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Monaco & French Riviera Super Yacht Charter - The Most Luxurious Vacation

  • Feb 2, 2025
  • 6 min read

Updated: Jan 30

Monaco and yachts are like synonyms. Dining in, watching Formula 1 from the deck of your yacht, cruising to Cap d’Ail for a sunset dinner — this is the Riviera dream, wrapped in elegance and exclusivity. From glamorous ports to hidden anchorages, a superyacht charter here is not just a holiday — it’s an experience of living art, tailored entirely to your desires.


Aerial view of a marina in Nice with a large white yacht docked, surrounded by smaller boats. Colorful buildings with red roofs line the waterfront.
Nice harbor from the top of the hill.

ABOUT: The French Riviera in our minds stands for luxury, glamour, and elegance. From the sparkling Mediterranean waters to the glitzy harbors of Monaco and Cannes, a super yacht charter in this iconic destination offers more than just an experience. Whether you're drawn to the famous Cannes Film Festival, the high-speed excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix, or the exclusive beaches of Saint-Tropez, there's no better way to experience it all than from the deck of a luxury yacht.


ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY DURING YOUR SUPER YACHT CHARTER IN COTE D'AZUR

  • Cruise along the stunning French Riviera coastline.

  • Visit Monaco and watch the Monaco Grand Prix from the water (if during race season).

  • Explore Saint-Tropez and enjoy its chic boutiques and lively nightlife.

  • Discover the Lérins Islands just off Cannes, perfect for a quiet day away from the crowds.

  • Spend time in Villefranche-sur-Mer, one of the most picturesque towns on the Riviera.

  • Explore the antique markets in Antibes or visit the Picasso Museum.

  • Take part in water sports like jet-skiing, water-skiing, and wakeboarding.

  • Enjoy a private beach day in secluded bays.

  • Dine on gourmet French cuisine prepared by your private chef on board.

  • Host an elegant dinner party with French wine pairings on your yacht.


WHEN IT IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK A SUPER YACHT CHARTER IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE:

  • High season (July & August): these months are peak time, when the Riviera is buzzing with activity, especially during prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival (May) and the Monaco Grand Prix (May). It’s best to book 9-12 months in advance to secure your desired yacht.

  • Shoulder season (June & September): enjoy the region’s beautiful weather, but with fewer crowds and more availability. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, these months are ideal.



SAMPLE ITINERARIES TO ENJOY WHEN IN FRENCH RIVIERA:

Monaco to Saint-Tropez itinerary

Day 1: Monaco – Begin your journey with a chic evening in the glamorous Port Hercules.

Day 2: Cap d’Ail – Drop anchor by the secluded coves for a swim and scenic lunch.

Day 3: Villefranche-sur-Mer – Explore this charming bay with pastel-colored houses and local flair.

Day 4: Cannes – Walk the Croisette, dine at beach clubs, and enjoy a stylish night onboard.

Day 5: Lérins Islands – Visit Île Sainte-Marguerite for forested trails and underwater snorkeling spots.

Day 6: Pampelonne Beach, St. Tropez – Spend the day in the iconic beach clubs of Ramatuelle.

Day 7: Saint-Tropez Port – Finish in this legendary village with boutiques, seafood, and vibrant nightlife.


Cannes to Menton itinerary Day 1: Cannes – Embark in the heart of the Riviera, with sunset cocktails on deck.

Day 2: Île Saint-Honorat – Drop anchor for a serene morning near the monastery and vineyards.

Day 3: Antibes – Stroll the old town and visit the Picasso Museum before dinner in port.

Day 4: Villefranche-sur-Mer – One of the most picturesque bays on the Riviera for swimming and exploring.

Day 5: Eze-sur-Mer & Cap Ferrat – Hike up to Eze or relax in the gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

Day 6: Monaco – Experience the elegance of Monte Carlo, from the casino to the marina.

Day 7: Menton – End your cruise in this lemon-scented town on the Italian border with charm and calm.



SOME YACHT EXAMPLES TO CONSIDER RENTING IN SOUTH OF FRANCE:


ONE PLANET Catamaran: 23,5m, 4 cabins, 10 guests, charter rate starts from 68,000 Euro per week plus VAT and Expenses (APA)

SONISHI Motor Yacht: 40m, 5 cabins, 10 guests, charter rate starts from 175,000 Euro per week plus VAT and APA

CLEAR EYES Motor Sailor: 43m, 5 cabins for 10 guests, weekly charter rate starts from 60,000 Euro plus VAT and APA

CORAL OCEAN Super Yacht: 73m, 7 cabins for 12 guests, weekly charter rate starts from 495,000 Euro plus VAT and APA




There are, of course, many more luxury yachts available for charter in Monaco and along the French Riviera. All can be booked through Contact Yachts, an official MYBA member company where I work as a yacht charter broker. Whether you already know the type of a yacht you're looking for and the features she must have — or you're just beginning your journey and would love to explore the possibilities — feel free to email me your preferred travel dates and number of guests. I’ll prepare a personalized selection of yachts for you to consider. This consultation is free of charge.


WHEN YOU BOOK A YACHT CHARTER IN FRANCE, THIS IS WHAT'S USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE RATE:

  • Yacht rental with a professional crew

  • Daily cleaning, crew services, and standard amenities that are available onboard the yacht

  • Use of onboard equipment (jet ski, seabob, snorkel gear, paddle boards, etc. - what's available on one specific yacht)


WHAT'S USUALLY NOT INCLUDED:

  • APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) – a deposit paid in advanced, usually 30–40% of the charter fee to cover the expenses related with chartering a private yacht (fuel costs; food; drinks; special requests of the clients; port fees, marina reservations, relocation fees if needed, etc).

  • VAT

  • Crew gratuity (typically 10–15% from the charter fee)


Yacht charter broker stands on a yacht's deck beside a helicopter. Clear blue sky and ocean in the background, exuding a luxurious vibe.

WHAT MY ROLE IS AS A SUPER YACHT CHARTER BROKER:

As an industry professional with extensive experience traveling through the Mediterranean and attending international yacht shows, I can offer insider knowledge of the most luxurious yachts available in Monaco and the South of France. While choosing Istanbul and its historical soil as my second home — I actively travel around the Mediterranean to have a firsthand understanding of the yachting industry.

Working with a professional yacht broker ensures you're not just booking a boat — you’re getting the full experience, from selecting the perfect yacht to organizing the itinerary and handling all the behind-the-scenes details. At Contact Yachts we partner with MYBA yacht charter companies, ensuring complete transparency and the highest standards of service for your ultimate vacation.


SOME MORE USEFUL INFORMATION I'D LIKE TO SHARE HERE


LOGISTICS: Reaching the French Riviera is quite easy and quick. Major airports in the area include Nice (NCE), Toulon, and Marseille, all offering direct flights from international locations. For those seeking even more convenience, private jet access is available, with easy connections to the yacht via limousine or helicopter.


THE BOOKING PROCESS: Booking a yacht charter is a personalized process that begins with your inquiry. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Inquiry: reach out to me with your preferred dates and destination.

  2. Discuss preferences: I'll take the time to understand your exact needs – from yacht size to amenities, itinerary, and style of vacation.

  3. Yacht options: based on your preferences, I’ll present you with a selection of yachts to choose from.

  4. Choose your yacht: once you’ve selected the yacht that suits you, we’ll move on to contract negotiations.

  5. Contract: after reviewing and agreeing on the terms, we’ll sign the contract (there are usually four parties in the contract - a yacht's owner, a stakeholder, a broker and a client).

  6. Charter fee, VAT, relocation fees if applicable, APA payment: all this is paid according to the payment schedule set in the contract.

  7. Preferences: some time before the charter you'll be asked to fill in the Preference Sheet to share guests' details, culinary and drinks preferences so the yacht is prepared for your boarding and is sure to have everything you prefer ready onboard for the charter.

  8. Welcome aboard: you’ll be greeted by the crew and begin your unforgettable journey!

Every step is tailored to your needs, ensuring a stress-free and highly personalized experience.


ADDITIONAL OPTIONS FOR THE FRENCH RIVIERA EXPERIENCE:

Just keep in mind that you can also visit Italy when chartering a yacht in South of France, so you'll have an experience of being in two countries on one trip. The French Riviera is perfectly positioned to explore both Italy and France. You can cruise from the glamorous coast of Monaco to Portofino in Italy or explore the stunning island of Sardinia near Corsica.



Let’s Plan Your Yacht Charter on the French Riviera

Whether it’s your first time exploring the Côte d’Azur by sea or you’re returning for another unforgettable experience, I’d love to help you plan every detail of your charter.

Email me anytime at kateryna@contactyachts.com

Browse the yacht fleet at Contact Yachts – a trusted MYBA member company

Together, we’ll find the perfect yacht and itinerary tailored just for you.






MORE YACHT CHARTER EXPERIENCES TO DISCOVER


Turn glamour into a journey!


Want to trade Riviera chic for Italian charm?

 
 
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