France Guide: Luxury Yacht Charter in the South of France

The French Riviera – the Côte d’Azur – has been the world’s most glamorous yachting playground for more than a century. Stretching roughly 115 kilometres from the red porphyry cliffs of the Estérel massif near Cannes to the Italian border beyond Monaco, this sun-drenched coastline packs an extraordinary concentration of wealth, beauty and maritime tradition into a compact cruising ground. On any given summer day, the waters between St Tropez and Cap Ferrat host one of the largest gatherings of superyachts on earth – more than 50 per cent of the global charter fleet repositions to the western Mediterranean each summer, and the Côte d’Azur is where many of them spend their season. For charter guests, that density translates into choice: from a 70-foot motor yacht for a long weekend out of Cannes to a 60-metre superyacht holding court in St Tropez’s Old Port during peak season, the French Riviera fleet is unmatched anywhere in the world.

What sets France apart from other Mediterranean charter destinations is the combination of short cruising distances and extraordinary variety. Cannes to St Tropez is roughly 24 nautical miles – under 90 minutes on a motor yacht at 18 knots. Cannes to Nice is 16 nautical miles, with the Îles de Lérins just 15 minutes offshore. Nice to Monaco is barely 8 nautical miles. That means a single charter week can include beach-club afternoons on Pampelonne, a superyacht berth in Cannes’ Vieux Port during the Film Festival, a sunset anchorage in Villefranche-sur-Mer’s deep natural bay, and a tender ride to a clifftop restaurant above Cap Ferrat – all without a passage longer than two hours. Add Corsica – roughly 100 nautical miles south of Nice, an overnight crossing or a six-hour daytime run – and you unlock a second, wilder France of UNESCO-protected sea reserves, granite calanques and anchorages where your yacht may be the only vessel in the bay.

Whether you’re planning a long weekend from Cannes, a week-long Riviera cruise, or a grand French Mediterranean voyage that includes Corsica’s untouched western coast, this guide covers every destination in detail – seasons, distances, signature experiences and the yachts best suited to each cruising ground. Start planning your France charter with Boatcrowd and let our team match you to the perfect yacht and itinerary.

Why Charter a Yacht in France

The Superyacht Capital of the World

No other stretch of coastline on earth attracts more superyachts than the Côte d’Azur. Antibes is home to Port Vauban, the largest marina in Europe with over 1,600 berths and capacity for yachts up to 165 metres. Cannes’ Vieux Port and Port Canto host the annual Cannes Yachting Festival each September – the world’s largest in-water boat show. St Tropez’s harbour transforms into a floating exhibition of the most beautiful motor yachts afloat every July and August. The infrastructure is peerless: world-class shipyards, technical services, provisioning networks and a crew culture that has been refined over generations. For charter guests, this means access to the finest and most diverse fleet in the Mediterranean, backed by a support ecosystem that ensures every detail is handled to the highest standard.

Compact Distances, Infinite Variety

The Riviera’s great gift to charter guests is that you never waste a day on passage. From the wild red cliffs of the Estérel (a volcanic massif whose crimson rock meets deep blue water in a palette unlike anywhere else on the coast) to the Belle Époque elegance of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, from the medieval perched villages of Èze and Roquebrune to the contemporary art scene of the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the diversity packed into 115 kilometres of coastline is remarkable. Your captain can show you a different world every day: glamorous harbours, sheltered calanques, island retreats and hilltop villages accessible by tender and a short taxi ride, all connected by passages of one to two hours on a motor yacht.

A Cultural Depth That Rewards Curiosity

The Côte d’Azur has attracted artists, writers and filmmakers since the late 19th century. Matisse, Picasso, Renoir, Chagall and Léger all lived and worked here – their studios, museums and legacy are woven into the coastal towns. The Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall sit in the hills above Nice. Picasso’s studio at Château Grimaldi in Antibes is now the Musée Picasso. The Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence houses one of Europe’s finest collections of 20th-century art in a building designed by Josep Lluís Sert, set among Giacometti sculptures and Miró mosaics in a hilltop garden. Beyond art, the region’s gastronomy is among Europe’s most celebrated: La Vague d’Or in St Tropez holds three Michelin stars, La Voile at La Réserve Ramatuelle has two, and the coast from Mougins to Menton is dotted with Michelin-starred tables that draw on Provençal, Italian and contemporary French traditions.

Corsica: France’s Wild Island

Just 100 nautical miles south of the Riviera, Corsica is a different France entirely. The island’s 300 nautical miles of coastline encompass the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve (accessible only by sea, home to ospreys, dolphins and more than 450 species of seaweed), the white limestone cliffs and hidden harbour of Bonifacio, the granite Lavezzi Islands with their crystal-clear snorkelling, and the red porphyry Calanques de Piana (also UNESCO-listed). Corsica’s marinas at Calvi, Ajaccio, Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio welcome superyachts, and the anchorages along the west coast – Girolata, Scandola, the Gulf of Porto – are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. A Corsica extension turns a Riviera charter into a genuine adventure.

Events That Define the Season

The French Riviera calendar is studded with globally significant events that pair naturally with a yacht charter. The Cannes Film Festival (mid-May) transforms the city into the red-carpet capital of the world, with superyachts lining the Coisette serving as VIP accommodation and entertainment venues. The Monaco Grand Prix (late May) brings Formula 1 to the world’s most famous street circuit, watched from yacht decks anchored in Port Hercule. Les Voiles de St Tropez (late September) draws the finest classic and racing yachts to the Gulf of St Tropez. And the Cannes Yachting Festival (September) fills the Vieux Port and Port Canto with the latest superyacht launches and brokerage yachts. Timing your charter around one of these events adds an unforgettable layer to the experience.

Top Destinations in France

• St Tropez – The legendary Provençal fishing village turned global symbol of Riviera glamour. Pampelonne’s five-kilometre beach with its iconic beach clubs (Club 55, Nikki Beach, Bagatelle), the Old Port lined with superyachts and pavement cafés, and La Vague d’Or’s three Michelin stars at Cheval Blanc. The Gulf of St Tropez offers sheltered anchorages and the village retains its Provençal charm away from the waterfront. The most popular summer destination for superyacht charters in the Mediterranean.

• Cannes – Elegant, cosmopolitan and film-famous. The Boulevard de la Croisette, the Vieux Port with its superyacht quay, the Îles de Lérins just 15 minutes offshore (the monastery on Île Saint-Honorat has produced wine and liqueur since the fifth century, and the Fort Royal on Île Sainte-Marguerite once held the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask). Four marinas, a Michelin-studded dining scene, and the base for some of the Riviera’s best day-charter routes.

• Nice – The Riviera’s cultural capital and largest city, with a beautifully restored Old Town (Vieux Nice), the Promenade des Anglais, three major art museums, and a food scene rooted in Niçois traditions – socca, pissaladière, salade niçoise. Nice’s port sits below the Colline du Château with views across the Baie des Anges. From here, Villefranche-sur-Mer (4 NM), Cap Ferrat (6 NM) and Monaco (8 NM) are all within easy reach, making Nice a superb base for exploring the eastern Riviera.

• Corsica – France’s island of dramatic contrasts: the UNESCO-protected Scandola Reserve and Calanques de Piana on the west coast, the spectacular clifftop citadel of Bonifacio in the south, the granite Lavezzi Islands with their crystal-clear waters, and the gentler bays around Calvi and Porto Vecchio in the north and east. Corsica’s 300-nautical-mile coastline rewards extended exploration and pairs naturally with a Riviera charter or a crossing to Sardinia (Bonifacio to La Maddalena is just 7 nautical miles).

• Monaco – The sovereign principality squeezed into 2.02 square kilometres of Mediterranean coastline. Port Hercule hosts the Monaco Grand Prix in May and the Monaco Yacht Show in September. The Casino de Monte-Carlo, the Océanographic Museum, and some of the world’s most exclusive restaurants (Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, three Michelin stars) make Monaco a natural evening stop on any eastern Riviera itinerary.

• Antibes and Juan-les-Pins – Home to Port Vauban, the largest marina in Europe (over 1,600 berths, yachts up to 165 metres). The Musée Picasso inside the medieval Château Grimaldi, the charming Provençal market in the old town, and the buzzing nightlife of Juan-les-Pins. Cap d’Antibes’ southern tip offers sheltered anchorages with views across to the Îles de Lérins.

Best Time to Charter a Yacht in France

Peak Season: July and August

The height of summer on the Côte d’Azur brings daytime temperatures of 28–32°C (82–90°F), sea temperatures of 23–26°C (73–79°F), and the liveliest atmosphere ashore. Beach clubs are in full swing, restaurants and nightlife run until the early hours, and the harbours of St Tropez, Cannes and Monaco are at their most spectacular. This is also the most expensive and busiest period – the most sought-after charter yachts book out by February, and premium berths in St Tropez and Monaco require early planning. If July or August is your window, book well in advance and lean on your Boatcrowd charter specialist to secure the best berths and timing.

Shoulder Season: May–June and September–October

For many experienced charter guests, the shoulder months are the true sweet spot. May and June bring warm days of 22–28°C (72–82°F), long evenings, and noticeably fewer boats at popular anchorages. The Cannes Film Festival (mid-May) and Monaco Grand Prix (late May) add glamour without the full peak-season crowds. September is golden: the sea retains its summer warmth at 22–25°C, the light is softer, restaurants are still fully open, and charter rates are typically 15–25% below July–August. Les Voiles de St Tropez in late September and the Cannes Yachting Festival add world-class events. October stays mild and pleasant for coastal cruising, gastronomy and cultural exploration.

Early and Late Season: April and November

April marks the start of the Mediterranean season. Daytime temperatures hover around 16–21°C (61–70°F), pleasant for on-deck dining and exploring the hilltop villages, though the sea is still cool for extended swimming. Yachts are repositioning into the western Mediterranean from winter programmes, and early bookers can secure attractive rates. November offers mild days, empty harbours, and soft pricing before yachts head to the Caribbean. Both months suit guests who prioritise culture, gastronomy and uncrowded harbours over beach time.

Signature Experiences

• Pampelonne Beach by Yacht – Anchor off St Tropez’s legendary five-kilometre beach and tender ashore to Club 55, Nikki Beach or Bagatelle for a long, sun-soaked afternoon of Provençal rosé, Mediterranean sharing plates and barefoot glamour. Your yacht rides at anchor just offshore, visible from your sunbed.
• Sunset in Villefranche-sur-Mer – Drop anchor in one of the deepest natural bays on the Riviera, framed by pastel-coloured houses cascading down to the waterfront. The bay is so sheltered it feels like a private lagoon. Watch the sunset paint the hillside in shades of gold and rose as your crew serves dinner on the aft deck with the lights of the old town flickering to life above.
• Îles de Lérins from Cannes – Cruise 15 minutes from Cannes’ Vieux Port to this pair of pine-covered islands. On Île Sainte-Marguerite, visit the Fort Royal and the cell where the Man in the Iron Mask was held for 11 years. On Île Saint-Honorat, monks have lived continuously since AD 410 – taste their wines and Lérina liqueur in the abbey shop. Anchor between the islands for a swim in crystal water with Cannes’ skyline as your backdrop.
• Monaco Grand Prix from the Water – Secure a berth or anchorage in Port Hercule and watch Formula 1 cars scream through the tunnel and around the harbour at close range. The atmosphere from a yacht deck is electrifying – paddock access, hospitality tents and rooftop parties within tender reach. Your crew handles all logistics and VIP arrangements.
• Scandola Nature Reserve, Corsica – Cruise along the UNESCO-listed west coast of Corsica, where red volcanic cliffs drop into transparent water and ospreys circle overhead. The reserve is accessible only by sea, and anchoring is prohibited in the integral protection zone – your captain positions the yacht at the edge while you explore by tender. The marine life here is extraordinary: grouper, barracuda, dolphins and the occasional monk seal.
• Clifftop Dinner above Cap Ferrat – Tender ashore from your anchorage and take a short taxi up to Èze Village, a medieval hilltop settlement perched 410 metres above the sea. Dinner at Chèvre d’Or or La Chèvre d’Or’s terrace restaurant, with panoramic views stretching from Cap Ferrat to Cap d’Ail, is one of the most romantic evenings on the Riviera.
• Bonifacio by Superyacht – Enter the narrow, fjord-like harbour of Bonifacio beneath towering white limestone cliffs, with the medieval citadel seemingly hanging over the edge above you. Explore the Genoese old town, walk the ramparts, then cruise to the Lavezzi Islands for an afternoon of snorkelling over granite boulders in water so clear it barely looks real.
• Provençal Market in Old Antibes – Your chef goes ashore early to the daily Cours Massena market in Antibes’ old town – the freshest fish, local cheeses, olive oils and seasonal produce in Provence. Breakfast is served on the aft deck while your provisions come aboard, and your lunch will feature ingredients sourced metres from the harbour.

Yacht Types Available

• Motor Yachts (55’–99’) – The most versatile choice for Riviera charters. These crewed vessels typically accommodate 6–10 guests in 3–4 en-suite cabins, with a crew of 3–5 (captain, chef, steward/ess and deckhand). Cruising speeds of 18–28 knots make it easy to cover the coast from St Tropez to Monaco in a single day. Modern flybridge motor yachts carry a full complement of water toys (jet ski, seabobs, paddleboards, snorkelling gear) and offer flexible itineraries along the Riviera and to Corsica. Most operate all-inclusive or with a modest Advance Provisioning Allowance. Weekly rates typically start from around $45,000–$75,000 depending on season, yacht and inclusions.

• Superyachts (100’+) – The French Riviera is the global epicentre of superyacht chartering. For larger groups or those seeking the ultimate in space, privacy and prestige, Riviera superyachts deliver a floating five-star experience. Accommodation for 8–12 guests in lavish staterooms, crews of 8–20+, expansive deck areas (jacuzzis, outdoor cinemas, beach clubs, helipads on the largest vessels), and a full arsenal of water toys. Superyacht charters in France typically run on MYBA terms (base rate plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance of 25–35% to cover fuel, food, beverages and berthing; French VAT of 20% applies). Weekly rates for 100’–130’ superyachts start from roughly $100,000–$200,000; the largest mega yachts command $350,000+ per week. Crew gratuity is customarily 10–15% of the charter fee.

• Luxury Catamarans (55’+) – Premium power catamarans from builders like Sunreef and Lagoon in the 55’–80’ range offer exceptional stability, generous deck space and a shallow draft ideal for nosing into the Riviera’s tightest calanques and the crystal shallows of Corsica’s anchorages. Catamarans in this range typically sleep 6–10 guests and carry a crew of 3–4. Their twin-hull design virtually eliminates rolling, making them the most comfortable option for guests prone to seasickness and for families with young children. A Sunreef 60 starts from approximately $35,000–$50,000 per week depending on season, rising for larger or newer models.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a yacht charter in France cost?

Charter pricing on the French Riviera depends on yacht size, type, season and inclusions. As a broad guide, crewed motor yachts in the 55’–99’ range start from around $40,000–$65,000 per week during peak season (July–August), often on an all-inclusive basis. Superyachts (100’–130’) typically start from $100,000–$200,000 per week on MYBA terms – the base rate plus an Advance Provisioning Allowance (usually 25–35%) covering fuel, food, beverages and berthing, plus 20% French VAT. The largest mega yachts can reach $350,000–$1,000,000+ per week. Luxury catamarans (55’–80’) start from roughly $35,000–$55,000 per week. Shoulder-season rates (May–June, September–October) are typically 15–25% lower. Crew gratuity is customarily 10–15%. Enquire with Boatcrowd for a personalised quote based on your dates, group size and preferences.

Are luxury catamarans available for charter in France?

Yes. Boatcrowd’s French Riviera fleet includes a growing selection of premium power catamarans from builders like Sunreef and Lagoon in the 55’–80’ range. These vessels are particularly well suited to the Riviera thanks to their shallow draft (allowing access to tight calanques and sandy shallows), exceptional stability, and generous living space. Most luxury catamarans come fully crewed with a captain, chef and steward/ess, and operate on an all-inclusive basis. They are especially popular with families and multi-generational groups who appreciate the wide beam, the absence of rolling, and the easy swim-platform access. For a Corsica extension, catamarans are ideal – their draft allows you to anchor closer to shore in the island’s shallow, protected bays.

Can I charter a yacht in France for a film or TV production?

The French Riviera has been a favourite filming location for decades. Cannes hosts the world’s most prestigious film festival, and the coast has provided backdrops for Bond films (GoldenEye and Never Say Never Again featured Riviera locations), The Transporter series (filmed extensively in Nice, Cannes and along the coast), Emily in Paris (Season 2 included Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat), and countless fashion and luxury brand campaigns shot against Riviera scenery. Boatcrowd can arrange production-friendly charters with yachts that accommodate camera crews, lighting rigs and talent. Our team coordinates with local port authorities for filming permits, drone permissions and logistical support. With 300-plus sunny days a year and long summer daylight, the Côte d’Azur is a production team’s dream.

Is France a good destination for a proposal, honeymoon or milestone birthday?

The French Riviera is one of the most romantic destinations on earth, and a crewed yacht takes celebrations to another level entirely. Your crew can orchestrate every detail – from a sunset proposal anchored off Villefranche-sur-Mer (champagne and a photographer arriving by tender) to a honeymoon itinerary with couples’ massages on deck, private beach dinners and rose-petal turndowns in your master stateroom. Milestone birthdays and anniversaries are equally well catered for: a beach-club afternoon at Nikki Beach in St Tropez for a 40th, a Michelin tasting menu at La Vague d’Or for a golden wedding, a sunset cruise along the Estérel coast for a 50th. Let Boatcrowd know the occasion when you enquire and we’ll ensure every moment is unforgettable.

Can I bring the whole family, including grandparents and young children?

Multi-generational family charters are one of the most popular booking types on the French Riviera. Yachts and catamarans are available in configurations that sleep 8–12+ guests, with flexible cabin layouts to suit grandparents, parents and children. Crews are experienced with guests of all ages: children get age-appropriate snorkelling instruction, beach treasure hunts and kid-friendly menus, while grandparents appreciate calm anchorages, comfortable sun lounges and attentive service. The sheltered bays around the Îles de Lérins, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Corsica’s eastern coast are among the safest and most family-friendly cruising grounds on the Riviera. Catamarans are especially popular for families – the stability, wide beam and easy swim-platform access make life aboard relaxed for every generation.

Can I combine the French Riviera with Corsica or Italy on one charter?

Absolutely, and it’s one of the great advantages of chartering from the Côte d’Azur. A popular one-week route starts in Cannes or Nice, cruises the Riviera for three or four days, then crosses to Corsica (roughly 100 NM from Nice to Calvi, 6–7 hours on a motor yacht) for the second half. On a 10-day or two-week charter, you could combine the Riviera with both Corsica and Sardinia – Bonifacio to La Maddalena in northern Sardinia is just 7 nautical miles. Alternatively, cruise east from Monaco along the Italian Riviera to Portofino (roughly 85 NM) for a Franco-Italian itinerary. Your Boatcrowd charter specialist will design a multi-destination route that maximises variety without wasting time on long crossings.