Port Vauban & Maritime Shuttles
Port Vauban: Antibes’ Premier Maritime Hub
Nestled between the historic Old Town and the city’s fortified walls, Port Vauban stands as the nautical heart of Antibes, and is recognized as one of the largest pleasure ports in Europe.
More than a marina, it serves as a true maritime crossroads—welcoming luxury yachts, coastal shuttles, sightseeing cruises, and local vessels.
Its strategic location on the Mediterranean makes it the perfect departure point for coastal exploration, access to secluded beaches, or private sea outings.
The port is surrounded by a full range of amenities: harbormaster services, embarkation points, parking, restaurants, nautical agencies, and specialized shops.
In season, Port Vauban becomes a bustling hub, bringing together boaters, visitors, and maritime professionals.
Just a short walk from the city center and well-connected by public transport, it’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to discover Antibes from the sea.
Coastal Shuttle Boats: A Practical and Scenic Transport Option
From Port Vauban, coastal shuttle boats provide a convenient and enjoyable way to discover the French Riviera.
During the high season, regular routes connect Antibes with key destinations including Cannes, Golfe-Juan, Saint-Tropez, and Monaco.
These services are a great alternative to road travel, offering uninterrupted sea views and avoiding traffic congestion.
Operating from May through September, the crossings are carried out by safe, comfortable vessels, with both day and evening sailings, depending on the route.
Many operators offer round-trip options, ideal for planning same-day visits.
As timetables may change due to weather conditions, travelers are advised to book ahead and check departure information online.
These maritime links are popular with locals and visitors alike, providing a reliable seasonal transport solution along the coast.
Boat Trips and Coastal Excursions in Antibes
Antibes offers numerous opportunities for sea excursions, ideal for discovering the coastline from a different perspective, whether for a few hours or a half-day. From Port Vauban, several local companies offer guided boat trips, accessible to all, that cruise along the Cap d’Antibes coastline, revealing its wild coves, footpaths inaccessible by land, and iconic villas nestled in the pine forest.
Most tours include a local guide or multilingual audio commentary to enrich the experience with regional insights.
Additional options include trips to the Lérins Islands, dolphin-watching tours, sunset cruises, or even themed culinary outings.
Private bookings with skipper and tailored service are available for families, groups, or special events.
These maritime activities bring a relaxing, enriching, and authentic dimension to your visit, complementing traditional land-based sightseeing.
Ferry Travel Made Easy: Explore Corsica or Italy from Antibes
Though Port Vauban doesn’t offer direct ferries to Corsica or Italy, travelers can easily reach nearby ports in Nice or Cannes, both under 30 minutes away.
From the Port of Nice, frequent sailings with Corsica Ferries and La Méridionale connect you to Bastia, Ajaccio, or Île-Rousse, with comfortable ships featuring cabins, restaurants, and lounges for longer journeys.
For those dreaming of the Italian Riviera or Tuscany, routes to Genoa, Savona, and Livorno are available from Nice or Toulon.
all easily reached by train or chauffeured car.
Thus, Antibes is a convenient starting point for any maritime adventure in the Mediterranean, combining a charming stopover with quick access to regional ferries.
Getting to Port Vauban: Quick and Easy Access
Port Vauban benefits from a central location and excellent accessibility, whether you arrive in Antibes by train, by car, or on foot. From Antibes SNCF train station, it’s just a fifteen-minute walk through the city center or you can take one of the Envibus bus lines (notably lines A, 2, or 14) that serve stops near the port.
If you’re driving, public parking is available close to the port—Pré-des-Pêcheurs is one of the most convenient spots for direct access to the piers.
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off steps from the docks, making transfers with luggage or groups smooth and easy.
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop off passengers right next to the boarding areas, which is ideal for transfers with luggage or for groups. For pedestrians, the port is also connected to the pedestrian areas of Old Antibes and the coastal path, allowing for a pleasant arrival on foot from the beaches or central hotels.
However you choose to arrive, Port Vauban is the gateway to the sea—perfect for day visitors, locals, and boating enthusiasts alike.
Practical Information: Schedules, Prices & Online Booking
To make the most of your maritime experience from Antibes, it’s highly recommended to check schedules in advance—especially during peak season, when demand is high and space is limited.
Coastal shuttle departures and sea excursions generally run between 9 AM and 7 PM, with frequency depending on destination and weather conditions.
Prices vary by duration, type of service, and provider, but most round-trip shuttle fares range from €15 to €40, while private cruises are usually priced upon request.
Online booking is strongly encouraged—either on the official websites of providers or via partner platforms—which may also offer early-bird discounts.
Tickets can also be purchased on-site at the dock or ticket booth, subject to availability.
For a smooth experience, it’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure, with your ticket or digital confirmation in hand.
Most local operators display real-time schedules and fares on their websites, ensuring quick and reliable access to all essential info.