ULTIMATE GUIDE TO YACHT CHARTERS ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA

Luxury Introduction

The French Riviera holds one of the strongest reputations in global yachting. The region begins in Saint-Tropez and extends to Monaco, with a coastline formed by coves, bays, islands, cliffs, marinas, and beaches. It offers calm water throughout most of the summer. It provides short cruising distances between each destination. It supports a wide range of yacht sizes. It delivers reliable weather, organized marinas, and established restaurant access for guests arriving by tender.

These characteristics shape the Riviera into a stable and dependable charter region. Families value its safety and predictable sea state. Couples appreciate the quiet anchorages and private evenings. Groups enjoy the active ports, waterfront restaurants, and beach clubs. Corporate travelers value the controlled environment that keeps schedules intact. The coastline supports each type of traveler without requiring long crossings or demanding sea conditions.

The water remains warm from late May to early October. The wind stays manageable on most days because the coastline provides natural shelter. The geography of the Riviera limits swell in many areas. This stability forms the foundation of the region’s popularity. You can move between Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco in a single itinerary without strain. Each movement feels simple.

Charter yachts in this region follow a structured service model. Every yacht has a trained crew. The captain plans routes and selects anchorages. The chef prepares meals tailored to your preferences. The deck team organizes water toys, handles tender transfers, and maintains the exterior. The interior crew manages cabins, dining spaces, and service. The overall outcome is a calm, organized day from start to finish.

The French Riviera also benefits from strong onshore support. The ports of Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco operate with consistent standards. They handle arrivals with clarity and maintain safe berths for yachts of all sizes. Restaurants accept yacht reservations. Beach clubs coordinate tender access. This coordination allows guests to combine time on board with time on shore without friction.

This guide explains the complete Riviera charter experience. It shows how a typical day unfolds. It breaks down the yacht types available. It describes the destinations along the coastline. It offers practical itineraries for one day, two days, three days, and one week. It outlines pricing structures. It provides guidance on choosing the right yacht for your goals. It includes the questions most guests ask before booking. The purpose is to give you clarity and confidence as you evaluate your options.

What a French Riviera Yacht Charter Feels Like

A day on the Riviera follows a calm rhythm shaped by the geography of the region. You wake to quiet water. You enjoy a slow breakfast. You cruise short distances. You anchor in clear bays. You swim, relax, and explore. You enjoy lunch either on the yacht or on shore. You move between anchorages at the pace you prefer. You watch the coastline shift through the afternoon. You end the day with dinner on board or an evening walk in town.

Morning Routine

Mornings begin with soft light and minimal movement. The coastline blocks wind from several directions, which keeps the surface of the water smooth. You wake to a clean deck, a prepared table, and a quiet environment. Breakfast is served on the aft deck or upper deck. You choose between fruit, pastries, eggs, yogurt, and warm dishes prepared by the chef. Coffee and juice are served without delay. The setting stays relaxed.

The captain reviews the day’s conditions. You decide how you want the first part of the day to unfold. If you want a short cruise, you leave the anchorage and move toward a new bay. If you want to stay where you are, the crew prepares the toys. Most groups begin with a short cruise because distances remain short.

Common movements include:

• Saint-Tropez to Pampelonne

• Cannes to the Lerins Islands

• Monaco to Cap Ferrat

• Antibes to Juan-les-Pins

• Villefranche to Eze

Most routes take between ten and thirty minutes. You reach the next bay quickly. You anchor without delay.

Once anchored, the deck team sets up towels and equipment. The water feels inviting from the first moment. Guests enter at their own pace. Children often enter immediately. Adults follow with a slower rhythm. Paddle boards, snorkel sets, and seabobs appear on the water. The atmosphere remains light and calm.

Midday Rhythm

Midday brings warmth, bright water, and the longest stretch of open time. This is when the yacht feels most like a private retreat. The sun reaches its highest point. The water holds its deepest color. You spend time swimming or resting while the crew manages the background tasks.

Lunch offers two clear options: dining on board or dining on shore. Lunch on board provides privacy. The chef prepares dishes that match your preferences. Meals often include seafood, salads, grilled vegetables, and fruit. You sit in the shade with a view of the coastline.

Lunch on shore provides a change of setting. Pampelonne Beach includes several well-known restaurants. The Lerins Islands offer quiet waterfront spots. Cap Ferrat includes small landings with simple access. The captain manages tender transfers. You return to the yacht when you are ready.

After lunch, the group splits into activities. Some rest on sun pads. Some sit in shaded areas. Some return to the water. The pace remains slow. The crew supports each choice.

Afternoons on Board

Afternoons provide the most consistent sea conditions. The coastline protects the region from several directions. The water takes on softer patterns. The movement of the yacht remains light.

Many guests choose to move to a second anchorage in the afternoon. The captain selects a spot that matches sunlight, privacy, and depth requirements. The cruise remains short. You arrive quickly and begin swimming again.

Toys return to the water. Drinks are served. Music plays in the background. This period often becomes the most social part of the day. Guests feel comfortable. The environment stays peaceful.

Evening Experience

Evenings on the Riviera have a stable pattern. The water becomes still as the sun lowers. The coastline glows with warm color. You return from the water. You shower. The crew prepares the decks for dinner.

Dinner on board offers privacy and calm. The chef prepares dishes that fit your preferences. The table is set with attention. The atmosphere feels controlled and quiet. You enjoy a long meal without interruption.

If you want a town setting, the yacht docks in Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes, or Monaco. Each port offers restaurants, boutiques, and waterfront walks. You spend the evening on shore and return to the yacht whenever you want to rest.

Yacht Types and How to Choose the Right One

Choosing the right yacht shapes the comfort, pace, and structure of your charter. The French Riviera offers one of the widest selections of yacht categories in the Mediterranean. Each category fits specific group sizes, travel goals, and service expectations.

This section explains each yacht type in direct, simple detail. It also explains each type fits and what kind of experience it supports.

Day Yachts

Day yachts range from ten to twenty meters. They offer fast cruising speeds and open-air space. Cabins remain minimal because these yachts focus on daytime activity. They reach anchorages quickly and work well for groups who want to explore several spots in a single day.

Day yachts fit guests who want:

• Simple movement

• Fast transfers

• Beach club visits

• Short routes

• Active swimming days

A day yacht becomes the practical choice for guests who want a flexible plan with minimal structure.

Multi-Day Yachts

Multi-day yachts range from twenty to thirty-five meters. These yachts support overnight stays. They include multiple cabins, indoor salons, shaded lounges, and dining areas. They offer stability and privacy for longer trips.

They fit families, couples, and small groups who want:

• Quiet mornings

• Comfortable cabins

• Structured meals

• A relaxed pace

• Calm nights at anchor

Multi-day yachts provide a balanced mix of comfort, service, and space. They hold enough toys for children and enough shaded areas for adults.

Superyachts

Superyachts range from thirty-five to fifty meters. They offer multiple decks and a higher crew count. Decks include jacuzzis, bars, and larger dining spaces. Interiors include lounges, suites, and private rooms.

Superyachts fit guests who want:

• High service standards

• Clear separation between indoor and outdoor spaces

• Several dining areas

• Strong stability

• Long itineraries

• A higher level of privacy

These yachts also carry larger tenders and more advanced toys. They provide a more structured onboard routine with consistent service throughout the day.

Mega Yachts

Mega yachts measure fifty meters or more. These yachts serve as floating hotels. They include multiple decks, gyms, cinema rooms, spa rooms, and large beach clubs. Crew numbers increase to manage service requirements.

Mega yachts fit guests who want:

• Maximum space

• A complete set of amenities

• Full service

• Large-group travel

• Extended holidays

These yachts deliver a controlled environment with clear separation between privacy and shared space.

How to Choose the Right Yacht for Your Trip

Choosing a yacht involves more than selecting a size. The correct choice depends on the way you want your character to feel. Below are clear selection points that help you decide without confusion.

Group Size

A small group fits well on a multi-day yacht or a day yacht. A medium group fits well on a superyacht. A large group fits well on a mega yacht.

Desired Pace

If you want fast movements, choose a day yacht or a performance yacht. If you want a relaxed schedule, choose a multi-day yacht. If you want a structured environment, choose a superyacht. If you want maximum comfort, choose a mega yacht.

Stability Needs

If children are on board, choose a multi-day yacht with stabilizers. If elderly guests are on board, choose a larger yacht with wide decks. If the group wants quiet anchorages, choose a yacht with strong stabilization.

Dining Preferences

If you want gastronomy on board, choose a multi-day yacht or larger. If you prefer beach club lunches, choose a day yacht. If you want multiple dining locations, choose a superyacht or larger.

Privacy Requirements

If privacy is the priority, choose a yacht above thirty meters. If privacy is essential at night, choose a yacht with larger cabins and fewer neighboring vessels at anchor.

Budget Structure

Day yachts have lower overall costs. Multi-day yachts provide the best ratio between cost and comfort. Superyachts and mega yachts provide maximum space, service, and stability. The correct choice depends on how you want each part of the day to feel.

Destinations Along the French Riviera

The Riviera includes several coastal towns and anchorages. Each one offers a distinct pace, visual setting, and type of activity. Below is a clear, practical breakdown of the key destinations. Each description focuses on what matters for decision-making.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez offers two main experiences. The first is Pampelonne Beach. The second is the town itself. Pampelonne provides long sandy beaches, clear water, beach clubs, and straightforward tender access. The town offers boutiques, restaurants, and a lively waterfront in the evening.

Key anchorages include:

• Pampelonne

• Cap Taillat

• Baie des Canebiers

Saint-Tropez fits groups who enjoy a balance of quiet mornings and active afternoons.

Cannes

Cannes provides direct access to the Lerins Islands. These islands sit ten minutes from shore and offer calm water, sheltered channels, and reliable swimming areas. Families appreciate the privacy and safe water conditions.

Key anchorages include:

• Ile Sainte-Marguerite

• Ile Saint-Honorat

• Eastern and western channels

Cannes fits guests who want a mix of island time and city access.

Antibes

Antibes offers a quiet coastline. Cap d’Antibes includes several coves that hold clean and shallow water. The area supports slow afternoons, swimming, and relaxed itineraries.

Key anchorages include:

• La Garoupe

• Baie des Milliardaires

• Juan-les-Pins

Antibes fits families and groups who want a slower pace.

Villefranche

Villefranche holds one of the deepest natural bays on the Riviera. The water stays calm through most of the day and evening. The village sits against steep hills, which creates a quiet environment.

Key anchorages include:

• The main bay

• Western edges with deeper water

Villefranche fits guests who want calm evenings and quiet surroundings.

Cap Ferrat

Cap Ferrat provides clear water and sheltered coves. The headland protects anchorages from several directions. The scenery includes rocky cliffs, pine trees, and deep blue water.

Key anchorages include:

• Paloma Bay

• Passable

• Southern cliffs

Cap Ferrat fits guests who want scenery, privacy, and minimal movement.

Monaco

Monaco offers structured marina service, clean facilities, and high-end restaurants. It provides a stable base for routes toward Cap Ferrat and the Italian coastline.

Key nearby anchorages include:

• Eze

• Roquebrune

• Cap Martin

Monaco fits guests who want controlled logistics and refined evenings.

Italian Riviera

The Italian Riviera is accessible from Monaco. Towns include Bordighera, Ventimiglia, and Sanremo. The coastline becomes steeper, with deeper colors and less built-up surroundings.

Italian anchorages suit guests who want a variation from the French coastline.

Suggested Itineraries

Itineraries on the French Riviera remain flexible because distances are short and conditions are predictable. You can adjust each route based on the group’s pace, onshore plans, or preferred anchorages. The captain monitors the weather each day and selects bays that hold calm water, clear visibility, and safe depth.

Below are practical itineraries that reflect how guests move through the region.

One-Day Itinerary: Cannes and the Lerins Islands

This itinerary fits guests who want calm water, short routes, and simple access to restaurants or beach areas.

Morning departure from Cannes. Cruise ten minutes to the Lerins Islands. Anchor on the eastern or western side, depending on the wind. The water remains clear and shallow. Use paddle boards and snorkel gear. Swim near the sandy patches. Guests often enjoy the quiet atmosphere in these channels.

LunchLunch can be served on board in shaded areas or at a small waterfront restaurant on the island. Tender transfers are short and controlled. This keeps timing flexible. Lunch on board remains the more private option.

Afternoon, move to a second anchorage. The northern channels offer deeper water and fewer boats. Swim again. Relax. Use toys. Return to Cannes in the late afternoon.

This itinerary fits families, couples, and groups who want structure and minimal movement.

One-Day Itinerary: Saint-Tropez and Pampelonne

This route fits guests who want a mix of quiet coves and beach clubs.

Morning: Depart from Saint-Tropez. Cruise to Pampelonne. Anchor near the center of the beach. Swim in the clear water. Guests often enjoy the open layout of day yachts in this area.

Many guests choose lunch at a beach club. The captain coordinates tender transfers to Club 55, Gigi, or similar options.

Afternoon Cruise to Cap Taillat. The water becomes clearer near the headland. The area includes several coves that hold calm conditions throughout the afternoon. Guests swim, relax, and use toys. Return to Saint-Tropez or remain at anchor for dinner on board.

This itinerary works for day yachts, performance yachts, and multi-day yachts.

Two-Day Itinerary: Saint-Tropez to Cannes

This route fits guests who want variety without rushing.

Day 1: Spend the morning in Pampelonne. Swim and rest. Move to Cap Taillat after lunch. Anchor in shallow water. Enjoy a calm evening and dinner on board. Stay at anchor or return to Saint-Tropez.

Day 2: Depart in the morning. Cruise toward Cannes. Stop at the Lerins Islands. Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing. End the day in Cannes or anchor near the islands if the conditions permit.

This two-day route gives guests a mix of beach clubs, islands, and quiet coves.

Three-Day Itinerary: Monaco, Cannes, Saint-Tropez

This itinerary fits guests who want several major destinations in a short time.

Day 1: Depart Monaco. Cruise to Cap Ferrat. Swim at Paloma Bay. Move to Villefranche in the afternoon. Anchor for dinner. Enjoy a quiet evening in the natural bay.

Day 2: Depart in the morning. Cruise toward Cannes. Stop at the Lerins Islands. Swim in shallow water. Move to Cannes for dinner in town or remain at anchor.

Day 3: Depart in the morning. Cruise to Saint-Tropez. Visit Cap Taillat. Swim and rest. End the day in Pampelonne or near the old port.

This itinerary works well for multi-day yachts, superyachts, and larger groups.

Seven-Day Itinerary: Full Riviera Circuit

This longer route fits guests who want complete coverage of the region without rushing.

Day 1: Monaco to Cap Ferrat. Swim and rest.

Day 2: Cap Ferrat to Villefranche. Overnight at anchor.

Day 3: Villefranche to Antibes. Visit Cap d’Antibes.

Day 4: Antibes to Cannes. Explore the Lerins Islands.

Day 5: Cannes to Saint-Tropez. Evening in port or at anchor.

Day 6: Pampelonne and Cap Taillat. Water toys and swimming.

Day 7: Return toward Cannes or Antibes.

This itinerary suits multi-day yachts, superyachts, and mega yachts.

Pricing Explained

Pricing on the French Riviera follows a clear structure. Costs depend on yacht size, season, crew level, fuel use, and onboard service. Below is a clean breakdown so you can evaluate the full cost without uncertainty.

Day Yacht Rates

Day yachts offer predictable pricing because they are used for single-day outings.

Typical pricing:• 10 to 15 meters: 2,500 to 4,500 per day • 15 to 20 meters: 4,500 to 6,700 per day

Fuel remains an additional cost and depends on the distance traveled. Drinks and food are separate unless specified in advance. Day yachts use marinas in Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, and Monaco to coordinate pick-ups.

Multi-Day Yacht Rates

Multi-day yachts support longer stays. They include cabins and multiple service areas.

Typical pricing:• 20 to 35 meters: 4,500 to 15,800 per day

The price supports:

• Crew

• Cabins• Toys

• Fuel (covered through APA)

• Dining service

• Interior support

• Tender operations

These yachts deliver privacy and stability at a moderate overall cost.

Superyacht Rates

Superyachts offer expanded service and larger spaces.

Typical pricing:

• 35 to 50 meters: 167,000 to 1.2M per week

These yachts include:

• A trained chef

• A full interior team

• A deck crew and water toy team

• Advanced toys

• Strong stability systems

Superyachts fit high service expectations.

Mega Yacht Rates

Mega yachts exceed fifty meters and use hotel-level service.

Prices vary widely and depend on the yacht’s exact size, design, and crew structure.

These yachts support:

• Large groups

• Extended itineraries

• Multiple decks

• Spa and gym areas

VAT

France applies a 20 percent VAT to most charters. This rate is consistent across the region.

APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance)

The APA covers operational spending, such as:

• Fuel

• Food

• Drinks

• Port fees

• Special requests

APA is usually set at 30 percent of the base rate. This amount is held and managed by the captain.

Fuel Costs

Fuel consumption depends on:

• Yacht size

• Speed

• Distance traveled

Slower routes use less fuel.

Port Fees

Port fees depend on the marina and the season. Peak months require planning.

Food and Drink

Food and drink costs vary depending on menu complexity. The chef purchases ingredients based on your preferences.

Other Factors

Costs increase with:

• Larger yachts

• More crew members

• Higher service levels

• Longer distances

Best Yacht Options by Budget and Travel Goals

Choosing the right yacht depends on how you want each day to feel. The Riviera supports several travel styles. Each group has different needs in comfort, privacy, service, and movement.

This section gives clear guidance without unnecessary steps.

For Couples

Couples benefit from privacy, calm decks, and stable cabins. A yacht between twenty and twenty-seven meters fits this structure well. These yachts include enough shaded areas for quiet mornings and enough open areas for swimming and sunbathing. The interior stays simple and controlled. The crew count remains small, which creates a relaxed atmosphere.

Couples often choose:

• Multi-day yachts with two or three cabins

• Quiet anchorages near Cap Ferrat, Antibes, or the Lerins Islands

• Simple routes with slow movement

• Meals served on deck during sunset

A larger yacht works if couples want more space or more stability, but most find twenty to twenty-seven meters ideal.

For Families

Families require stability, toys, shaded areas, and clear routines. A yacht between twenty-seven and thirty-five meters works well. These yachts include stabilizers that reduce movement. They offer enough interior volume to separate children’s areas from adult spaces. They carry a variety of toys such as paddle boards, snorkel sets, and seabobs.

Families often prefer:

• Safe swimming areas

• Short routes with minimal movement

• Dining on board

• Early evenings at anchor

• Itineraries focused on the Lerins Islands, Saint-Tropez coves, or Antibes

A yacht in this range supports both activity and rest without pressure.

For Party Groups

Groups who want social days require open deck layouts and fast movement. Day yachts and performance yachts fit this well. These yachts support music, swimming, and quick transfers to beach clubs. They hold enough space for groups who want to move between several anchorages in a single day.

Party groups benefit from:

• High cruising speed

• Simple schedules

• Strong sound systems

• Quick tender access to beach clubs

• Larger sun pads

These yachts suit single-day itineraries or short multi-day plans.

For Corporate Groups

Corporate groups need space for dining, conversation, and privacy. A yacht between thirty-five and forty-five meters supports this well. These yachts include indoor salons for meetings, shaded decks for conversations, and formal dining areas.

Corporate groups often prefer:

• Calm bays

• Controlled dining environments

• Evenings in port

• Clear separation between work and rest areas

A superyacht offers the right balance between professionalism and comfort.

For Large Groups

Large groups require a yacht with several cabins, multiple decks, and a high crew count. Mega yachts above fifty meters provide this. These yachts hold large lounges, wide decks, gyms, spa areas, and beach clubs. They support clear separation between private and shared areas.

Large groups benefit from:

• Ample deck space

• Several dining areas

• Enough toys for groups of all ages

• Strong stability

• Clear service structure

These yachts work best for week-long itineraries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses the questions most guests ask before confirming a charter. The answers are short, direct, and practical.

How far apart are the destinations on the Riviera

Most towns are fifteen to forty-five minutes apart. Movements remain short and calm.

Do we need to plan the route in advance

No. The captain adjusts routes each day.

Is the water calm during the summer

Yes. The coastline provides natural shelter. The water stays stable on most days.

Does the yacht include Wi-Fi

Yes.

Are half-day charters offered

Availability is limited in peak summer.

Are pets allowed

Some yachts accept small dogs. Approval is required.

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You can now view our full collection of yachts available along the French Riviera. Each yacht includes a trained crew, a calm service structure, and routes designed for comfort. Explore day yachts, multi-day yachts, and superyachts based in Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez. The coastline offers clear water, quiet bays, and consistent summer conditions. Your charter begins with a simple message or a direct visit to our fleet page.