French Riviera Yacht Charter Guide

Charter rates along the French Riviera vary significantly depending on the yacht’s type, size, age, number of guests, and onboard amenities. Weekly base rates for crewed motor yachts typically begin at around €30,000 and can exceed €350,000 for superyachts during the high season. Rates are quoted per week and do not include operational expenses or taxes.

High season rates generally apply from late June through August, coinciding with the Riviera’s peak tourism period. May, early June, and September are considered shoulder months, offering more favorable pricing, greater berth availability, and a more relaxed pace. Rates can also fluctuate based on yacht brand, year of build, and guest capacity.

In addition to the base fee, an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of 25–40% is required. This covers all trip-related costs such as fuel, food, beverages, berthing, and shoreside activities. The Captain manages the APA on the client’s behalf, with a detailed breakdown provided at the end of the charter. Any unused funds are refunded.

French VAT is charged on all charters embarking in the country. The standard rate is 20%, though partial exemptions may apply for itineraries that include time in international waters. Crew gratuity is not included in the base fee or APA but is customary. Tips typically range from 10–20% of the base charter rate and are offered at the guest’s discretion for exceptional service.

For tailored yacht recommendations, availability checks, and a complete cost breakdown, IYC’s expert consultants would be happy to assist you.

While weekly charters are the standard format in the French Riviera, especially for crewed motor yachts operating under MYBA agreements, itineraries can vary. Seven-day charters remain the most common format, with rates typically quoted on a per-week basis and routes structured accordingly. However, shorter or longer itineraries may be available, depending on the yacht, season, and scheduling. In these cases, pricing is often based on a pro-rata calculation using a six-day divisor to reflect fixed operational costs. All terms are agreed individually between the client and Central Agent.

Embarkation and disembarkation usually occur at 12:00 pm.. This midday window gives the crew adequate time to prepare the yacht and ensures smooth guest transitions at either end of the itinerary.

For tailored itinerary planning, yacht selection, and full cost transparency along the Côte d’Azur, IYC’s expert consultants would be happy to assist you.

The French Riviera’s Mediterranean climate is perfectly suited to yachting, with warm, dry summers and a reliable cruising window that extends from May through September. During the peak season, particularly in July and August, daytime temperatures range from 79°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C). The sea warms to between 75°F and 79°F (24°C to 26°C), ideal for swimming, watersports, and anchoring in sheltered coves.

Spring and early autumn bring a gentler rhythm. In May, June, and September, air temperatures range from 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C), and the Mediterranean remains comfortably warm, allowing for extended time in the water. These months are especially appealing for guests seeking a more relaxed atmosphere in ports like Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.

The Riviera’s coastal waters are generally calm throughout the summer. The Mistral, a strong northwesterly wind, can sometimes affect areas around Marseille and Toulon, but it is much less common farther east, especially beyond Saint-Tropez. Yacht captains monitor conditions closely and adjust routes accordingly to ensure smooth cruising.

Rainfall is rare between late spring and early autumn. The region enjoys long hours of sunshine throughout the season. In July, for example, sunsets often occur after 9:00 pm, offering extended time for alfresco dinners, sunset cruising, or a final swim before dusk.

France operates on a 230V / 50Hz electrical system and uses standard Type C and Type E plug sockets, the same configuration found throughout much of Europe. If you’re traveling from the U.S., U.K., Canada, or any country outside the EU, you’ll need a compatible plug adapter. A voltage converter is only necessary if your device does not support dual voltage; most phones, tablets, and laptops do.

On board a crewed charter yacht, power systems are designed to accommodate international guests. You’ll typically find universal plug sockets, USB charging stations, and onboard power inverters. While docked in the French Riviera’s well-equipped marinas yachts rely on stable shore power; at anchor, they switch to onboard generators to maintain full electrical service.

Bringing a universal travel adapter with surge protection is always a smart precaution. For guests with specialized electronics or medical equipment, we recommend confirming compatibility in advance. For yacht-specific configurations and onboard amenities, IYC’s expert consultants would be happy to assist you.

Mobile connectivity along the French Riviera is excellent, with consistent 4G and expanding 5G service covering the entire coastline—from Monaco and Nice to Saint-Tropez and beyond. Guests from EU and EEA countries benefit from free data roaming under the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” policy, allowing them to use their domestic plans in France at no extra cost. Travelers from outside the EU/EEA, including those from the U.S. or U.K., will find it easy to stay connected with prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs available through providers such as Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. These are widely sold at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and across the region.

Most charter yachts along the Côte d’Azur offer onboard Wi-Fi via cellular or satellite systems. Coverage is reliable in most marinas and bays, though signal may weaken in remote spots like Porquerolles or the Esterel coast. For uninterrupted access, it’s best to confirm your yacht’s connectivity setup in advance.

Recreational drones are allowed in France but subject to strict rules. Any drone over 800 grams must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority, and flights are prohibited near airports, urban areas, and restricted zones such as Monaco. In popular charter hubs like Cannes or Saint-Tropez, drone use may require prior approval.

At present, France offers a smooth, accessible, and well-regulated environment for international yacht charter guests arriving on the French Riviera. As a Schengen Area member, France allows passport-free travel for EU residents and streamlined entry for most other nationalities. U.S., U.K., and Canadian passport holders may enter without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, in accordance with Schengen regulations.

The euro is France’s official currency, simplifying provisioning and marina payments across charter hubs like Antibes, Saint-Tropez, and Monaco. English is widely spoken in these ports, where infrastructure caters to high-end tourism with modern marinas, international airport links, and premium concierge services.

There are currently no health-related travel restrictions in place. Standard vaccinations are recommended but not required, and hygiene practices across the hospitality and yachting sectors remain excellent.

For personalized guidance on entry logistics, local cruising conditions, and tailored French Riviera itineraries, IYC’s expert consultants would be happy to assist you.

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, uses the euro (€) as its official currency, in line with France’s adoption of the eurozone standard. Since 2002, all transactions in this Mediterranean yachting hub have been conducted in euros, simplifying financial logistics for charter guests arriving from other EU countries or traveling across multiple Mediterranean destinations.

For yacht charters along the French Riviera, all expenses including marina fees, provisioning, fuel, and concierge services are denominated in euros. Major credit cards are accepted throughout the region’s ports, from Monaco’s Port Hercule to Antibes’ Port Vauban and Cannes’ Vieux Port. Still, it is wise to carry some cash, particularly when dining in smaller coastal towns or visiting weekly village markets, where card payments may not always be possible.

ATMs are widely available in all major ports and towns along the Riviera, though guests venturing to more secluded anchorages should plan ahead for incidental spending.

The French Riviera offers a health-conscious and well-supported environment for yacht charters, with world-class medical care, streamlined emergency services, and high hygiene standards throughout. Ports such as Nice, Antibes, and Monaco are home to international clinics and multilingual specialists, while emergency support via the EU-wide 112 line ensures fast, English-speaking assistance when needed. Pharmacies are easy to find, often open late, and well stocked with both local and international medicines.

During the summer charter season (June to August), daytime temperatures typically reach 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). High UV levels make sun protection essential, especially on open decks or during long tender rides. Sea temperatures remain inviting from July into early autumn, averaging 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), making conditions ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports in sheltered anchorages such as the Îles de Lérins or Pampelonne Bay.

Onboard, chefs have access to exceptional provisioning sourced from local markets and luxury suppliers. This makes it easy to accommodate dietary requirements, food allergies, or wellness-focused preferences using fresh Mediterranean ingredients.

No special vaccinations are required to enter France. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the region. Hygiene standards across ports and marinas remain among the highest in Europe, with many charter yachts continuing cleaning protocols to support guest comfort.

A yacht charter from the French Riviera opens access to one of the most refined and flexible cruising corridors in the Mediterranean. Starting from Monaco, Nice, Cannes, or Antibes, guests can choose to head west along the Côte d’Azur toward Saint-Tropez and the Îles d’Hyères, or cruise east along the Ligurian Coast into Italy. The region offers an effortless mix of high-profile ports, tranquil anchorages, and secluded bays, all within short cruising range.

Within the Riviera itself, iconic stops like Saint-Tropez, Cap Ferrat, and Villefranche-sur-Mer are often paired with more relaxed settings such as the Lerins Islands, perfect for a quiet swim or watersports session. Cannes, with its upscale marinas and proximity to the film festival circuit, remains a popular overnight stop. To the west, the Porquerolles and Île de Port-Cros are known for their national park status and unspoiled coastlines, while the Calanques near Cassis offer dramatic limestone coves only accessible by boat.

Guests seeking a longer route can extend their itinerary into the Italian Riviera. From Menton, it’s a short hop to San Remo, then eastward to the pastel harbors of Portofino, Santa Margherita, and the Cinque Terre. These cross-border itineraries offer a compelling contrast—glamorous French ports balanced by Ligurian charm, local trattorias, and cliffside villages.

Cruising distances are short, allowing for flexible itineraries and daily changes of scenery. Whether you’re drawn to designer boutiques in Monte Carlo or sunset dining on Pampelonne Beach, the French Riviera offers a highly customizable experience. 

For tailored itineraries and current yacht availability, IYC’s expert consultants would be happy to assist you.

The French Riviera offers a broad range of charter yachts to suit every style of Mediterranean cruising. Motor yachts are the most popular choice, offering speed, sophistication, and comfort along the Côte d’Azur’s iconic coastline. From agile dayboats ideal for Saint-Tropez beach clubs to full-displacement superyachts built for extended cruising, the region supports a dynamic fleet that balances glamour with performance.

For a more traditional experience, sailing yachts provide a quieter, wind-powered way to explore the Riviera’s historic harbors and secluded anchorages. Though fewer in number, they appeal to guests seeking a deeper connection to the sea and a more leisurely cruising pace. Catamarans are also available in select ports, offering excellent stability, shallow drafts, and expansive outdoor areas, particularly well suited for families or groups seeking a relaxed, social layout.

Most yachts accommodate up to 12 guests, depending on their size, and are fully crewed, with services ranging from gourmet dining to watersports instruction.

The charter fee on the French Riviera includes the key elements of your yachting experience: private use of the yacht, a full-time professional crew, yacht insurance, and standard onboard equipment for navigation, entertainment, and guest use. However, operating costs are not included in the base charter rate.

Fuel, provisioning, marina berths, port fees, and special requests are covered via an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA). Typically set at 25–40% of the charter fee, the APA is paid prior to embarkation and managed by the Captain throughout the charter. At the end of the trip, a full accounting is provided and any remaining balance is refunded.

French VAT applies to all charters starting in France. The standard rate is 20%, though reductions may apply for itineraries that qualify as international cruises.

Crew gratuity is not included in the base fee or the APA. While discretionary, a tip of 10–20% of the base rate is customary for outstanding service.

IYC’s expert consultants provide a detailed, personalized cost breakdown ahead of booking to ensure all terms are clearly understood and tailored to your preferences.