Western Mediterranean Classic
- Duration
- 7 Days
- Embarkation
- Monaco (Port Hercule)
- Disembarkation
- Saint-Tropez (Vieux Port)
- Best season
- May – October
- Total distance
- 175 NM
Overview
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is the undisputed queen of the Mediterranean, a legendary coastline that has captivated artists, celebrities, and discerning travelers for centuries. From the glamour of Monaco to the sun-drenched beaches of Saint-Tropez, this is a destination that defines luxury, sophistication, and the art of living well. A yacht charter is the ultimate way to experience the French Riviera, offering unparalleled freedom, privacy, and access to the region's most exclusive hotspots.
Why the French Riviera for a Yacht Charter?
The French Riviera is a yachting paradise for a multitude of reasons. The coastline is a stunning tapestry of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches, all lapped by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The region is dotted with world-class marinas, charming fishing villages, and glamorous cities, each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and entertainment. The short cruising distances between destinations allow for a relaxed and varied itinerary, with plenty of time to enjoy the yacht's amenities and explore ashore.
Best Time to Visit
The charter season on the French Riviera runs from May to September, with the peak months being July and August. During this time, the weather is hot and sunny, the sea is warm, and the social scene is in full swing. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the shoulder months of May, June, and September offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Weather and Sailing Conditions
The French Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. The prevailing winds are generally light, making for calm and comfortable cruising conditions. The Mistral wind can occasionally blow from the north, but it is usually short-lived.
Local Cuisine and Gastronomy
The French Riviera is a culinary paradise, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. From the bustling food markets of Antibes to the Michelin-starred restaurants of Monaco, there is something to tempt every palate. Indulge in fresh seafood, Provençal vegetables, and the region's famous rosé wine. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at some of the world's most celebrated restaurants, such as Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse in Monaco or La Vague d'Or in Saint-Tropez.
Nightlife and Entertainment
The French Riviera is renowned for its glamorous nightlife, with a plethora of chic bars, exclusive beach clubs, and world-famous nightclubs. From the legendary Jimmy'z in Monaco to the iconic Les Caves du Roy in Saint-Tropez, there is no shortage of places to see and be seen. For a more relaxed evening, enjoy a cocktail at a waterfront café or a sunset drink on the sundeck of your yacht.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the French Riviera offers a rich cultural heritage. Explore the medieval villages of Èze and Saint-Paul de Vence, visit the Picasso Museum in Antibes, or walk in the footsteps of the stars at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. The region has inspired countless artists over the centuries, and its artistic legacy can be seen in the numerous museums and galleries.
Key Ports and Marinas
- Port Hercule, Monaco: One of the most prestigious marinas in the world, located in the heart of Monaco.
- Port Vauban, Antibes: The largest yachting harbor in the Mediterranean, with a mix of superyachts and traditional fishing boats.
- Port de Cannes: A glamorous marina located at the foot of the Palais des Festivals.
- Vieux Port, Saint-Tropez: A picturesque harbor lined with chic cafés and restaurants.
Highlights
- Monaco - The Jewel of the Mediterranean
- Monaco to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - A Haven of Tranquility
- Èze & Villefranche-sur-Mer - Medieval Charm and Postcard ...
- Antibes - Picasso's Playground
- Cannes - The Star of the Riviera
- Saint-Tropez - The Playground of the Rich and Famous
Day by day
Day 1: Monaco - The Jewel of the Mediterranean
Monaco - The Jewel of the Mediterranean
Morning: Morning: Arrive at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) and be greeted by your private chauffeur for a seamless transfer to Port Hercule in Monaco. Step aboard your magnificent charter yacht, where the crew awaits with a refreshing glass of champagne and a warm welcome. Settle into your luxurious stateroom and familiarize yourself with the yacht's exceptional amenities. Afternoon: Enjoy a delectable lunch on the aft deck, prepared by your private chef, as you take in the breathtaking views of Monaco's iconic harbor.
Afternoon: Following lunch, take a tender ashore to explore the opulent Monte Carlo Casino, an architectural masterpiece. Try your luck at the tables or simply marvel at the Belle Époque design. Afterwards, indulge in some retail therapy at the exclusive boutiques of the Carré d'Or. Evening: As the sun sets, enjoy cocktails on the sundeck before heading to the world-renowned Hôtel de Paris for a pre-dinner drink at Le Bar Américain. For dinner, experience the culinary artistry of Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an unforgettable dining experience.
Evening: After dinner, you may wish to experience Monaco's vibrant nightlife at Jimmy'z Monte-Carlo. Highlights: Port Hercule Monte Carlo Casino Carré d'Or shopping Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse Photo Description: A panoramic shot of Port Hercule from the sundeck of the yacht, with the Prince's Palace of Monaco and the Monaco Cathedral in the background. The sun should be setting, casting a golden glow over the city..
- Dining: Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an unforgettable dining experience. After dinner, you may wish to experience Monaco's vibrant nightlife at Jimmy'z Monte-Carlo.
Day 2: Monaco to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - A Haven of Tranquility
Monaco to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - A Haven of Tranquility · 8 nm
Morning: Morning: Wake up to a delicious breakfast served on the aft deck as the yacht cruises from Monaco to the exclusive peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Anchor in the beautiful bay of Plage de la Paloma. Spend the morning enjoying the yacht's water toys, from jet skis to paddleboards, in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Afternoon: After a delightful lunch on board, take the tender ashore to visit the magnificent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning seaside palace with nine beautiful gardens.
Afternoon: Explore the villa's exquisite art collection and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Later, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal path, the Sentier du Littoral. Evening: Enjoy a sunset cocktail at the iconic Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, followed by an exquisite dinner at their Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Cap. The restaurant's terrace offers stunning views of the sea. Highlights: Plage de la Paloma Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Photo Description: A shot of the yacht anchored in the bay of Plage de la Paloma, with the lush greenery of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in the background.
Evening: The water should be a vibrant turquoise, and guests should be visible enjoying water sports..
Day 3: Èze & Villefranche-sur-Mer - Medieval Charm and Postcard ...
Èze & Villefranche-sur-Mer - Medieval Charm and Postcard ... · 22 nm
Morning: Morning: After breakfast, the yacht will cruise to the picturesque bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. From here, take a tender ashore and a private car to the medieval village of Èze, perched on a clifftop with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Afternoon: Explore the narrow, winding streets, browse the artisan shops, and visit the Jardin Exotique d'Èze for its stunning collection of cacti and succulents. Afternoon: Return to the yacht for lunch and then spend the afternoon exploring the charming old town of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Discover the colorful waterfront buildings, the 16th-century citadel, and the Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated by Jean Cocteau. Evening: For dinner, experience the authentic Provençal cuisine at La Mère Germaine, a legendary restaurant on the waterfront of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Evening: Enjoy the fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere. Highlights: Èze Village & Jardin Exotique Villefranche-sur-Mer Old Town Chapelle Saint-Pierre La Mère Germaine Photo Description: A photo of the yacht anchored in the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, with the colorful buildings of the old town cascading down the hillside in the background. The photo should capture the quintessential charm of the French Riviera..
Day 4: Antibes - Picasso's Playground
Antibes - Picasso's Playground · 30 nm
Morning: Morning: Cruise to the historic town of Antibes, home to the largest yachting harbor in the Mediterranean, Port Vauban. After breakfast, explore the charming old town with its narrow cobblestone streets, bustling Provençal market, and the impressive Fort Carré. Afternoon: Visit the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso lived and worked in 1946.
Afternoon: Admire the impressive collection of his paintings, drawings, and ceramics. Afterwards, take a walk along the Cap d'Antibes and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline. Evening: Enjoy cocktails on the sundeck before heading to the legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc for dinner at their glamorous restaurant.
Evening: This is the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking up the exclusive atmosphere of the French Riviera. Highlights: Port Vauban Antibes Old Town & Provençal Market Musée Picasso Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc Photo Description: A shot of the impressive superyachts in Port Vauban, with the historic Fort Carré in the background. The photo should convey the scale and luxury of the yachting scene in Antibes..
Day 5: Cannes - The Star of the Riviera
Cannes - The Star of the Riviera · 85 nm
Morning: Morning: Cruise to the glamorous city of Cannes, famous for its international film festival. Anchor in the bay and take a tender to the Iles de Lérins, a group of four Mediterranean islands. Explore the largest island, Île Sainte-Marguerite, and visit the fort where the “Man in the Iron Mask” was held captive. Afternoon: Return to Cannes for lunch at a chic beachfront restaurant on the Boulevard de la Croisette.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon shopping at the designer boutiques, or simply relax on the sandy beach. Evening: Walk the red-carpet steps of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the Cannes Film Festival. For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at La Palme d'Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hôtel Martinez.
Evening: Highlights: Iles de Lérins Boulevard de la Croisette Palais des Festivals et des Congrès La Palme d'Or Photo Description: A glamorous shot of the Boulevard de la Croisette at sunset, with the iconic hotels and designer boutiques lining the street. A classic convertible car could be driving by to add to the atmosphere..
Day 6: Saint-Tropez - The Playground of the Rich and Famous
Saint-Tropez - The Playground of the Rich and Famous · 15 nm
Morning: Morning: An early morning cruise will bring you to the legendary village of Saint-Tropez. Anchor off the famous Pampelonne Beach and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the turquoise waters, and enjoying the vibrant beach club scene.
Afternoon: Afternoon: Head ashore for lunch at the iconic Club 55, a favorite of celebrities and jet-setters. After lunch, explore the charming old town of Saint-Tropez, with its narrow streets, art galleries, and the picturesque Vieux Port. Evening: Enjoy a final sunset cocktail on the yacht before heading to the exclusive Les Caves du Roy nightclub for a night of dancing.
Evening: For a more relaxed evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at La Vague d'Or, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Cheval Blanc St-Tropez. Highlights: Pampelonne Beach Club 55 Saint-Tropez Old Town & Vieux Port Les Caves du Roy or La Vague d'Or Photo Description: A vibrant shot of Pampelonne Beach from the water, showing the colorful umbrellas of the beach clubs and the superyachts anchored in the bay. The photo should capture the energy and excitement of Saint-Tropez..
Day 7: Departure from Saint-Tropez
Departure from Saint-Tropez · 110 nm
Morning: Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast on board, taking in the last views of the stunning French Riviera.
Afternoon: Your private chauffeur will then transfer you to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) for your departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your luxury yacht charter.
Evening: .
Couples · Foodies · Culture Lovers · First-Time Charterers
Yachts cruising on the French Riviera
- ETERNAL SPARK — 50 m · Bilgin · 12 guests · Home port: France | Antibes · Weekly charter rate from €337,590/week
- VICKY — 59 m · Baglietto · 12 guests · Home port: France | Cannes · Weekly charter rate from €250,000/week
- OKTO — 68 m · ISA Yachts · 12 guests · Home port: France | Port de Saint-Tropez · Weekly charter rate from €240,000/week
- MOKA — 42 m · Sanlorenzo · 10 guests · Home port: Mallorca | Port Adriano · Weekly charter rate from €191,583/week
- MAYVA — 48 m · Baglietto · 12 guests · Home port: Monaco | Port Hercules · Weekly charter rate from €161,400/week
- THUMPER — 40 m · Sunseeker · 12 guests · Home port: Mallorca | Marina Palma Cuarentena · Weekly charter rate from €157,500/week
- YCM FIFTY — 50 m · Custom · 22 guests · Home port: Mallorca | Marina Port de Mallorca · Weekly charter rate from €141,167/week
- LUISA — 48 m · Heesen · 12 guests · Home port: France | Cannes · Weekly charter rate from €125,000/week
- HIGHLANDER — 50 m · Feadship · 12 guests · Home port: Bahamas | Nassau · Weekly charter rate from €125,000/week
- JOSEPHINE I — 36 m · Mulder · 12 guests · Home port: France | Cannes · Weekly charter rate from €116,667/week
- IRAMA — 42 m · Marine Concepts · 12 guests · Home port: France | Antibes · Weekly charter rate from €112,500/week
- GHOST III — 49 m · Custom · 12 guests · Home port: Mallorca | Palma Bay, Club de Mar · Weekly charter rate from €110,000/week