Yacht Charters in France

Sailing the French Riviera and Corsica

The French Mediterranean coast offers two distinct experiences: the legendary glamour of the Côte d'Azur and the wild beauty of Corsica. Both share exceptional cuisine, azure waters, and the sophisticated French approach to the good life.

The Côte d'Azur

From Marseille to Monaco, the French Riviera has attracted artists, aristocrats, and adventurers for over a century. Saint-Tropez, once a quiet fishing village discovered by Brigitte Bardot, remains the epicenter of summer glamour. The port fills with superyachts in July and August, while the beaches of Pampelonne stretch endlessly.

Cannes, home of the film festival, offers the tranquil Lérins Islands just offshore – a peaceful anchorage minutes from the red carpet. Nice provides excellent provisioning and access to the dramatic Corniches roads. And Monaco, despite its small size, offers the ultimate in Mediterranean glamour.

Corsica: The Island of Beauty

Corsica, birthplace of Napoleon, offers the Mediterranean's most dramatic scenery. The west coast features the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve – volcanic red cliffs plunging into crystalline waters. The Gulf of Porto and Calanche de Piana showcase nature's architecture.

Bonifacio, perched on white limestone cliffs at Corsica's southern tip, provides a dramatic marina entrance through a narrow fjord. The town's citadel and the short sail to Sardinia make it a highlight of any Corsican charter.

The Calanques

East of Marseille, the Calanques (fjord-like inlets) offer stunning day-sailing and anchorages. These limestone cliffs and turquoise waters lie within a national park, providing wilderness sailing close to a major city.

Practical Matters

French waters are well-served by marinas, though costs are higher than elsewhere in the Mediterranean. The Mistral wind can bring challenging conditions, particularly in spring and fall – check forecasts carefully. August brings crowds and peak prices; June and September offer better value with excellent weather.