The short ferry crossing from Cannes to Île Sainte-Marguerite offers a slice of tranquility on the French Riviera. In just 15 minutes, you can swap city streets for pine-scented trails, hidden coves and centuries-old history.
How to get to Île Sainte-Marguerite
Boats to the Île Sainte-Marguerite depart from Quai Laubeuf, in the Old Port of Cannes. The ferries run several times daily, year-round, though schedules are more frequent from spring to autumn.
- First departure from Cannes: 07:30 between April and November, 08.30 in winter
- Last departure from Cannes: 17.30
- Last return from the island: 18.30
The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes, offering views of the bay and the Esterel mountains along the way.
Ticket prices
From the latest fares on the Trans Côte d’Azur website, return tickets cost the following amounts:
- Adults: €18.50
- Youth (13–25), seniors (65+), large families: €17 (proof required)
- Children (5–12): €12.50
- Under 5s: Free
- Last-trip special (final sailing of the day): €15
A port fee of €1.91 applies to each ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at the quay, with payment by card, cash, AmEx or cheque.
What to expect onboard
Crossings are on open-deck passenger ferries with indoor seating. Drinks can be purchased on-board, but there are no toilets. Boarding is straightforward—arrive 15 minutes early, especially in peak summer.
Things to do on Île Sainte-Marguerite
Once you land at the island’s jetty, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Highlights include:
- Fort Royal and the Iron Mask Museum – a 17th-century fortress with maritime and prison history.
- Coastal walking trail – it takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete a circuit of the island, with shaded forest and sea views.
- Batéguier Pond – a birdwatching spot with migratory species. Look out for herons and nightingales
- Underwater eco-museum – snorkel among submerged sculptures that double as artificial reefs.
- Beaches and coves – perfect for downtime or a swim in clear waters.
Two seasonal restaurants and a couple of snack kiosks operate from spring to autumn; outside those months, self-catering is advisable. Of the restaurants, La Differnnce is cheaper than La Guerite. Neither is great.
Practical tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—the trails are natural, not paved.
- Bring sun protection and water, especially in summer.
- Check the return ferry timetable before setting off to avoid being stranded.
- Dogs on leads are welcome on board and on the island.
- Bicycles, scooters and drones are prohibited.
A half-day is enough to see the main sights, but a full day allows time for leisurely walks and swims.
All prices are correct at the time of writing – 15 August 2025 – but subject to change in the future.
More France travel
Other France travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- The day I decided to walk to France.
- Can you get next-day tickets for Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in Normandy?
- A practical guide to visiting the Normandy American Cemetery.
- Is the Nice to Monaco ferry the best way to get to Monaco?
- The end of the First World War at the Glade of the Armistice in Compiègne.
