Monaco Yacht Charter Guide
Welcome to Monaco, the home of luxury yachting. There are daily international flights into nearby Nice, and private helicopters available to transport you in style and comfort to your destination. Whether you arrive by yacht, helicopter or road, the journey into this luxurious city is spectacular; the Riviera coastline leading you to the picturesque, yacht-filled harbor.
Before stepping aboard your luxury charter yacht, take the time to discover a gem in one of the local boutiques, enjoy the views from the Yacht Club de Monaco or brush up on your nautical knowledge at the Oceanographic Museum. End the day by embracing the old school glamour of Monte Carlo at one of the region’s famous casinos.
Having sampled the city, it is time to travel to meet your private yacht and crew, ready to begin an unforgettable charter. The expert IYC team will carefully choose the perfect yacht for you and your party, so all you have to do is sit back and relax.
Best Time To Visit: Monaco is a wonderful place to visit all year long, but several high-profile events are a must-see. The Grand Prix of Formula One takes place each May, which attracts thousands of people to Monte Carlo. If you would like to tour the most impressive yachts in the world, make sure to visit in September during the annual Monaco Yacht Show.
Key Cruising Areas: Monaco and in the vicinity Cap d’Ail, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche-Sur-Mer, and Nice are all safe, calm cruising areas, with great anchorages, beaches, and coastal restaurants.
Don’t Miss: Visit The Prince Palace in the old town, take a stroll along Port Hercule to admire the yachts, and spend some time in the Exotic Gardens. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is a truly spectacular place to explore. A breathtaking building that is built on the side of Monaco’s legendary Rocher, the museum was founded by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco’s great-great-grandfather Prince Albert I.
Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Monaco has a range of fine dining opportunities. If you’re a keen sommelier, the Wine Palace Monte Carlo is a must for some of the finest wines in the world. It is also located by the Yacht Club de Monaco, so you can take in the beautiful yachts while enjoying your drink. The Grill at the Hotel de Paris is a lovely spot for dinner, as is Joël Robuchon at Metropole. For something a little different, Coya served delicious Peruvian cuisine.
Best Local Dish: You can expect fresh Meditteranean food in Monaco, with several high-end restaurants with an opulent selection of cuisine from some of the world’s finest chefs. For a truly local dish, try Stockfisch à la monégasque, and dessert fougasse.
Local Culture: Monaco has attracted an elite group of holiday-makers for decades. There are many activities and experiences to try in this unforgettable city. Dress up to the nines and catch a show at Opera Garnier Monte Carlo, try your luck at the infamous Monte Carlo Casinos.
Best Beach: If you wish to get a little sun before you embark on your journey, enjoy the warm weather at Larvotto Beach, which is closest to Monte Carlo.
IYC recommends: Once onboard your yacht, anchor off Villefranche, often called one of the five most beautiful bays in the world. Spend the day out on the water, trying out the yacht’s toys and exciting sports equipment under the watchful eye of the crew.
With its petite size, Monaco may be small, but it exudes beauty and extravagance on the French Riviera. The picturesque views and mild Mediterranean climate captivate visitors. The landscape is adorned with graceful palm trees, colorful flowers, exotic plants, and magnificent views of the crystal-clear sea. Monaco's reputation for opulence and wealth is evident in its upscale five-star hotels, high-end shops, luxurious yachts, and extravagant restaurants. For a perfect visit, consider including Monaco in your yacht charter itinerary and dedicate a day to exploring the top attractions and activities of this glamorous destination.
When you think of Monaco, you may immediately think of a glamorous side full of casinos, superyachts, and luxurious indulgence, but there is a family-friendly side. For those on vacation in this popular French Riviera destination with children in tow, there is plenty to keep them entertained. Here are our favourite activities to do with kids in Monaco:
Beyond the familiar glamour of Cannes and the chic bustle of St Tropez, the coastline offers plenty of beaches only accessible by yacht and offers the perfect respite from a busy French Riviera atmosphere. These secluded beaches provide a sense of privacy and natural beauty far from the crowds that head to the famous beach club spots. Whether situated beneath limestone cliffs or embraced by wild, fragrant herbs, here are our favorite beach spots and best-kept secrets on the French Riviera to access when on a luxury yacht charter:
Few places in Europe offer a landscape as strikingly varied as the French Riviera. The rugged coastal cliffs cascade down into the Mediterranean Sea, ancient pine forests give way to mimosa-covered hills, and high alpine meadows feel a world away from the sun-drenched beaches below. Whether you’re an avid hiker chasing panoramic views or a leisurely stroller in search of a scenic stroll, the French Riviera is a hotspot for exploring by two feet. For those arriving by yacht, many of these trails are easily accessible from the region’s marinas and ports, making them perfect for a morning stretch or afternoon escape between sailing days. Here are our eight favorite walks while exploring the French Riviera:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Monaco’s Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for yachting, with warm, sunny summers and a long, reliable cruising season. The principality enjoys around 300 days of sunshine each year, ensuring excellent conditions for both land-based activities and time at sea.
During the peak summer months of June through August, daytime highs average 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), while the sea warms to 24–26 °C (75–79 °F). These calm and dry conditions make summer the most popular time for anchoring in Monaco’s sheltered bays, enjoying watersports, or dining alfresco on deck late into the evening.
Spring and early autumn offer a slightly gentler pace. In May, June, and September, air temperatures range between 20–25 °C (68–77 °F), and the water remains inviting for swimming and snorkeling. These months are especially appealing for guests who prefer quieter marinas and lighter coastal traffic while still enjoying a comfortably warm atmosphere.
Winters in Monaco are mild compared to much of Europe. From December to February, highs hover around 12–14 °C (54–57 °F), and while the sea cools to 13–14 °C (55–58 °F), conditions remain pleasant for onshore exploration. Rainfall is more frequent at this time, yet snow is almost unheard of, and the Riviera lifestyle continues year-round with cultural events and fine dining.
Monaco uses the euro (€) as its official currency, in line with a long-standing agreement with the European Union. Since 2002, all transactions in the principality have been conducted in euros, streamlining financial arrangements for yacht charter guests traveling across the Mediterranean. Monaco also issues its own distinctive euro coins, which are accepted throughout the eurozone.
For yacht charters beginning in Monaco, expenses such as marina berths, provisioning, fuel, and concierge services are all denominated in euros. International credit cards are widely accepted in Port Hercule, Fontvieille Marina, and Monaco’s many luxury boutiques and restaurants. That said, it is advisable to carry some cash when visiting local markets or using taxis, where smaller payments may be easier settled in cash.
ATMs are readily available throughout Monaco, including in the Monte Carlo district and near the main marinas. Guests planning to cruise beyond the principality will also find the euro in use across neighboring France and Italy, ensuring seamless transactions throughout their itinerary.
Monaco operates on a 230V / 50Hz electrical system and uses Type C and Type E plug sockets, consistent with France and much of mainland Europe. Travelers arriving from the U.S., U.K., Canada, or other non-EU countries will need a suitable plug adapter. A voltage converter is only required if your devices are not dual-voltage, although most modern laptops, tablets, and phones already are.
On board a professionally crewed yacht, electrical systems are designed to meet the needs of international guests. Universal plug sockets, USB charging points, and inverters are widely available, ensuring convenience for day-to-day electronics. While berthed in Monaco’s well-equipped marinas, such as Port Hercule and Port de Fontvieille, yachts connect to reliable shore power. At anchor, onboard generators seamlessly provide full electrical service.
Carrying a universal adapter with surge protection remains a practical precaution, especially if you plan to use personal equipment during your time ashore. Guests traveling with medical devices or specialized electronics should confirm compatibility in advance for peace of mind. For details on yacht-specific systems and amenities, IYC’s expert consultants are on hand to advise.
Monaco offers excellent mobile connectivity, making it simple to stay connected throughout your yacht charter. The principality benefits from robust 4G coverage and expanding 5G service, supported by Monaco Telecom and French providers such as Orange and SFR. Guests traveling from EU or EEA countries enjoy free data roaming under the “Roam Like at Home” agreement, while non-EU visitors—including those from the U.S. or U.K.—can purchase prepaid SIM or eSIM packages at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport or in Monaco itself. Onboard, most charter yachts provide Wi-Fi through cellular or satellite systems, ensuring reliable access whether berthed in Port Hercule or cruising the surrounding Riviera. Signal may weaken slightly in remote anchorages, but connectivity is generally strong across this region.
Drone regulations in Monaco are particularly strict. Recreational flights are not permitted without explicit authorization from the civil aviation authority. Drones over 800g must be registered, and flights are banned near airports, populated areas, and within Monaco’s city limits unless advance permits are secured. This is especially relevant during high-profile events such as the Monaco Grand Prix or Yacht Show, where aerial restrictions are tightly enforced. Guests wishing to capture aerial footage of their charter are encouraged to coordinate with their captain and local agents, who can arrange compliant drone operations where permitted.
Monaco offers an exceptionally health-conscious and well-supported environment for yacht charter guests. The principality maintains world-class medical facilities, including the Princess Grace Hospital Center and several private clinics, all staffed by multilingual specialists. Emergency assistance is streamlined through the EU-wide 112 service, ensuring rapid, English-speaking response when required. Pharmacies are plentiful throughout Monaco, often open late, and carry both European and international medicines.
The summer charter season, typically from June to August, brings daytime temperatures of 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). Strong UV levels make sun protection essential when enjoying open decks or long tender rides. The Mediterranean waters around Monaco remain warm through early autumn, averaging 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), creating ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports in nearby anchorages such as Cap d’Ail or Cap Ferrat.
Onboard, charter chefs source fresh produce from Monaco’s Condamine Market and premium suppliers, making it easy to tailor menus for dietary needs, allergies, or wellness-focused preferences. Mediterranean cuisine emphasizes seasonal ingredients, aligning well with health-conscious lifestyles.
No special vaccinations are required for entry into Monaco. Tap water is safe to drink, and the principality upholds some of the highest hygiene and cleanliness standards in Europe. Many yachts continue enhanced cleaning practices as part of their guest service protocols, ensuring additional peace of mind.