Yacht Charter Cannes: Luxury Yacht Rentals on the French Riviera
Cannes is the crown jewel of the French Riviera yacht charter scene – a destination where cinematic glamour meets Mediterranean charm. This legendary resort town offers two beautiful beaches, two well-equipped superyacht harbors, and a plethora of world-class hotels and fine dining, easily satisfying even the most discerning travelers . From the famed Croisette Boulevard lined with designer boutiques and palatial Belle Époque hotels, to the quaint cobbled lanes of Le Suquet (Old Town), Cannes exudes a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. It’s no wonder that Cannes is a prime destination for luxury yacht charters, boasting an enchanting mix of history and contemporary allure, plus proximity to other sought-after ports like Nice, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez . In essence, if you’re planning a French Riviera yacht charter, Cannes deserves the top spot on your itinerary.
Why You Can’t Miss Cannes When Chartering a Yacht in the French Riviera
Chartering a yacht in Cannes is about more than just renting a boat – it’s about unlocking an exclusive lifestyle. Every spring, the world’s elite flock to Cannes for marquee events such as the Cannes International Film Festival, during which the bay transforms into a floating red-carpet arena. The festival attracts some of the largest and most magnificent superyachts in the world each year (the 156m Dilbar and 143m Sailing Yacht A have made appearances), turning the harbor into an extension of the glamour onscreen. Come September, the Cannes Yachting Festival – Europe’s largest in-water boat show – takes center stage, with around 650 boats and 55,000 attendees converging in the Port of Cannes . From your yacht’s deck, you can witness these spectacular events in ultimate comfort, sipping champagne as fireworks light up the Riviera sky.
Equally compelling are the everyday pleasures of a Cannes yacht charter. With a crewed charter aboard a private motor yacht or superyacht, you enjoy five-star service afloat. Boatcrowd’s modern luxury fleet (spanning sleek 55’ sport cruisers to 100’+ opulent superyachts) comes fully crewed with a professional captain, gourmet chef, and attentive stewards to cater to your every need. Imagine stepping aboard a Cannes yacht rental where a dedicated crew greets you with chilled rosé and canapés. Your only “task” is to relax on plush sun pads, take in the sea breeze, and decide whether to explore a hidden cove or dock for some designer shopping. Outstanding customer service is a hallmark of the Boatcrowd experience – from the moment you inquire to the final goodbye, every detail is handled with white-glove precision. Prefer a particular vintage of wine or have specific dietary requests for the chef? Consider it done. Want last-minute changes to the day’s plan? Your captain and expert local guides are on hand to seamlessly adjust the itinerary, leveraging their insider knowledge of Côte d’Azur waters.
Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic escape, a family looking for an unforgettable holiday, or a group of friends celebrating in style, a yacht charter Cannes experience can be tailored to you. For families, Cannes offers both luxury and kid-friendly fun – think safe lagoon-like anchorages for swimming, onboard movie nights under the stars, and excursions to nearby islands where legends of pirates and princes capture young imaginations. For luxury travelers and high-net-worth individuals, Cannes delivers exclusivity at every turn: private beach clubs, Michelin-star dining, and after-dinner casino outings in Monte Carlo via helicopter (if you wish). All of this is accessible from the sumptuous base of your own yacht’s salon and staterooms.
Crucially, Cannes is an ideal embarkation point for exploring the French Riviera by sea. You can keep Cannes as your base, taking short day cruises to Îles de Lérins or Cap d’Antibes, or set off on a multi-day voyage to the greater Riviera coast. The cruising season here runs long – from the balmy days of May through September (peak summer months) when the social scene is in full swing, to the quieter luxury of late spring and early autumn . No matter when you visit, you’ll find the weather pleasant and the scenery spectacular. Boatcrowd ensures your yacht is stocked, your crew is ready, and your personalized itinerary is set for you to experience Cannes to the fullest. In the next sections, we highlight some of the most popular local cruising adventures and a sample three-day itinerary to inspire your own bespoke journey. Your Cannes yachting adventure awaits – simply inquire now to let Boatcrowd start planning every exquisite detail.
Most Popular Day Charters in Cannes
A day charter in Cannes opens up a world of exclusive destinations and activities, all within a few hours’ cruise from port. With your private yacht at the ready, you can explore secluded islands, glamorous capes, and vibrant coastal townsbefore returning to Cannes by evening. Here are some of the most popular day charter options around Cannes, each offering a unique taste of the French Riviera yacht charter lifestyle:
Îles de Lérins – Idyllic Island Escape
Only 15 minutes by boat from the Port of Cannes, the twin islands of Saint-Honorat and Sainte-Marguerite offer a total change of scenery . Far from the bustle of Cannes’ promenades, the Lérins Islands are a tranquil paradise of pine forests, rocky coves, and turquoise waters. Yachts often drop anchor in the shallow channel between the islands, where you can swim off the stern in crystal-clear sea or paddle a kayak over to shore. Sainte-Marguerite, the larger island, is famous for its 17th-century Fort Royal – the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned here, a bit of lore that adds intrigue to your visit . You can tender ashore to explore the fort’s museum or walk the fragrant eucalyptus trails. For lunch, imagine dining with your feet in the sand at La Guérite, a chic beach restaurant nestled on Sainte-Marguerite’s shoreline (a favorite of celebrities seeking a low-key escape). Meanwhile, Saint-Honorat Island, owned by Cistercian monks, offers a more spiritual retreat – the monks have been producing fine wines and liqueurs here for centuries . A quick tour of their vineyards or a tasting of the local monastery-made wine is a rare delight. After lunch, snorkel around the islands – since 2021 an underwater eco-museum of submerged sculptures has been installed just 100 meters off Sainte-Marguerite’s beach, creating an unusual snorkeling attraction . The Îles de Lérins encapsulate why a Cannes yacht charter is so special: you can immerse yourself in unspoilt nature and history by day, then be back at your palatial hotel or onboard jacuzzi by night.
Antibes & Cap d’Antibes – Riviera Glamour and Coastal Beauty
Just a short cruise east of Cannes lies Antibes, a historic port town that has long been a magnet for yacht owners and artists alike. Approaching Antibes by yacht, you’ll notice the formidable Fort Carré guarding the harbor and a long quay lined with some of the world’s most impressive superyachts. In fact, Port Vauban in Antibes is Europe’s largest yachting harbor, with over 1,500 berths (including 18 slots for superyachts up to 160 meters) . This “Billionaires’ Quay” is a sight in itself – a testament to the Riviera’s status among the global elite. Step ashore and wander Antibes’ quaint Old Town: within the ancient city walls you’ll find the Provençal market brimming with local cheeses, lavender, and fresh produce, as well as the Picasso Museum (housed in the Grimaldi Castle where Picasso once lived and painted). By late morning, your captain can navigate around the Cap d’Antibes, the lush green peninsula jutting into the sea between Antibes and Juan-les-Pins. The waters around Cap d’Antibes are wonderfully clear and calm – perfect for a refreshing swim or trying out the yacht’s water toys. Snorkel over posidonia seagrass meadows or ride a jet-ski with the glamorous shoreline as your backdrop.
Along the rocky shores of the cape are hidden coves and the famous Plage de la Garoupe, a crescent of white sand where elite beach clubs beckon. The pinnacle of Cap d’Antibes’ exclusivity is the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, an iconic five-star retreat perched at the tip of the cape. If arranged in advance, your yacht’s tender can pull up to Eden Roc’s private dock – arriving by boat to this legendary hotel is a truly “movie star” moment. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or cocktail in Eden-Roc’s seaside pavilion, gazing out at your yacht bobbing in the bay. As the afternoon sun mellows, cruise slowly back toward Cannes with the shoreline of villas and pine groves gliding by. On the return, you might pause off Juan-les-Pins – the neighboring resort known for its lively beach scene – to enjoy a sunset swim or to listen for the notes of jazz (the town hosts a famed jazz festival in summer). An Antibes day charter blends culture, luxury, and natural beauty in a way only the French Riviera can.
Exclusive Beach Club Experience – Champagne Lunch by the Sea
A huge draw for the yachting crowd in Cannes is the array of exclusive beach clubs dotting the coast. With a crewed yacht at your disposal, you can hop between these stylish spots effortlessly, arriving by tender and often skipping the queues. One popular itinerary is to begin with a cruise along the Cannes Corniche toward the Estérel Massif – a stretch of dramatic red-rock cliffs west of Cannes. In hidden coves like Théoule-sur-Mer, your crew can set up a private beach picnic or you can take the tender ashore to dine at a waterfront bistro. Afterwards, head back toward Cannes for an afternoon of people-watching at a high-end beach club. Along La Croisette in Cannes itself, clubs like the Carlton Beach Club and Baoli Beach offer sun loungers, gourmet menus, and DJ music right on the sand – perfect for those who want to dip into the jet-set social scene. For a more intimate vibe, many yacht charter guests love La Guérite on Île Sainte-Marguerite, as mentioned earlier, which transforms from a laid-back lunch spot to a fashionable party as the day goes on. Another sought-after venue is Plage Keller on the Cap d’Antibes, famed for its golden sands and the upscale Le César restaurant serving fresh Mediterranean fare. Wherever you choose, your captain will coordinate timing and reservations so that when you step off the tender, your table is ready and the rosé is chilled. After a decadent lunch and perhaps a beachside massage, you can retreat back to your yacht’s sundeck – a peaceful contrast to the shore – or take a siesta in the air-conditioned lounge.
Boatcrowd’s local knowledge truly shines here: our team can secure prime spots at even the most in-demand clubs, or find a quiet off-the-beaten-path beach if you prefer privacy. As the sun begins to lower, consider a slow cruise past the Golfe-Juan bay (where Napoleon landed on his return from Elba – a bit of history) and back to Cannes. With the skyline of Cannes coming alive in the evening light, your day of luxury draws to a close. Of course, you could cap it off with dinner at a waterfront Michelin-starred restaurant or a stroll along the harbor. The beauty of a day charter with Boatcrowd is its flexibility – your day is tailored exactly to your desires, whether that’s partying at a beach club or finding a secluded slice of coast just for you.
(Any of these day charter ideas can be customized – feel free to mix and match. On a single day you might swim at the Lérins Islands in the morning, enjoy Antibes by midday, and toast at a beach club by afternoon. It’s all possible with a fast, comfortable yacht and an expert crew charting the optimal course. Speak to Boatcrowd’s charter specialists to design a day in Cannes that matches your interests – whether it’s a family-friendly island adventure or a chic celebration with friends. With Cannes as your starting point, the entire Riviera is at your fingertips.)
3-Day Yacht Charter Cannes – Sample Itinerary
For those with more time, a multi-day yacht charter allows you to venture further along the Riviera and truly indulge in the yachting lifestyle. The following is a sample 3-day itinerary for a crewed yacht charter from Cannes, showcasing the highlights of Cannes and nearby gems like Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Nice, and Monaco. This itinerary balances relaxation, exploration, and a touch of Cannes’ famous glamour, including timing for the big events if you choose to charter during festival season. Of course, Boatcrowd can extend or modify this route to craft your perfect voyage – but here’s an inspiring starting point:
Day 1: Cannes Magic and Island Tranquility
Your journey begins in Cannes. After a welcome aboard your private motor yacht in one of Cannes’ modern harbors (either the Vieux Port by the old town or Port Canto at the end of La Croisette), take a moment to settle into your luxurious surroundings. Your captain and crew give a safety briefing and overview of the itinerary, then it’s off to sea. In late morning, cruise a short distance to the Îles de Lérins, those idyllic islands just offshore, to ease into relaxation mode. Enjoy freshly prepared lunch on the aft deck, perhaps a spread of local Niçoise salads, grilled catch-of-the-day, and chilled Provence rosé – all tailored by your personal chef. Anchor in the croquet-clear shallows between Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat and spend the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The kids (and curious adults) can snorkel over to see the underwater eco-museum statues, or the crew can organize a guided visit on shore to Fort Royal to unravel the mystery of the Man in the Iron Mask. By mid-afternoon, you’ll head back toward Cannes, but not before a leisurely panoramic cruise around the Bay of Cannes. As you approach the harbor, Cannes’ skyline comes into view – the palatial hotels, the palm-lined Croisette, and the rolling hills behind the city. If you’re chartering in May during the Cannes Film Festival, this is the time you’ll start noticing an unusual sight: countless superyachts anchored off the Croisette, effectively forming a floating VIP village for the festival . Your captain can secure a prime anchorage or berth so you, too, are in the heart of the action. From your yacht, you might hear the faint sounds of music from beachfront parties or even catch sight of a celebrity boarding a neighboring vessel for a soirée.
In the evening, step ashore in your finest attire (or remain onboard for a private dinner – the choice is yours). If onshore, you could stroll down the red carpet at the Palais (public access events happen around the festival) or simply watch the flash of cameras from a distance while dining at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the harbor. Boatcrowd can arrange exclusive experiences, such as passes to certain festival events or reservations at Cannes’ top tables, ensuring you don’t miss the glamour. Not visiting during festival time? Cannes in summer still buzzes with nightlife. Try your luck at the Cannes Casino or enjoy live jazz at an elegant lounge. Meanwhile, your yacht remains your sanctuary – you can always return to the privacy of your stateroom when you’ve had your fill of excitement. In September, alternatively, you might coincide your charter with the Cannes Yachting Festival, where Cannes’ harbors are filled with the newest yachts on the market. From your berth, you can see dazzling displays of yachts by day , and perhaps join industry cocktail events in the evening. After an exciting night, retire to the gentle rocking of your yacht – your crew is on hand with a midnight snack or nightcap if you wish. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the twinkling lights of Cannes, with anticipation of more adventures ahead.
Day 2: Coastal Cruising – Cap d’Antibes, Nice & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Awake to a beautiful Riviera morning. Enjoy breakfast al fresco on the sundeck – flaky croissants and pastries from a Cannes boulangerie, seasonal fruit, and rich French press coffee prepared by your steward. As Cannes slowly fades in your wake, your yacht charts a course eastward. First, you’ll pass the elegant outline of Cap d’Antibes once more. If you didn’t visit Antibes on a day charter earlier, you have the option now: perhaps a quick stop at Port Vauban to stroll the Antibes morning market for fresh truffles and cheeses (your chef can source ingredients here too), or a detour to cruise by the Bay of Juan-les-Pins for a nostalgic look at its sandy beaches.
Continuing along the coast, the city of Nice comes into view by late morning – its famous Promenade des Anglais lining the curve of the Bay of Angels. The captain can do a scenic slow cruise across Nice’s bay so you can photograph the sweeping cityscape backed by the Alps. If you’re inclined to explore Nice, the crew will dock at the Port of Nice. Set foot in the lively Old Town (“Vieux Nice”) where you can meander through narrow streets filled with gelato stands, flower markets, and Baroque churches. A quick visit to the Cours Saleya market (bursting with blooms and spices) or a café stop for a socca (a local chickpea pancake) offers a taste of Niçoise life. For art lovers, a visit to the Matisse or Chagall Museum could be arranged, though time is limited on a single day – you might save museums for a dedicated trip. Back on board, lunch is served as you depart Nice.
Dine on the upper deck as you round the cape toward Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This peninsula is one of the most exclusive enclaves on the planet, often called the “Peninsula of Billionaires” for its concentration of luxury villas (from former King Leopold II’s estate to modern tech tycoon hideaways). The shoreline of Cap Ferrat is spectacular – cliffs adorned with pines and villas giving way to secluded coves with turquoise water. Your yacht slips into the serene Baie de Saint-Jean, and the crew drops anchor off Paloma Beach, a picturesque cove beloved by Picasso and named after his daughter. Here, you have the afternoon to relax and play. Swim to the small beach or let the crew ferry you by tender. Paloma Beach hosts a renowned beach club/restaurant where, if you’re ready for a mid-afternoon aperitif, you can enjoy a chilled drink with your toes in the sand and a view of your yacht just offshore.
Another option is to visit the famous Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, perched on Cap Ferrat. If interested, a private tour can be arranged – you’d tender to the port of Saint-Jean and take a short car ride up to this rose-colored mansion. Its gardens are a marvel of fountains and florals, and high tea on the patio feels like a scene from the Riviera’s Golden Age. By late afternoon, you’re back aboard, and it’s time to cruise a few minutes west into the neighboring bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This deep, sheltered bay, ringed by a charming village and dramatic hills, is one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Riviera. The water is deep blue and often as still as a lake – perfect for an evening swim or some paddleboarding as the sun starts to dip. The yacht remains at anchor here for the night to give you a peaceful evening away from city lights.
Dinner is served on deck under the stars – perhaps a gourmet Provençal meal highlighting the day’s fresh market finds, paired with wines from the monks of Saint-Honorat you visited earlier. With a gentle breeze, you dine with the glittering lights of Villefranche and Nice in the distance. The night at Cap Ferrat/Villefranche is pure tranquility. Enjoy a movie under the stars on the outdoor cinema setup, or simply stargaze from the bow – the crew can arrange blankets and lanterns for a cozy lounge. By now, you’ve experienced the Riviera’s natural beauty and cultural towns, all in one fulfilling day.
Day 3: The Glamour of Monaco
This morning, wake up in your floating sanctuary and perhaps start with a refreshing dip – there’s nothing like a morning swim in the calm, warm waters of Villefranche before the world wakes up. After breakfast, it’s anchors up for the final leg of your journey: Monaco awaits just 10 nautical miles east. Enjoy the sunshine on deck during the cruise around Cap Ferrat and past the seaside town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Soon, the towering skyline of Monte Carlo becomes visible on the horizon. You arrive in the sovereign city-state of Monaco by late morning. Your yacht can enter Port Hercule, Monaco’s main harbor, famed for its annual role as part of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit and for hosting some of the priciest mega-yachts on the Med. As you maneuver to your berth, you’ll be surrounded by polished superyachts – a clear sign that you’ve arrived in one of the world’s most exclusive ports.
Step ashore in Monte Carlo, the district of Monaco synonymous with luxury. Many guests choose to dress up a bit today to match Monaco’s upscale aura. You might begin with a visit to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the epitome of Old World glamour (jackets are required inside; even if you’re not gambling, it’s worth seeing the ornate atrium and rooms where James Bond scenes have been set). Just outside the casino, the Café de Paris offers prime people-watching over a cappuccino or cocktail – ultra-luxury cars parade by, and elegantly dressed visitors wander the designer boutiques of Casino Square. If you’re interested in history, take a car or uphill walk to the Rock of Monaco (Le Rocher) where the old town and the Prince’s Palace stand. Time it right and you can see the changing of the guard late morning in front of the palace. From the ramparts, you get a panoramic view of your yacht in the harbor below and the entire principality. Return to the yacht for lunch, or if you prefer, indulge in one of Monaco’s fine restaurants – perhaps the Michelin-starred Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris for an unforgettable meal (Boatcrowd can secure a reservation).
Back on board in the afternoon, why not take the yacht out for a spin along Monaco’s coast? You could cruise over to Larvotto Bay (Monaco’s seaside beach area) for one more round of swimming or jet-skiing with the striking Monaco skyline behind you. As late afternoon arrives, it’s sadly time to think about wrapping up your three-day odyssey. You have options for how to conclude: Many charters will sail back to Cannes (roughly a 2-3 hour cruise) so you can disembark where you started. If so, you’ll depart Monaco by mid-afternoon, perhaps lounging on the flybridge sunbeds and reminiscing as the yacht powers westward. Enjoy a last sunset at sea as you approach Cannes – a poetic bookend to your journey, watching the sky glow orange over the Esterel hills. Alternatively, you might choose to disembark in Monaco to extend your stay there (or catch a helicopter transfer back to the Nice Airport for convenience).
Boatcrowd is happy to arrange end-of-charter logistics to suit your travel plans. Whichever way, the crew will ensure your luggage is handled and you’re given a warm send-off. In just three days, you’ve experienced a lifetime’s worth of Riviera highlights – from Cannes’ movie-star glamour and quiet island retreats, to the cultural tapestry of Nice and the pinnacle of luxury in Monaco. It’s the kind of journey only a yacht charter can provide, stitching together diverse experiences with the thread of personalized, first-class service throughout.
Conclusion – Plan Your Cannes Yacht Charter: This sample itinerary is merely a glimpse into what’s possible. With an entire coastline of treasures, you can extend your charter to five, seven, or ten days to include even more (like the rustic charm of St. Tropez to the west or the Italian Riviera just east of Monaco). Every charter with Boatcrowd is custom-crafted: our team will work closely with you to design the perfect route, choose the ideal yacht, and line up experiences that match your interests – be it winery tours in coastal Provence, scuba diving excursions, shopping trips, or elite events. Boatcrowd’s expertise in the Cannes and French Riviera region means we have the local connections and knowledge to secure the best anchorages, slip into the hottest restaurants, and introduce you to hidden gems that many travelers miss. Our modern fleet and seasoned crew ensure that your time onboard is as exceptional as your adventures on shore.
Ready to turn your Riviera dreams into reality? There’s never been a better time to indulge in a yacht charter Cannes experience. From the moment you step aboard to the final farewell from your captain, Boatcrowd is committed to delivering a journey beyond your expectations. Bask in the luxury of a private yacht, create lifelong memories with your loved ones, and explore the iconic French Riviera in the most exclusive way possible. Start planning with Boatcrowd today – reach out to our charter specialists to inquire now about your tailored Cannes yacht rental. Your bespoke yachting adventure is just a phone call or email away. Let us welcome you to the elegant world of Cannes yacht charters, where every sunset at sea is yours to savor. Bon voyage!
