While many perceive a holiday on the French Riviera as expensive, with careful planning, it doesn't have to be. Staying in marinas outside the main hubs offers prices that are very competitive with other destinations considered more budget-friendly.
Yes, this is the South of France, and prices can reflect the luxury tastes of the rich and famous who frequent the area. However, with some foresight and good advice, the value of a boating holiday on the Côte d'Azur—along with the fun and excitement it offers—might just surprise you.
We had a Lagoon 52 for our sail out of Grimaud, France. Enjoyed the French Riviera, it was a 10. Went to St. Tropez, Cannes, Monaco, Antibes and took side trips inland to Eze and St Paul de Vence to name a couple.
Dave, USA, September 2018
Beyond the blue waters, sandy beaches, and sunshine, a defining feature of France's Mediterranean coast is its collection of charming villages with seaside frontages, carefully preserved as modern development has unfolded alongside them. While a hotel stay here can be pricey, holidaying aboard a boat offers the best of both worlds. With easy access to the onshore delights by day, you can retreat to your own cost-effective floating hotel by night. In fact, as you drop anchor or tie up along this coastline, you become part of the picturesque vista that hotel guests admire. Relax on board, look back at them, and smile.
Whether aboard a sailing or motorboat charter, your time typically involves short coastal passages between the many must-see attractions. If your schedule allows, make sure to factor in ample shore time, as some places will be hard to leave. The most popular stretch for bareboat charters runs 90 nautical miles from Toulon to Monaco, but the adventure doesn't stop there. Head east to the Italian Riviera, or west to Marseilles and the Camargue.
The Côte d'Azur offers a delightful blend of all life's pleasures, with sailing itself being one of the most invigorating. Take time during your passages to recharge your senses, between the stimulating experiences ashore.
We have a wide range of high-quality boats available in bases at Port Pin Roland (Toulon), St Raphael and Golfe Juan (both near Cannes).
Read about our own experiences sailing the South of France in 2018.
Rating: 5 / 5We had a Lagoon 52 for our sail out of Grimaud, France. The boat met our needs and expectations and was in excellent condition. Not a great sailing vessel but very comfortable and enjoyed by our non-sailing wives. The charter company was good. Our skipper and hostess were fantastic and highly recommend for sailing in the area. Very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Enjoyed the French Riviera, it was a 10. Went to St. Tropez, Cannes, Monaco, Antibes and took side trips inland to Eze and St Paul de Vence to name a couple.
Your service was excellent and everything was terrific. Thanks for all your help in insuring a memorable vacation. Dave, USA, Sep 23rd, 2018
A sailing charter in the South of France suggests a cruise among the super yachts along the Côte d'Azur, the glitz and glamour of the Riviera. There's more to the French Mediterranean coast; westward lies another charter experience, where the coastline is dotted with seaside towns and quiet bays.
On the Côte d'Azure, a convenient coastal sailboat holiday itinerary is easy to put together. The sailing is great and the costs may be lower than you think. You are in the South of France: 'c'est magnifique'
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