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Where to Cruise in December: The Riviera’s Most Scenic Winter Anchorages
- Philip de Wilde
- Dec 16, 2025
- 2 min read
Introduction
December casts a different kind of beauty over the French Riviera. Soft winter light, calm Mediterranean waters, and quiet coastal roads create a serene setting that few travelers experience. For yacht guests, this is one of the most peaceful months to explore the coastline—empty bays, warm interiors, and panoramic views without the summer rush.
Winter Light and Calm Water
December delivers some of the Riviera’s clearest days. The sun sits lower on the horizon, creating long golden reflections across the sea. Water stays calm, anchorages stay quiet, and visibility along the coast feels almost cinematic. It’s an ideal month for slow cruising, photography, and quiet mornings on deck.
The Riviera’s Most Scenic Winter Anchorages
Villefranche-sur-Mer
A natural deep-water bay sheltered from winter breezes. Its colorful hillside village feels peaceful in December, and the anchorage remains one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Cap Ferrat
Known for luxury villas and dramatic cliffs, Cap Ferrat’s winter coastline offers calm water and wide open views. With few boats around, anchoring here becomes a private moment surrounded by nature.
Lérins Islands (Cannes)
Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat feel untouched in December. Anchor in the turquoise channel between the islands and enjoy quiet walks, forest paths, and peaceful afternoons onboard.
Saint-Tropez Bay
Without the summer fleet, Saint-Tropez becomes serene. Winter sunlight reflects gently off the pastel village, and the bay offers smooth water ideal for overnight anchorage.
Èze and Beaulieu
These small, elegant coastal pockets provide dramatic cliffside views and calm anchorages perfect for winter cruising.
Why December Mornings Feel Special
With fewer boats on the water and empty beaches, mornings become the highlight of the day. Guests wake to absolute calm, enjoy breakfast on enclosed decks, and watch the light change across the Riviera’s coastline. Winter creates a sense of privacy that simply isn’t possible from June to September.
Plan a Winter Route on the Côte d’Azur
Winter charters create flexibility—travelers can explore Monaco, Cap Ferrat, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez without the limitations of seasonal traffic or crowded marinas. Each anchorage feels personal, quiet, and beautifully lit by the season.
Explore winter-ready yachts and itinerary options:
Final Thoughts
December brings out the Riviera’s most photogenic and peaceful side. Calm water, quiet bays, and warm winter interiors make this one of the best months to cruise. With the right yacht and route, guests enjoy the Côte d’Azur’s beauty in its most elegant season.
