Why choose a boat hire in the Gorges du Verdon?

Why visit the Verdon by boat

Visiting the Verdon by boat allows you to admire the scenery from the lake and enjoy quality time together, without the effort of paddling. Cruising offers a different perspective on the riverbanks and encourages you to take the time to explore.

Admire the Verdon’s scenery as you glide along the turquoise waters

From Lake Sainte-Croix, your gaze takes in the expanse of water before lingering on the contours of the banks. As the boat moves forward, the views change: a cove comes into view, a bank is revealed, and the landscape takes on a new dimension. The approach to the Gorges du Verdon extends this journey of discovery, with their cliffs visible from the boat.

That’s the beauty of a boat trip: taking the time to look at your surroundings. You can photograph the scenery, follow the lake’s shades of turquoise with your eyes, or simply enjoy the view during an excursion away from the daily grind.

Sharing a relaxing break with family or friends

A boat trip provides the perfect setting for shared moments. On board, you can get together to chat, look out at the banks and enjoy the trip together. Children explore the landscape alongside the adults, whilst friends exchange their impressions: the trip becomes a shared experience, without anyone having to paddle or pedal.

For those who wish to explore the Verdon without opting for a sporting activity, this option is all about relaxation. The pleasure also lies in these simple moments: pointing out a detail in the landscape, taking a photo together or letting the conversation flow with the rhythm of the boat’s journey.

The advantages of electric boats

Quiet, stable and easy to steer, Surf Centre’s boats allow you to explore Lake Sainte-Croix in comfort. Their electric motors and equipment make the trip a breeze, from getting to grips with the boat to taking a break on board.

Can you sail on the Verdon in a boat without a licence?

Yes, the boats offered by Surf Centre can be operated without a boating licence. However, an adult must be present on board. You can therefore enjoy this exploration of the Verdon without holding a boating licence.

Before setting off, our team will go through the safety instructions with you and advise you on the route. This briefing gives you the chance to get your bearings and ask any questions before you leave the base. The ease with which our boats can be operated complements this support: you’ll set off with all the information you need to navigate within authorised areas and follow your chosen route.

Comfort on board to fully enjoy the trip

With a maximum capacity of six people, our boats can accommodate your family or group of friends all on the same vessel. All are fitted with a sun awning to provide shade whilst sailing. A table is provided for your picnic, whilst a ladder makes it easy to climb back on board after a swim, in accordance with the instructions given at the start.

These facilities enhance every stage of the excursion, ensuring the trip is more than just a journey. The boat’s stability contributes to a comfortable ride, and its quiet operation allows you to enjoy the surroundings whilst chatting with the other passengers.

Where can you go by boat from the Surf Centre?

From Margaridon Beach, you can reach the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon or explore the coves of Lake Sainte-Croix. Costebelle Island also offers the chance to take a trip close to the centre, depending on how much time you have.

Reaching the Gorges du Verdon via the Galetas Bridge

Head for the gorges for an excursion that combines a crossing of the lake with a tour of the cliffs. From Surf Centre, the recommended route takes you to the Galetas Bridge, which you’ll pass under to reach the entrance to the canyon. The sweeping views of Sainte-Croix are then replaced by a journey between the rock faces: the landscape changes, adding a whole new dimension to the trip.

Allow around three hours for the round trip on this route starting from our base. This timeframe serves as a guide when choosing your hire if the Gorges are the main aim of your trip. Before setting off, discuss the route and the day’s conditions with our team so that you can plan your trip, taking the return journey into account.

Discover the lake’s coves and Costebelle Island

Would you prefer to spend your outing exploring the landscapes of Sainte-Croix? The lake’s shores and coves offer another option for a trip. From the boat, you’ll discover the small beaches and the contours of the shoreline, whilst enjoying the open waters of the lake.

Near the Surf Centre, Costebelle Island is also a destination for a shorter excursion. It’s an option to consider when you want to enjoy a boat trip without undertaking the full route to the gorges.

These routes are ideal for exploring the area from the water: mooring at the beaches and in the gorges is not permitted. Choose your trip with our team based on your preferences and the duration of your hire.

Tips before you hire

To prepare for your trip, choose a duration suited to your desired route, book well in advance and allow time for check-in before boarding. Once there, our team’s guidance will help you find your bearings and take the weather conditions into account.

How to book your trip on the Verdon?

To hire a boat on the Verdon, start by deciding on your itinerary: a trip near the base or an excursion to the gorges. Our one-, two- or three-hour packages allow you to tailor your booking to the amount of time you wish to spend on the water.

During peak season, we recommend booking online to secure your slot. Visit our Verdon Gorges boat hire to explore the options available and plan your visit. Once you’ve booked your trip, please arrive fifteen minutes early. This time is set aside for a briefing, safety instructions and route advice, so you can set off armed with all the information you need.

Getting your bearings before casting off

Before each trip, we check the equipment and go over the safety instructions. Life jackets are provided, and you’ll be given a map showing the routes and recommended durations. Make the most of this briefing to locate your destination and understand the navigation limits.

The trip is subject to weather conditions: the route is therefore also planned according to the conditions on the day. Our team will guide you to the authorised areas and help you choose a suitable route. Keep these points in mind during your trip to stay on schedule and ensure a smooth return to the base.

FAQs for boat hire in the Gorges du Verdon

How much does it cost to hire a boat from Surf Centre?

Hire costs €50 for one hour, €95 for two hours and €135 for three hours. Choose your package based on your planned trip, allowing around three hours for the return journey to the gorges.

How many people can fit on one boat?

Our boats can accommodate up to six people. This capacity allows you to share the trip with family or friends on the same boat. At least one adult must be present on board throughout the trip.

Where do the Surf Centre boats set off from?

The boats depart from Margaridon Beach, in Les Salles-sur-Verdon, on Lake Sainte-Croix. You board directly from our water sports centre. Please arrive fifteen minutes before your booked time to receive safety instructions and advice on the route.

Can we bring our dog on board?

Yes, pets are allowed on board Surf Centre boats: your dog can therefore accompany you on the trip. If you have any questions about bringing your dog on board, please speak to our team when booking your trip.

Can we moor at the beaches during the trip?

No, mooring at beaches or in the Gorges du Verdon is not permitted with our boats. You’ll explore the riverbanks and coves from the water, whilst staying within the designated navigation areas indicated before you set off.