France

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT YACHT CHARTERS IN FRANCE 

1. What makes the French Riviera one of the world’s most iconic destinations for a luxury yacht charter?

The French Riviera has long been synonymous with glamour, elegance and seaside sophistication, making it one of the most coveted yachting destinations in the world. From the Belle Époque charm of Nice to the cinematic atmosphere of Cannes, the region blends refined coastal living with dramatic landscapes, pristine bays and turquoise waters. Its combination of style, culture and natural beauty makes every stop along the coast feel special and distinct.

A yacht charter here offers unparalleled variety — anchor in serene coves surrounded by pine forests, enjoy Michelin-starred dining ashore, or spend the afternoon in chic beach clubs that define the Riviera lifestyle. With its vibrant events calendar, world-class marinas and effortlessly stylish atmosphere, the Riviera provides an unforgettable setting for both relaxation and sophisticated seaside living.

2. Which are the best ports and marinas to start a yacht charter in France – Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Antibes or Saint-Tropez?

The South of France offers an exceptional selection of marinas, each with its own appeal. Monaco is the pinnacle of luxury and efficiency, offering world-class services and the perfect starting point for guests seeking exclusivity. Antibes, home to Port Vauban, provides the largest superyacht berths in the region and excellent provisioning options. Cannes and Nice offer convenient access due to their proximity to international airports and major attractions.

Saint-Tropez, while more boutique in size, is ideal for charters focused on elegant beach life, lively evenings and the glamorous atmosphere of Pampelonne Beach. No matter which port you choose, each marina provides smooth embarkation, superb facilities and effortless access to the Riviera’s most beautiful cruising grounds.

3. How long should I plan for a yacht charter along the French Riviera or to Corsica?

A one-week charter is perfect for exploring the highlights of the French Riviera, offering ample time to enjoy Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes, Cap-Ferrat and Monaco at a relaxed pace. Within this timeframe, you can unwind in secluded bays, visit stylish beach clubs, stroll through historic old towns and enjoy scenic coastal cruising. The short distances between ports make the region ideal for guests who appreciate smooth, easy itineraries.

For those wishing to extend their adventure, 10–14 day charters allow for a beautiful combination of the French Riviera and Corsica. After enjoying the sophistication of the mainland coast, you can cross to Corsica’s wild bays, towering cliffs and charming villages — creating a wonderfully contrasting and deeply rewarding itinerary.

4. What are the must-see anchorages and highlights during a yacht charter in France?

Some of the Riviera’s most enchanting anchorages include the sheltered bays of Cap-Ferrat, the turquoise waters surrounding the Îles de Lérins near Cannes, and the serene coves of the Esterel coastline with its red volcanic rock formations. Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez remains one of the most iconic stops, offering chic beach clubs, fine dining and a lively summer atmosphere.

Further west, the Golden Isles — Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Île du Levant — offer crystal-clear waters and protected nature perfect for swimming and relaxation. Guests who venture towards Cassis will find the extraordinary Calanques, dramatic fjord-like inlets framed by towering limestone cliffs. Every route can be tailored to include a balance of glamour, natural beauty and cultural highlights.

5. When is the best time of year to charter a yacht in the South of France?

The ideal charter season runs from May to October, when the Mediterranean offers warm temperatures, calm seas and long sunny days. May, June and September are particularly enjoyable due to their mild weather, beautiful water clarity and slightly quieter marinas — ideal for guests seeking a refined and relaxed experience.

July and August bring peak summer energy, with vibrant nightlife, fashionable beach clubs and a festive atmosphere that defines the Riviera. These months also coincide with many social events, making them perfect for guests who enjoy the liveliest season. Whichever month you choose, the Riviera’s climate and atmosphere promise a memorable and sophisticated charter.

6. What types of yachts can I charter in France?

The French Riviera hosts one of the most diverse and prestigious yacht fleets in the world. Guests can choose from 20 to 100 meter+ motor and sailing yachts ideal for coastal cruising, spacious catamarans perfect for family holidays, offering expansive decks, dedicated crews and state-of-the-art amenities. The region is particularly known for its large selection of high-end charter vessels due to its strong international yachting scene.

Many yachts are based permanently in the Mediterranean and can easily reposition along the coastline to suit your itinerary. Whether you prefer refined elegance, high performance or expansive outdoor living, there is a yacht suited to every style of travel in the South of France.

7. Can I combine the French Riviera with Corsica during a yacht charter?

Yes, combining both destinations creates a wonderfully varied and enriching charter. The passage across the Mediterranean opens up the wild, rugged beauty of Corsica, offering a dramatic contrast to the polished glamour of the Riviera. From the stunning cliffs of Bonifacio to the turquoise bays of Palombaggia and the quiet anchorages of the Scandola Reserve, Corsica offers a completely different yet complementary experience.

This route is ideal for guests who enjoy a blend of cosmopolitan living and remote natural beauty. The yacht crew will plan the crossing and itinerary to ensure a seamless transition between the two regions, making it easy to enjoy both atmospheres within a single trip.

8. Do I need reservations for beach clubs, restaurants and events during a yacht charter in France?

Yes — reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak season. The Riviera is home to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after beach clubs and restaurants, including Club 55, Nikki Beach, Eden-Roc, La Guérite and countless Michelin-starred establishments. Your crew or charter broker will secure all bookings in advance to ensure effortless access — including tender drop-offs and preferred seating.

This also applies to major summer events such as the Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix and high-profile regattas, where demand is exceptionally high. With proper planning, you can enjoy these iconic experiences with seamless logistics and exceptional comfort.

9. Why is the South of France especially popular for superyacht charters during major events?

The French Riviera hosts some of the world’s most prestigious events, and attending them by yacht elevates the experience to an incomparable level. During the Monaco Grand Prix, yachts become private viewing platforms with front-row seats to the race. The Cannes Film Festival transforms the waterfront into a glamorous stage of premieres, parties and exclusive gatherings, where yachts serve as luxurious basecamps.

These events attract high-profile guests, making the region a hub of style, business and international networking. Chartering a yacht during these periods offers privacy, convenience and a unique vantage point, turning an already extraordinary occasion into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

10. Are there protected areas or anchoring restrictions along the French coast?

Yes, several areas along the South of France have anchoring regulations designed to protect the Posidonia seagrass, a vital part of the Mediterranean ecosystem. Restrictions apply in zones around Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes and parts of Corsica, with yachts required to anchor outside protected areas or use designated mooring buoys where available.

Your captain and crew are fully familiar with these regulations and will ensure all anchoring is done safely and responsibly. These guidelines help preserve the region’s crystal-clear waters, ensuring future guests can enjoy the same pristine conditions that make the Riviera so enchanting.