefer to be in the shade.

Discovering Saint-Tropez

Historical Sightseeing

Saint-Tropez is a famous for a lot, but it might be most famous thanks to French actress Brigitte Bardot, who shot to fame in the film And God Created Woman, shot on its beach of Pampelonne.

If you’ want to walk around checking out some of the historical architecture, you’ve got a few must-sees.

First, check out the Citadelle de St Tropez standing as a sentinel on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the French Riviera.

Inside, you’ll find the Musée d’Histoire Maritime, which pays homage to the town’s seafaring past.

Then you can stroll through the old La Ponche fishing quarter, the historical heart of Saint-Tropez.

Oh, and don’t miss the iconic St. Tropez Church, easily recognized by its beautiful bell tower.

Shopping and Leisure

Honestly, because I live out of my suitcase for months at a time, shopping isn’t something I tend to do a lot, but even browsing while strolling the streets is fun.

Shopping (or browsing) in Saint-Tropez really is an experience itself, with its winding cobblestone streets lined with a mix of high-end boutiques and quaint shops offering unique souvenirs.

Rue Général Allard is St. Tropez’s main historic street, lined with pretty pastel buildings occupied by mainly famous brands.

You can also shop the Place des Lices Market if you’re visiting on a Saturday.

It’s a fantastic and lively spot to check out local Provencal goods, including lavender, oils, flowers, and produce.

Whether you’re looking for the latest fashions or artisanal finds, the shopping scene in Saint-Tropez is unmatched.

Where to Eat

St. Tropez has tons of restaurant, cafes, and boulangeries to choose from.

If you’re feeling like splurging on a fancy Michelin starred lunch, check out La Terrasse – Cheval Blanc.

I haven’t had the privilege of dining there yet, but the views look amazing and if Michelin says it’s good, you’re in for a treat.

For a more touristy, slightly less pricey option, there’s a popular spot called Sénéquier in the marina.

Chances are you’ll recognize this spot from season two of Emily in Paris.

It’s always crowded, and a spot everyone loves for people watching and social media photos.

Personally, I like to have a cheap and chic day wandering around town, so I head straight to the boulangerie to pick up some treats.

On my last trip, I found Boulangerie “Aux Deux Fréres”, which has amazing Tarte Tropézienne, plus tons of other pasties and sandwiches to go.

I love stocking up on treats, and making my way to the beach to have my own little cheap and chic picnic.

Activities and Experiences

Since you only have about 5 hours to enjoy St. Tropez, you’e got two options.

It’s enough time to either hop in an Uber across town to one of its iconic beach clubs to soak in the sun for the afternoon.

Or do what I do, and stroll through the marina for a bit of people watching.

Then either sit down for a delicious lunch, or head to a bakery to pick up a Tarte Tropézienne, which is an iconic and incredibly delicious French pastry.

After, I enjoy walking through the town’s winding streets and to a nearby beach club to cool off with a cheeky cocktail on the beach.

If you want to do something similar, these are the spots I normally hit up:

Head to Boulangerie “Aux Deux Fréres” or Tarte Tropézienne. It’s not too far from the marina, so I love getting it to enjoy by the water.

I sample a lot of pastries, and this is one of the best I’ve had so far.

La Bouillabaisse Plage is a beach club near the port that’s perfect for grabbing a cool glass of Chablis while catching a few rays.

If you’re on a budget with your own beach blanket, there’s also a grocery store called UTile on the walk to a sand beach near the port.

You can either grab supplies there, or keep walking and you’ll see a small plaza with a juice shop, a Thai/sushi fusion spot, and a burger spot all just across from Plage des Perles (the beach).

Visitor Information

The arrival point in St. Tropez is L’Estacade Quai / Guepratte Quay.

Plan to arrive back at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to your departure time.

And whatever you do, don’t lose your return ticket, as there’s no counter to talk to anyone.

To plan your day in St. Tropez, keep an eye on the tourism board’s website for any special events.

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If you want to have an entire day planned exploring St. Tropez, check out this popular tour!

Returning to Cannes

Return Transfer Options

When it’s time to head back, the return boat transfer from Cannes to St. Tropez operates on time, so make sure you plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the planned departure time.

To secure your spot, just buy a round-trip ticket from the office in Cannes.

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The ferry sells out, so guarantee your day trip to St. Tropez by getting your ferry ticket today!

FAQs

What time does the ferry service between Cannes and St. Tropez operate?

The schedule changes seasonally, so check the official website for the latest times.

What are the ticket prices for the ferry from Cannes to St. Tropez?

At the time of publication, pricing for adult round trip tickets runs €65.00, with tickets for kids (4-10) running €52.00.

If you’re traveling with a child under 4, you’re in luck, they travel for free (reservation required).

Yes, you can purchase a one-way ticket. For the most up-to-date information on tickets and how to purchase them, visit the Trans Côte d’Azur FAQ page.

What is the duration of the ferry journey from Cannes to St. Tropez?

The ferry journey from Cannes to St. Tropez typically takes about one hour and 15 minutes.

How can I get from Cannes to St. Tropez if I miss the ferry?

If you miss the ferry, it’s possible to drive from Cannes to St. Tropez, which takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes.

If you don’t want to rent a car, you may be able to arrange a taxi or check other local transportation option, like the bus.

Setting Sail

It’s not even summer yet, and my family and I are already talking about our next vacation to the South of France for later this year.

You better bet we’ll be taking the Cannes to St. Tropez ferry during that trip.

My dad cannot get enough of the Tarte Tropézienne at the bakery there.

Let me know in the comments below what you’re most looking forward to seeing or trying in St. Tropez!