There’s a certain kind of traveller who prefers Cassis to its glossier Riviera neighbours—and once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why. Just beyond the restless energy of Marseille, Cassis feels composed, self-assured, and quietly seductive. It doesn’t chase attention. It doesn’t need to.
Here, the Mediterranean feels closer somehow. The light is softer. The days unfold at a gentler pace, shaped by long lunches, salt air, and the rhythm of the harbour. It’s less about being seen, more about being—fully, unhurriedly—in the moment.
The Harbour: Where Everything Begins
Cassis revolves around its port, a near-perfect crescent lined with faded ochre and pastel façades that seem to glow as the day progresses. Fishing boats still return in the early morning, their decks heavy with the day’s catch, while a handful of sleek yachts hint at the town’s quieter, more understated glamour.
By late morning, café terraces begin to fill. Espresso gives way to chilled white wine; conversations stretch out; no one appears in a hurry to be anywhere else. This is where you settle in—watching the choreography of harbour life, from fishermen mending nets to waiters weaving between tables with plates of grilled fish and bowls of bouillabaisse.
Come evening, the atmosphere shifts again. The light turns golden, then amber, and the harbour hums with a low, contented energy. It’s less spectacle, more ritual—one that repeats itself daily, yet never quite feels the same.
Into the Calanques
Just beyond the edge of town, the landscape changes dramatically. The soft charm of Cassis gives way to the raw, sculptural beauty of Calanques National Park—a series of limestone inlets carved deep into the coastline, where the sea turns an almost surreal shade of blue.
Reaching them is part of the experience. You can hike in—following dusty paths scented with pine and wild herbs—or arrive by boat, slipping quietly into hidden coves framed by towering cliffs. Calanque d’En-Vau remains the most photographed, but there is something equally rewarding about discovering a quieter inlet, where the only sounds are the cicadas and the gentle lap of water against rock.
Spend a little longer here and the details begin to emerge: the way the light shifts across the cliffs, the clarity of the water, the sense of complete stillness. It’s a landscape that invites you to slow down, even if only for a few hours.
Eating Well, Naturally
For a town of its size, Cassis eats exceptionally well—unsurprising, given its access to both sea and vineyard.
At the top end, La Villa Madie offers a refined take on Mediterranean cuisine, paired with sweeping coastal views. It’s polished without feeling overdone, and well worth planning ahead for.
Closer to the harbour, Chez Gilbert remains a firm favourite—lively, unfussy, and dependable for classic seafood. For something a little more removed, Le Grand Large delivers a quieter setting with panoramic views that stretch out towards the horizon.
Then there’s La Presqu’île, where long, sunlit lunches feel almost inevitable, and Nino, a more contemporary address that draws a stylish evening crowd.
Wherever you go, the approach is consistent: fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and a sense of ease that defines dining in the South of France.
Wine with a Sense of Place
The vineyards surrounding Cassis are easy to overlook at first glance, but they are central to the town’s identity. The Cassis AOC is known primarily for its whites—crisp, mineral-driven wines with a subtle salinity that reflects their coastal setting.
Many of the estates lie just minutes from the town, where vines stretch towards the sea in neat, sunlit rows. Tastings here feel refreshingly unpretentious. You’re just as likely to find yourself chatting casually with a winemaker as you are following a formal structure.
There’s a quiet confidence to these wines. They don’t compete for attention, but they stay with you—much like Cassis itself.
Markets, Pétanque, and the Art of Slowing Down
Life in Cassis is lived outdoors. The weekly market brings a gentle rhythm to the town, with stalls offering seasonal produce, cheeses, olives, herbs, and handmade goods. It’s not expansive, but it doesn’t need to be. Everything feels considered, local, and tied to the surrounding landscape.
Nearby, shaded squares become informal gathering places where games of pétanque play out at an unhurried pace. There’s no performance here—just quiet concentration, conversation, and the occasional burst of laughter. It’s these everyday rituals that give Cassis its depth, revealing a town that is lived in as much as it is visited.
Where to Stay
Cassis doesn’t lean into large, polished hotels in the way some Riviera destinations do. Instead, it favours smaller, more intimate addresses that reflect the town’s character.
Properties like Les Roches Blanches offer a more elevated experience, with dramatic views over the coastline and a sense of understated luxury that feels in tune with the surroundings. For something more central, boutique guesthouses and private villas tucked into the hills provide a quieter, more personal stay.
Wherever you choose, the emphasis tends to be on atmosphere rather than excess—spaces that feel connected to the landscape rather than separate from it.
Best Time to Visit
Cassis shifts gently with the seasons, and each brings its own appeal. Late spring and early autumn are arguably the most rewarding times to visit, when the weather is warm but not overwhelming, and the pace of the town feels more relaxed.
Summer brings energy—full terraces, busy beaches, and long, sun-filled days that stretch late into the evening. It’s vibrant, but never quite loses its sense of balance.
Even in the quieter months, Cassis retains its charm. The light remains beautiful, the harbour continues its daily rhythm, and the surrounding landscapes feel even more peaceful.
Close to Everything, Yet Entirely Its Own
It’s worth remembering how close Cassis is to Marseille—less than half an hour by car—yet the contrast is striking. Where Marseille is expansive and energetic, Cassis is intimate and composed.
That proximity makes it an easy escape, but also something more: a place you can return to again and again, each time discovering a slightly different rhythm.
The Quiet Luxury of Cassis
Cassis doesn’t rely on spectacle. Its appeal is subtler than that—woven into the quality of the light, the ease of its pace, and the seamless balance between land and sea.
It’s the stillness of the harbour in the early morning. The clarity of the water in a hidden calanque. A long lunch that drifts into the afternoon. A glass of local wine as the sun dips behind the cliffs.
And perhaps that’s why it stays with you. Not because it overwhelms—but because it doesn’t.
There is a particular kind of light on the French Riviera — soft yet luminous, capable of turning even the simplest stone wall into something quietly cinematic. While the region is often associated with glamour — Monaco’s yachts, Cannes’ red carpets, Saint-Tropez’s beach clubs — its true beauty lies elsewhere.
The French Riviera is home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in Europe, where medieval streets, coastal views, and a slower Mediterranean rhythm come together effortlessly. From hilltop hideaways to pastel harbours, these destinations offer a more intimate and authentic way to experience the Côte d’Azur.
Whether you are searching for the most beautiful villages on the French Riviera or simply looking to explore beyond the obvious, these ten locations reveal the region at its most charming.
1. Old Antibes – One of the Prettiest Towns on the French Riviera
Old Antibes captures the essence of Riviera living — vibrant, historic, and effortlessly elegant. Within its ancient ramparts, daily life unfolds with a rhythm that feels both timeless and alive.
What makes it special:
Encircled by 16th-century ramparts overlooking the sea
A vibrant Provençal market at Cours Masséna
Narrow cobbled lanes filled with bougainvillea
A rich blend of Greek, Roman, and medieval history
The glittering Port Vauban — Europe’s largest marina
Artisan shops and independent galleries
Golden light at sunset along the coastal walls
A lively yet authentic atmosphere
Easy access to sandy beaches
A seamless mix of culture and seaside leisure
Old Antibes stands out among the best towns on the French Riviera for its balance — never overly polished, yet undeniably beautiful. It is a place to wander without a plan, where each turn reveals a café, a courtyard, or a glimpse of the sea.
The Musée Picasso offers a cultural highlight, housed in the château where Picasso once worked.
For dining, Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit provides refined Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate courtyard setting.
2. Menton – One of the Most Beautiful Coastal Towns on the French Riviera
Menton feels worlds away from the Riviera’s high-energy hotspots. Sitting on the Italian border, it is softer, slower, and bathed in warm, golden light.
What makes it special:
A pastel old town cascading toward the sea
A microclimate ideal for citrus groves
The famous Lemon Festival
Elegant Baroque architecture
Peaceful, uncrowded beaches
A relaxed Riviera atmosphere
Italian-influenced cuisine and culture
Scenic seaside promenades
Exceptional botanical gardens
A sense of undiscovered charm
Menton is often considered one of the most beautiful towns on the Côte d’Azur, yet it remains refreshingly understated. It invites you to slow down — to linger over lunch, to explore quietly, to absorb its atmosphere.
The Jean Cocteau Museum reflects the town’s artistic heritage.
Dining at Mirazur elevates the experience, combining seasonal gastronomy with breathtaking views.
3. Villefranche-sur-Mer – A Picture-Perfect Riviera Harbour Town
Villefranche-sur-Mer is widely regarded as one of the prettiest seaside towns on the French Riviera, thanks to its extraordinary bay and colourful waterfront.
What makes it special:
A deep natural harbour with turquoise waters
Colourful facades along the waterfront
The historic Rue Obscure
A rare sandy beach
A more intimate feel than nearby Nice
Stunning coastal viewpoints
A historic citadel
Charming waterfront cafés
Excellent train connections
A cinematic Riviera setting
There is an undeniable romance to Villefranche — especially in the early morning or at dusk, when the harbour becomes almost impossibly serene.
The Citadel of Saint-Elme offers both history and views.
For dining, La Mère Germaine remains a Riviera institution.
4. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – A Hidden Gem of the French Riviera
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is often described as one of the most exclusive yet beautiful places on the French Riviera, where nature and elegance coexist effortlessly.
What makes it special:
A peninsula lined with secluded beaches
Spectacular coastal walking paths
Grand villas hidden among gardens
Crystal-clear swimming spots
A peaceful, refined atmosphere
Mediterranean flora and pine forests
Discreet luxury
Elegant harbour life
A sense of privacy
Exceptional landscaped gardens
Unlike busier Riviera destinations, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat rewards those who take their time. Its beauty is subtle, revealed slowly through walks, swims, and quiet moments.
Dining at Paloma Beach Restaurant captures the essence of relaxed Riviera luxury.
5. Gourdon – One of the Most Beautiful Hilltop Villages on the French Riviera
Gourdon is widely considered one of the most beautiful villages on the French Riviera, thanks to its dramatic setting high above the Loup Valley.
What makes it special:
Panoramic views stretching to the sea
A preserved medieval layout
A quiet, uncrowded atmosphere
Artisan boutiques
Stone houses and floral details
A strong sense of history
Scenic mountain drives
Cooler summer temperatures
A peaceful escape
Official “Plus Beaux Villages de France” status
Gourdon offers something entirely different from the coast — perspective. It is a place to pause, breathe, and take in the scale of the Riviera landscape.
The Château de Gourdon enhances the experience.
Dining at Le Relais des Seigneurs is as much about the view as the food.
6. Èze – One of the Most Famous Villages on the French Riviera
Èze is perhaps the most iconic of all — a village that perfectly defines the idea of a beautiful French Riviera village.
What makes it special:
A clifftop position above the Mediterranean
Winding medieval streets
Bougainvillea-covered stone walls
Elevated viewpoints throughout
Artisan shops and perfumeries
A romantic atmosphere
The Nietzsche Path
Boutique luxury hotels
Stunning panoramic views
A blend of heritage and refinement
Èze feels almost theatrical in its beauty — each step revealing another carefully framed view.
The Exotic Garden of Èze offers one of the best viewpoints on the Côte d’Azur.
Dining at La Chèvre d’Or is an unforgettable experience.
7. Saint-Paul-de-Vence – A Cultural and Artistic Riviera Village
Saint-Paul-de-Vence stands out among the most charming villages on the French Riviera for its deep artistic heritage.
What makes it special:
A long-standing artistic legacy
Fortified medieval walls
Numerous galleries
Sculptures throughout the village
A refined cultural atmosphere
Views over olive groves
A contemplative pace
Rich history
Frequent exhibitions
Timeless appeal
This is a village that invites reflection — less about spectacle, more about atmosphere and culture.
The Fondation Maeght is a highlight for art lovers.
Dining at La Colombe d’Or blends history, art, and gastronomy.
8. Mougins – A Gourmet Village on the French Riviera
Mougins is one of the best villages on the French Riviera for gastronomy, set among green hills just above Cannes.
What makes it special:
A strong culinary reputation
A spiral-shaped historic centre
Panoramic countryside views
A connection to Picasso
Numerous fine dining options
Golf courses and leisure
A refined residential feel
Art galleries
A quieter setting
A focus on lifestyle
Mougins offers a different Riviera experience — one defined by taste, tranquillity, and a slower pace.
The Musée d’Art Classique de Mougins reflects its cultural depth.
Dining at Le Candille highlights its gastronomic appeal.
9. Grimaud – A Charming Medieval Village on the French Riviera
Grimaud is one of the most charming villages near Saint-Tropez, offering history and authenticity away from the crowds.
What makes it special:
A preserved medieval centre
Castle ruins with panoramic views
Flower-filled streets
A peaceful Provençal feel
Views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
Historic charm
Quaint squares
Fewer crowds
Local markets
A sense of discovery
Grimaud reveals itself slowly — a place where wandering is the experience.
The Château de Grimaud offers breathtaking views.
Dining at Le Clem’s provides a relaxed yet refined experience.
10. Grasse – One of the Most Unique Towns on the French Riviera
Grasse is unlike anywhere else on the Riviera — a town defined by scent, heritage, and craftsmanship.
What makes it special:
The world’s perfume capital
Historic narrow streets
Surrounding flower fields
A deep artisanal tradition
Scenic countryside views
Perfume museums
Authentic local life
Baroque architecture
A less polished feel
A distinctive identity
Grasse offers depth and authenticity — a reminder that the Riviera is not only about the sea, but also about culture and tradition.
The International Perfume Museum brings its story to life.
Dining at Le Clos Saint-Pierre completes the experience.
A Riviera Beyond the Most Beautiful Villages
The true beauty of the Côte d’Azur lies not only in its famous coastline, but in these towns and villages — each offering its own version of Riviera charm. From the dramatic views of Gourdon to the artistic soul of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, these are places that invite you to slow down and experience the region more deeply.
Whether you are seeking the prettiest towns on the French Riviera, the most beautiful villages on the Côte d’Azur, or simply a more authentic side of southern France, these destinations offer something enduring.
They are not just places to visit — they are places to return to.
There are few places in the world where luxury feels as deeply embedded in the landscape as it does along the French Riviera. Not constructed, not manufactured—but accumulated, layer by layer, over centuries of changing tastes, shifting fortunes, and evolving definitions of what it means to live well.
Long before the superyachts lined the harbour of Saint-Tropez or the penthouses rose above Monaco, this narrow ribbon of Mediterranean coastline was already quietly redefining luxury. It began not with spectacle, but with retreat. Not with visibility, but with escape.
To trace the history of Riviera luxury is to follow a slow transformation—from aristocratic refuge to artistic sanctuary, from cinematic stage to billionaire stronghold—each era leaving behind its own imprint on the coastline.
The First Arrivals: Health, Climate, and the Birth of Escape
Luxury, on the Riviera, began almost accidentally.
In the late 18th century, long before tourism as we understand it existed, the region attracted a particular kind of visitor: those in search of better air. Northern Europe’s winters were harsh, damp, and often detrimental to health—especially for those suffering from respiratory illnesses. Physicians began recommending the Mediterranean climate as a remedy, and gradually, the southern coast of France emerged as a destination for seasonal migration.
At the time, towns like Nice were modest, almost provincial. Fishing villages dotted the coastline. Roads were unreliable, and infrastructure minimal. And yet, for those who could afford the journey, the rewards were profound: sunlight in winter, clear air, and a slower pace of life.
What began as necessity quickly evolved into habit.
British aristocrats were among the first to establish a presence, building winter residences and forming small, insular communities. These early visitors did not come for entertainment. They came for quiet. For recovery. For space.
Luxury, in this earliest phase, was defined by absence—of cold, of illness, of obligation.
And in that absence, something new took shape: the idea of the Riviera as an escape.
Royal Endorsement: When Prestige Followed Climate
If the Riviera’s early appeal was rooted in health, its transformation into a symbol of prestige came through association.
The arrival of Queen Victoria in the late 19th century marked a turning point. Her extended stays in the region—particularly around Nice and Menton—did more than attract attention; they legitimised the destination. Royal presence has always had a gravitational effect, and in this case, it drew Europe’s upper classes southward in increasing numbers.
Where royalty goes, society follows.
Villas became more elaborate. Gardens more ambitious. Architecture began to reflect not just comfort, but status. Italian influences blended with French styles, creating a distinctive aesthetic that still defines the region today—pale facades, terraced landscapes, and panoramic sea views designed as much for contemplation as for display.
Entire social calendars began to form around the winter season. The Riviera was no longer simply a place to recover—it was a place to be.
And yet, even at this stage, luxury remained relatively restrained. There were no beach clubs, no nightlife circuits, no visible excess. Wealth expressed itself through discretion—through land, through architecture, through time spent away from the public eye.
The Belle Époque: Architecture, Access, and the Rise of Glamour
The late 19th and early 20th centuries ushered in the Belle Époque—a period that would fundamentally reshape the Riviera’s identity.
Railway expansion played a crucial role. What had once been a difficult journey became accessible, at least for Europe’s elite. With improved access came investment, and with investment came ambition.
Grand hotels began to rise along the coastline, each one more opulent than the last. These were not merely places to stay—they were statements. Palatial interiors, expansive terraces, and meticulously designed gardens transformed the Riviera into a stage for a new kind of luxury: one that could be seen.
Monaco, in particular, emerged as a focal point during this period. Its casino, already established, became a symbol of the era’s fascination with risk and reward. Gambling, once considered improper in many circles, was recontextualised as sophisticated entertainment.
Luxury was evolving. It was no longer only about retreat—it was about experience.
And yet, the Riviera maintained its balance. For every grand hotel, there remained private villas. For every public space, a hidden garden. The region offered both visibility and seclusion, allowing visitors to choose their level of engagement.
Artists, Writers, and the Reinvention of Prestige
The early 20th century brought a different kind of visitor—one less concerned with status, and more with meaning.
Artists and writers began arriving in increasing numbers, drawn by the Riviera’s light, its landscapes, and its sense of detachment from conventional European life. Figures such as Picasso and Matisse found inspiration here, while writers of the Lost Generation turned the coastline into a backdrop for new forms of storytelling.
This was not luxury in the traditional sense. Many of these creatives lived relatively simply. And yet, their presence altered the perception of the Riviera in lasting ways.
Prestige became cultural.
Private villas turned into gathering spaces for intellectual exchange. Dinner parties became less about formality and more about conversation. The Riviera evolved into a place where wealth and creativity coexisted, sometimes uneasily, but often productively.
This period added depth to the region’s identity. It was no longer just a destination for the wealthy—it was a place where ideas were formed, where art was created, where culture was shaped.
And in doing so, it introduced a new layer of luxury: the luxury of perspective.
Post-War Transformation: From Winter Retreat to Summer Playground
The Second World War disrupted the Riviera, as it did much of Europe. But in its aftermath came reinvention.
The traditional winter season began to fade. In its place, summer emerged as the dominant period of activity. This shift was more than seasonal—it was cultural.
Sunbathing, once frowned upon, became fashionable. Beaches transformed from quiet stretches of coastline into social spaces. The idea of leisure became more visible, more physical, more immediate.
Hollywood played a significant role in this transformation. Film stars brought with them a new kind of glamour—less restrained, more expressive. The Cannes Film Festival, established in 1946, became a focal point, blending cinema, fashion, and international attention in a way that redefined the Riviera’s global image.
Luxury adapted accordingly.
Beach clubs began to appear. Yachting culture expanded. The coastline became not just a place to stay, but a place to be seen.
And yet, even as visibility increased, the Riviera retained its dual nature. Away from the crowds, the villas remained. The quiet corners persisted. The balance between public and private endured.
The Jet Set Era: Mobility, Style, and Global Influence
By the 1960s and 70s, the Riviera had entered what might be considered its most iconic phase: the jet set era.
Private aviation transformed travel, making the coastline accessible not just to Europeans, but to a global elite. The Riviera became a key stop on an international circuit that included New York, London, and beyond.
This was an era defined by movement—fast, fluid, and glamorous.
Yachts grew larger. Parties became more elaborate. Fashion, architecture, and lifestyle began to merge into a cohesive aesthetic that was instantly recognisable: relaxed, sun-drenched, and quietly extravagant.
Importantly, this period also marked the rise of media visibility. Photographs of Riviera life circulated globally, shaping perceptions and aspirations. The region became not just a destination, but an idea—one that people could imagine, even if they could not access it.
Luxury, in this era, was both lived and observed.
The Modern Riviera: Billionaires, Discretion, and the Redefinition of Luxury
Today, the Riviera exists in a new phase—one shaped by a different kind of wealth.
Billionaires have replaced aristocrats as the dominant force, but their approach to luxury is notably different. Where previous generations sought visibility, many of today’s ultra-wealthy seek discretion.
Privacy has become the ultimate currency.
While Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez remain central to the Riviera’s identity, they often function more as stages than as residences. The real living happens elsewhere—in quieter enclaves, behind gates, beyond view.
Places like Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cap d’Antibes, and the hills above Èze offer what the modern elite values most: space, security, and control.
Superyachts have evolved into self-contained environments, allowing their owners to experience the Riviera without ever fully engaging with it. Villas are designed with advanced systems that prioritise privacy and autonomy. Travel is orchestrated with precision, often bypassing public infrastructure entirely.
Luxury, once again, has shifted.
It is no longer about access alone—it is about selective access. The ability to engage when desired, and to withdraw when not.
Continuity in Change: What Has Never Altered
For all its evolution, the Riviera has retained a remarkable consistency.
The motivations of its visitors have changed—health, status, creativity, visibility, privacy—but the underlying appeal remains the same.
Light. Climate. Landscape. Rhythm.
There is something about the Riviera that encourages a different pace of life. Days stretch longer. Time feels less structured. The boundary between work and leisure softens.
This continuity is what gives the region its enduring power. It is not simply adapting to new forms of wealth—it is absorbing them, integrating them into an existing framework that has been refined over centuries.
The Riviera Today: A Living Archive of Luxury
To visit the Riviera today is to experience multiple eras at once.
A Belle Époque hotel may sit beside a contemporary villa. A quiet garden may exist just minutes from a crowded beach club. A centuries-old village may overlook a harbour filled with modern yachts.
This layering is what makes the region unique.
It is not frozen in time, nor is it entirely modern. It is both—a living archive of luxury in all its forms.
There are many ways to experience the French Riviera. Most involve traffic, reservations made weeks in advance, and the faint sense of arriving slightly too late — after the ideal table has gone, after the harbour has filled, after the mythology has thinned into something more transactional than romantic.
Approached from the sea, however, the Riviera regains its original logic. This was always a coastline first encountered by sailors, aristocrats, and wanderers arriving under canvas rather than by car. Its geography — folded headlands, sudden bays, towns clinging to slopes above natural harbours — reveals itself sequentially, not all at once. A superyacht restores that narrative. It transforms a crowded region into a private procession of landscapes, each one unfolding at precisely the pace its guests prefer.
For ultra-high-net-worth travellers, a week on board is not a conventional holiday but a controlled environment: part residence, part retreat, part social platform. Staff anticipate preferences within hours. Children adapt quickly to the reassuring constancy of cabins and routines. Hosts can entertain without relinquishing privacy. And perhaps most importantly, the usual frictions of movement — packing, security, transfers, delays — simply vanish. The residence itself moves.
What follows is not an exhaustive catalogue of sights but a deliberately paced progression from urban intensity to pastoral calm, from ceremonial glamour to near silence. It reflects how experienced charterers actually use the Riviera: selectively, fluidly, and always with the option to withdraw.
Day 1 — Monaco
Most itineraries begin in Monaco not because it is the most beautiful point on the coast — it is not — but because nowhere else compresses wealth, infrastructure, and discretion so efficiently into such a small area. Helicopter Transfers shuttle continuously from Nice Airport to the principality, reducing what could be a tedious transfer into a seven-minute aerial introduction to the coastline.
Guests typically arrive in waves, their aircraft schedules rarely aligned. The yacht absorbs this staggered arrival pattern effortlessly. Early arrivals settle into cabins, change into lighter clothing, and migrate toward the aft deck where chilled drinks appear without request. Crew members perform a subtle choreography: luggage unpacked invisibly, dietary preferences confirmed, jet lag mitigated with precisely timed refreshments.
Lunch is often taken while still in port, allowing the final guests to join without ceremony. Only when everyone is assembled does departure occur. Lines are slipped, the harbour walls recede, and Monaco’s improbable skyline — terraces stacked like theatre seating — begins to dissolve into distance.
It is at this moment that the psychological transition takes hold. The land-based world, with its urgency and noise, feels abruptly remote. The yacht’s motion is gentle, almost imperceptible, yet the sense of separation is profound. By late afternoon the vessel may already be anchored in calmer water, the principality reduced to a faint shimmer on the horizon.
Day 2 — Cap Ferrat and Villefranche
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat represents the Riviera’s original idea of luxury: discretion rather than display, cultivated gardens rather than spectacle. From the water, the peninsula appears almost entirely green, its celebrated villas concealed behind layers of pine and cypress. Unlike Monaco’s vertical ambition, this landscape communicates permanence and restraint.
The bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer provides one of the deepest natural anchorages on the coast, sheltered from most prevailing winds. Morning begins quietly. Light filters through cabin windows. The faint sounds are elemental — water against the hull, distant gulls, the soft activity of crew preparing breakfast.
Some guests tender ashore to Paloma Beach, whose longevity confers a kind of authority no new venue can replicate. Others remain on board, discovering that swimming directly from the yacht in crystalline water is often more satisfying than any curated beach experience. For those seeking cultural diversion, a short drive inland leads to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a confection of themed gardens overlooking the sea on both sides of the peninsula.
Evening brings a subtle transformation. As lights appear along the waterfront, the yacht’s position offshore creates a sensation of hovering above the town rather than being part of it. Conversations lengthen. The pace slows further. Many guests begin to realise that the most memorable moments of the week may occur not ashore but in these interstitial hours at anchor.
Day 3 — Cap d’Antibes and Antibes
The westward passage to Cap d’Antibes introduces a different social climate. This is territory associated with long-established wealth, where reputations were formed decades ago and require no reinforcement. The coastline alternates between rugged outcrops and manicured estates, culminating in the storied presence of the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc.
Anchoring nearby places guests within tender distance of lunches that unfold with deliberate languor. Yet the yacht remains the superior refuge, allowing retreat whenever the sociability of shore becomes excessive. This ability to engage selectively — to appear briefly, then disappear — is one of the superyacht’s greatest advantages over hotel living.
Antibes itself offers a welcome injection of authenticity. Its old town functions year-round, and the harbour at Port Vauban hosts a remarkable concentration of large private vessels. Walking the quays can feel like touring an informal museum of naval engineering and personal ambition. For UHNW travellers accustomed to rarity, the sheer scale and variety of yachts can be quietly exhilarating.
Night is typically spent at anchor off the cap, where urban light fades enough to reveal a sky dense with stars — a contrast to the perpetual illumination of Monaco.
Day 4 — Cannes and the Îles de Lérins
Cannes presents a study in contrasts. During major events it becomes a nexus of global attention; at other times it can feel oddly subdued, its grand hotels and boutiques awaiting the next influx. Arriving by yacht allows guests to sample the city on their own terms.
Some may disembark for shopping along the Croisette or private meetings in hotel suites. Others bypass the mainland entirely, preferring the nearby Îles de Lérins. These islands, visible from Cannes yet psychologically distant, provide pine forests, secluded coves, and water of extraordinary clarity.
Lunch on Île Sainte-Marguerite often proves a highlight: rustic surroundings paired with a clientele that betrays little of its wealth. The absence of overt display creates a relaxed atmosphere rare on the Riviera’s more famous beaches. Afternoon swimming in sheltered bays reinforces the sense that true luxury here lies not in exclusivity alone but in contrast — the ability to move instantly between glamour and simplicity.
Day 5 — Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez occupies a unique place in the Riviera imagination. Its fame is so entrenched that novelty is almost irrelevant; what matters is participation in a ritual repeated each summer for generations. Approaching by sea preserves the drama. The harbour’s pastel buildings and church tower appear gradually, framed by hills that still retain traces of the fishing village that preceded the legend.
Guests must choose between berthing in the port, which places them at the centre of nocturnal activity, or anchoring off Pampelonne Beach, where the atmosphere is more relaxed but still socially vibrant. Club 55 remains the reference point, valued less for extravagance than for its effortless competence. Reservations are handled discreetly by the yacht’s agents, allowing arrival by tender to feel spontaneous rather than orchestrated.
Days here are exuberant. Watersports occupy the morning; lunches extend deep into the afternoon; evenings oscillate between on-board entertaining and excursions ashore. Yet the ability to retreat offshore ensures that even the most sociable guests retain control over their exposure. Saint-Tropez may be theatre, but the yacht functions as a private box from which one can watch or withdraw at will.
Day 6 — Cap Taillat and Porquerolles
South of Saint-Tropez the coastline relaxes into something closer to wilderness. Cap Taillat’s sandbar and translucent water introduce a palette of colours seldom associated with the Mediterranean — pale aquamarine, jade, silver. Development becomes sparse; the atmosphere shifts from performative to contemplative.
Porquerolles, protected as part of a national park, reinforces this transition. The island’s interior is accessible by bicycle rather than chauffeured car, passing vineyards, olive groves, and beaches that feel unexpectedly unspoiled. For guests accustomed to urban environments, the simplicity can be deeply restorative.
Many experienced charterers identify this stage as the emotional core of the week. Freed from social obligations and visual noise, the yacht becomes less a symbol of status than a sanctuary. Dinner on deck under minimal artificial light reveals constellations rarely visible elsewhere along the coast, reminding guests that the Mediterranean remains a natural environment despite centuries of cultivation.
Day 7 — Return and Reintegration
The final day carries a subtle melancholy. Shoreside responsibilities begin to reassert themselves; phones reappear; conversations shift toward logistics. Yet departure is engineered to feel as frictionless as arrival. Whether returning to Monaco or Cannes, helicopters or chauffeured vehicles await with quiet efficiency.
From the air, the coastline forms a continuous ribbon of mountains and sea punctuated by harbours that now feel personally familiar rather than abstractly famous. The journey’s arc becomes visible: from urban density to pastoral calm and back again.
Why a Yacht Changes Everything
Five-star hotels can match or even exceed the material luxury of a superyacht, but they cannot replicate its continuity. The environment remains constant while the scenery evolves. Crew learn preferences rapidly and retain them throughout the week. There is no need to adapt to new rooms, new procedures, or new social atmospheres.
Time itself behaves differently. Distances that would require hours by car become gentle passages measured in sunlight and sea state. The Riviera ceases to feel like a collection of destinations and instead reveals itself as a single landscape with subtle variations.
For individuals whose professional lives are defined by speed and efficiency, this deceleration can feel almost radical. Decisions become simpler: where to anchor, when to swim, whether to go ashore at all.
The Freedom to Deviate
No itinerary is ever final. Weather patterns, spontaneous invitations, or the discovery of an especially beautiful bay frequently prompt revisions. Some groups detour to Corsica or Sardinia; others linger longer than planned in a single anchorage. The yacht’s autonomy makes such changes trivial.
Indeed, the highest form of luxury may be precisely this freedom to ignore plans altogether.
A Different Perspective on the Riviera
Seen from land, the French Riviera can appear saturated — its narratives rehearsed, its hotspots predictable. Seen from the water, it becomes expansive again. Headlands conceal hidden beaches. Towns reveal architectural coherence invisible from within. Light shifts continuously across the sea, altering familiar views hour by hour.
For ultra-high-net-worth travellers, the appeal lies not only in comfort or prestige but in perspective. The sea creates distance — physical, psychological, even temporal — from the mechanisms of daily life. It allows engagement without entanglement, presence without permanence.
By the time guests step ashore for the final time, they often remember not specific venues but sensations: mornings without urgency, conversations unbounded by schedules, landscapes revealed gradually rather than consumed.
The ultimate Riviera luxury, it turns out, is not any particular harbour or beach club. It is the ability to leave them all behind whenever one chooses — and to wake the next day somewhere entirely new, with the horizon waiting.
10 of the Best Yachts to Charter on the French Riviera in Summer 2026
A4 — Leopard 27m
A4 is a 27-metre Leopard, and she behaves like one in all the right ways. Fast when you want her to be. Open where it matters. Designed for Mediterranean cruising rather than long passages or formal entertaining.
The Leopard DNA is immediately apparent. Low profile. Clean lines. An emphasis on outdoor living over enclosed volume. On the Riviera, that formula works.
The retractable roof transforms the saloon within seconds, turning the interior into an extension of the deck. It means lunch flows naturally. It means guests don’t feel separated. It means that when the breeze picks up off Cap d’Antibes, you can adapt without interrupting the rhythm of the day.
A4 isn’t oversized, and she doesn’t try to be. She’s not competing with 40-metre superyachts for dockside presence in Monaco. Instead, she excels at what the Côte d’Azur does best — short coastal runs, dynamic afternoons at anchor and spontaneous movement between ports.
This is where a Leopard really earns its place. Leave Saint-Tropez after breakfast. Drop anchor in the Lerins Islands before midday. Slide into Monaco in time for dinner. With A4, those transitions feel effortless.
For charters centred around Saint-Tropez, Cap d’Antibes or Monaco day trips, she offers real freedom. You can leave late. Arrive quickly. Adjust plans without logistical friction. That flexibility is often undervalued — until you experience it.
For couples or smaller groups who value speed over formality and open decks over enclosed salons, A4 is a sharp, highly usable Riviera charter yacht. A true Mediterranean Leopard in spirit and execution.
Aurelia — 37m Heesen
AURELIA is a 37-metre Heesen yacht, and she carries that heritage with quiet confidence. Built by Heesen, one of the Netherlands’ most respected yards, AURELIA feels engineered rather than merely assembled. There is substance beneath the styling. Doors close cleanly. Machinery hums rather than rattles. Underway, the yacht feels composed and deliberate.
Her unique Gulf paint scheme sets AURELIA apart immediately. In a sea of white hulls along the Côte d’Azur, this yacht is recognisable without being ostentatious. The colour gives her character. Presence, without shouting for it.
At 37 metres, AURELIA occupies a particularly practical segment of the market. She offers genuine superyacht volume, yet she remains manageable in Riviera marinas where space is often limited. Monaco, Antibes, even tighter berths along the coast — this is a yacht that fits comfortably into the rhythm of the region.
Underway, the Heesen pedigree becomes more apparent. AURELIA runs quietly. She feels stable at anchor, even when afternoon swell rolls through open roadsteads. For a seven-day charter built around short Mediterranean passages — Cannes to Cap Ferrat, Monaco to Saint-Tropez — that consistency matters more than most guests initially realise.
The interior of this Heesen yacht is elegant but restrained. No unnecessary theatrics. Cabins are well proportioned, giving guests genuine comfort rather than novelty. Deck spaces are practical, designed for actual use rather than brochure photography.
From €110,000 per week, AURELIA represents serious value for a Dutch-built Heesen yacht of this calibre. She suits families who want composure. Experienced charterers who understand build quality. Clients who care more about how a yacht performs than how loudly she announces herself.
AURELIA isn’t about spectacle. She’s about reliability and refinement — qualities that, on the Riviera, often prove far more valuable.
Cherry — Pershing 8X
If you prefer energy to understatement, Cherry delivers it.
This is a Pershing 8X, built in 2023, and she feels every bit as sharp as you would expect from the model. The Pershing 8X is unapologetically performance-driven. Sleek profile. Aggressive stance. Carbon-rich construction. Everything about the yacht signals intent.
Her Monaco home berth only reinforces that identity. The Pershing 8X looks entirely at ease entering Port Hercule — low, fast and confident among the larger superyachts. She doesn’t compete on volume. She competes on presence.
And then there’s the speed.
With a top speed of 48 knots, this Pershing 8X sits in a different category from most yachts in her size range. Not theoretical speed. Real speed. The kind that turns Monaco into a morning coffee stop rather than a full-day commitment.
But performance alone doesn’t define this yacht.
The outdoor spaces are expansive and intelligently arranged. Sun pads forward and aft create multiple social zones. The cockpit encourages connection rather than separation. Even at anchor off the Lerins Islands or Cap d’Antibes, the Pershing 8X remains a social platform, not just a fast machine.
For guests who like to move — Monaco in the morning, Lerins Islands for lunch, Cap d’Antibes for sunset cocktails — Cherry makes that itinerary effortless. A late departure doesn’t compromise the day. A spontaneous change of plan becomes part of the experience rather than a logistical issue.
The Riviera has always had a place for bold, open yachts. The Pershing 8X embodies that tradition, and Cherry executes it with modern precision.
For charterers who measure a week not just in destinations but in momentum, this is a yacht that keeps up.
Eclat — Leopard 31m
The Leopard 31 has long been a Mediterranean favourite, and Eclat is a strong example of why the model continues to perform so well on the Riviera.
There’s an honesty to the Leopard 31. It’s built around warm-weather living. Open. Sociable. Purposeful. The transition between interior and exterior is seamless, which becomes immediately apparent the moment you drop anchor. The cockpit naturally becomes the centre of the yacht, drawing guests outward rather than inward.
But the Leopard 31 isn’t only about exterior living.
Inside, Eclat offers luxurious interior spaces designed by Rodriguez, blending contemporary comfort with a generous, practical layout. The saloon is thoughtfully arranged with two large sofas facing one another, creating a genuinely usable social area rather than a decorative one. Full entertainment systems are integrated cleanly, and ample natural light flows through the space — something that matters during longer lunches or cooler evenings.
Satellite TV is available in all cabins, complete with flat screens and iPad control, giving guests complete autonomy without complication. It’s subtle technology, but it enhances the onboard experience without dominating it.
Back outside, the Leopard 31 returns to its true Mediterranean character.
The exterior living spaces are impressive. Alfresco dining works beautifully on the aft deck, which is equipped with a removable shade for when the afternoon heat peaks. A large raised sunpad invites long, unhurried hours in the sun. Forward, the spacious foredeck features a built-in oversized sunpad — arguably one of the best seats onboard when cruising past Cap d’Antibes or approaching Monaco.
The full-beam extended swim platform transforms the stern into a genuine water-level terrace. Combined with a strong selection of watersports equipment and toys, it ensures that time at anchor never feels static. Guests can swim, launch toys, or simply sit with their feet in the water while the day unfolds.
Off Pampelonne in July, when the anchorage fills early and the atmosphere builds through the afternoon, a Leopard 31 makes sense. Guests move easily between zones. Crew circulate efficiently. The layout supports the energy rather than fighting it.
She’s fast enough to make coastal repositioning enjoyable and large enough to host properly without feeling oversized for tighter Riviera ports. For groups who prioritise sun, water access and relaxed sophistication over formal dining rooms and enclosed salons, the Leopard 31 remains one of the most practical and enjoyable platforms along the Côte d’Azur.
And aboard Eclat, that Mediterranean formula feels very well executed.
FANAMAX — Mangusta 110
Mangusta understands the Riviera better than most builders.
The Mangusta 110 was conceived for precisely this coastline — where speed, stability and outdoor living must coexist without compromise. And FANAMAX, one of the newest Mangusta 110 yachts available to charter, embodies that philosophy exceptionally well.
This is a stylish and sporty Mangusta 110 in the truest sense. Sleek lines. Low profile. Purpose-built for Mediterranean cruising. The moment FANAMAX leaves the dock, you feel the difference in how she handles the water.
She cruises quickly, as a Mangusta 110 should, but remains impressively comfortable thanks to her stabilisers. On shorter, sometimes choppier Mediterranean passages — Monaco to Cannes, Antibes to Saint-Tropez — that stability matters. It keeps lunch civilised. It keeps conversations uninterrupted.
Performance is central to the Mangusta 110 identity, yet FANAMAX never feels aggressive or uncomfortable. Instead, she strikes that balance the model is known for: fast when required, composed when stationary.
At anchor, the swim platform becomes the focal point of the yacht. Off Cap Ferrat or in the Lerins Islands, it transforms into a water-level terrace. The toy selection reinforces that energy — an impressive inventory including a jet ski and two Seabobs ensures that time at anchor remains active and engaging.
The deck spaces on this Mangusta 110 are sociable without feeling compressed. Guests can spread out across sunpads, cockpit seating and shaded areas without losing connection. That flow is essential on a Riviera charter where the day moves organically.
Inside, the interior design by Piet Boon adds a layer of refinement not always found on performance yachts. Clean lines. Balanced tones. Understated sophistication. The Mangusta 110 platform may be sporty, but aboard FANAMAX the atmosphere remains polished.
And then there’s the crew.
An amazing crew elevates any charter yacht, but on a fast-moving Mangusta 110 like FANAMAX, execution becomes even more important. Efficient tender handling. Quick anchoring. Seamless service between high-energy cruising legs. It all contributes to a week that feels effortless.
For guests who want to cover distance efficiently — perhaps Monaco in the morning, Saint-Tropez by late afternoon — without sacrificing comfort or style, the Mangusta 110 FANAMAX is highly practical.
Performance here does not come at the expense of comfort. That balance is precisely why the Mangusta 110 remains such a Riviera favourite — and why FANAMAX stands out among them.
Fiorente — 37m Ferronavale
Some charters call for theatre. Others call for calm.
At nearly 37 metres, this yacht offers genuine space while carrying herself with understated elegance. FIORENTE is not designed to dominate a dock in Monaco. She is designed to be lived on — comfortably, privately and without excess noise.
The yacht underwent an extensive five-million-euro refit between 2014 and 2018, bringing FIORENTE back to her former glory and ensuring she remains competitive in today’s charter market. The result is a yacht that feels cared for rather than simply maintained.
Inside, FIORENTE leans slightly more classic in tone, though never dated. The atmosphere is warm. Balanced. Considered. Movie night has never looked so good thanks to FIORENTE’s state-of-the-art entertainment system featuring Bang & Olufsen technology. The incredibly easy-to-use Sonos system throughout the yacht ensures the right music is always playing at exactly the right moment — whether that’s relaxed jazz at anchor off Cap Ferrat or something more upbeat before dinner in Antibes.
FIORENTE supports up to 10 charter guests in five spacious staterooms: an en-suite master, two double staterooms and two twin cabins. It’s a configuration that works particularly well for families or mixed groups of couples and children. Each cabin feels properly proportioned — this yacht was built for comfort, not just capacity.
On deck, FIORENTE proves equally versatile. Multiple seating and dining arrangements across two deck areas ensure the yacht remains a classic choice for al fresco entertainment. Dining on the aft deck feels natural and unforced. Upper deck lounging becomes the preferred setting for sunset drinks.
And when the yacht is at anchor, stabilisers ensure smiles and relaxation for all guests. On board FIORENTE, sea-sickness becomes largely irrelevant. The experience remains steady, even when the afternoon swell rolls through the anchorage.
For those who prefer action, FIORENTE’s impressive collection of adventure gear and water toys is enough to excite even the most seasoned adrenaline enthusiast. The yacht transitions easily from tranquil morning coffee to high-energy afternoon water sessions.
Evenings at anchor off Cap Ferrat or in the Golfe Juan take on a slower, more intentional pace aboard FIORENTE. This is the type of yacht where conversations stretch late into the night and privacy feels natural rather than engineered.
In a region that often chases spectacle, FIORENTE offers something more grounded. A yacht built for consistency. A yacht built for comfort. A yacht that understands that Riviera luxury is often about what doesn’t need to be said.
Heeus — 44m Bering Yachts
An explorer yacht on the Riviera shifts the narrative.
Heeus does exactly that.
At 44 metres, Heeus is built by Bering Yachts, a shipyard known for robust explorer platforms designed for serious cruising capability. That pedigree is immediately noticeable. Heeus feels substantial underfoot. Solid. Reassuring. She carries a different energy than a typical Riviera sport yacht.
Yet despite her explorer credentials, Heeus integrates seamlessly into the Côte d’Azur rhythm.
Cruising between Cannes and Monaco is effortless, but Heeus also opens the door to something broader — Corsica without hesitation, northern Sardinia with ease, even Portofino within a well-structured itinerary. For experienced charterers who have already “done” the Riviera circuit, this yacht offers geographical expansion without sacrificing luxury.
Part of that versatility lies in her hybrid propulsion system. Heeus can operate in ‘silent’ mode during certain periods at anchor, on dock departures, or for quiet short-range cruising. Early morning departures feel calmer. Late evening repositioning feels discreet. It’s a subtle but meaningful distinction.
On deck, Heeus is generous in scale. The 92 square-metre sun deck becomes a true social centrepiece — complete with Jacuzzi, bar, dining area and ample sun loungers. It is large enough to host properly without ever feeling crowded. An outside cinema setup on the sun deck transforms warm Mediterranean nights into something memorable.
Below, the 40 square-metre beach club elevates the experience further. This is not a token swim platform. It’s a genuine waterfront lounge, complete with sea platform access, Hammam and steam room. After a morning swim off Cap Ferrat or Bonifacio, that wellness space becomes invaluable.
Heeus also carries a huge tender and toy collection — more extensive than many yachts in this size range. The platform supports exploration. Guests can venture ashore, dive deeper into anchorages, or maintain high-energy afternoons on the water without limitation.
Accommodation is equally flexible. In addition to her primary guest cabins, Heeus features a sixth convertible cabin — ideal for additional guests, staff, security or extra crew. That flexibility often proves useful on longer itineraries.
And despite her explorer capability, Heeus never feels industrial. The yacht balances strength with refinement. At-anchor stabilisers maintain comfort. Upper-deck entertaining flows naturally. Interior spaces remain elegant rather than utilitarian.
For charterers seeking something beyond the predictable Monaco–Saint-Tropez loop, Heeus makes sense. She brings range, presence and thoughtful luxury into one coherent platform.
In a region often defined by speed and spectacle, Heeus introduces depth.
Imperial Princess Beatrice — 40m Princess Yachts
This yacht strikes a confident balance.
Imperial Princess Beatrice, built by Princess Yachts, represents British shipyard precision at superyacht scale. At 40 metres, she delivers proper superyacht proportions while maintaining an approachable, usable feel — something Princess Yachts has consistently achieved across its larger builds.
The pedigree matters. Princess Yachts is known for combining engineering reliability with refined design, and Imperial Princess Beatrice reflects that heritage throughout. Her “World Superyacht Awards” win in 2013 only reinforced what many brokers already understood: this is a yacht built to perform, not simply to impress.
The recent refit work is evident the moment you step onboard. Interiors feel refreshed and carefully considered. Materials are balanced. Layout is intuitive. She accommodates 10 guests in 5 ensuite cabins, offering a configuration that works equally well for families or mixed groups of couples.
Outdoor deck spaces are where this Princess Yachts build truly excels.
The sundeck Jacuzzi naturally draws guests upward in the late afternoon — particularly when anchored off Antibes or berthed stern-to in Monaco. It becomes the preferred vantage point for sunset cocktails and relaxed evenings. The deck layout allows guests to gather without crowding, with multiple lounging and dining areas that feel deliberately spaced.
Fold-out balconies on the main deck introduce a subtle architectural touch, expanding the interior footprint and connecting guests more directly with the sea. It’s a detail that elevates the onboard experience without feeling theatrical.
Operationally, Imperial Princess Beatrice benefits from a professional, long-standing crew of eight. On a 40-metre yacht, that consistency matters. Service feels established rather than rehearsed. Guest movement flows smoothly. Corporate hosting or private family charters are handled with equal confidence.
The inclusion of a chase boat — a SAXDOR 40 GTO with its own captain — adds genuine versatility. Guests can separate itineraries, run ashore independently, or extend water sports activities without interrupting the main yacht’s rhythm. It’s an increasingly valuable feature on the Riviera, where flexibility enhances privacy.
Despite her scale, this Princess Yachts build never feels overwhelming. She remains composed. Balanced. Purposeful.
For those seeking refinement without excess — and the reassurance that comes with a well-executed Princess 40m yacht — Imperial Princess Beatrice remains a dependable and highly capable choice for summer 2026.
Leopard — 34m Leopard
This 34-metre Leopard is a strong all-round Riviera performer — and, notably, she is the unique Leopard of her type fitted with stabilisers at anchor.
That detail alone sets this yacht apart within the Leopard range. Open performance yachts are not always known for at-anchor comfort, but here, stability has been properly addressed. Even when afternoon swell rolls through the anchorage off Cap d’Antibes, the experience remains relaxed.
She is fast and sporty in true Leopard fashion, reaching a top speed of 43 knots. That performance transforms the coastline. Monaco becomes a morning visit rather than a logistical exercise. Saint-Tropez can be a spontaneous decision rather than a commitment.
Based in Antibes, this Leopard is ideally positioned for classic Côte d’Azur itineraries. Departures are straightforward. Repositioning is quick. The geography works in her favour.
Her layout is practical rather than complicated. Open deck living dominates, encouraging guests to remain outside where the Riviera is best experienced. Sun pads are generous. Circulation is easy. Guests can spread out without losing cohesion.
Inside, the chic and modern interior design adds refinement without excess. Clean lines. Contemporary finishes. The atmosphere remains bright and welcoming rather than formal. It’s a yacht designed to be enjoyed, not tiptoed through.
The toy inventory reinforces her active character. A wide selection of water toys ensures the yacht never feels static at anchor. Whether launching Seabobs, paddleboards or tenders, the platform supports high-energy afternoons just as comfortably as relaxed lunches.
For charters focused on simplicity — good cruising, reliable crew service and a capable, fast yacht — this Leopard delivers exactly what’s required.
There’s real value in a yacht that doesn’t overpromise. On a coastline as active and sometimes unpredictable as the Côte d’Azur, ease often defines the experience.
And this Leopard makes it look easy.
Luisa — 47m Heesen
At nearly 48 metres, Luisa enters a different category.
Built by Heesen, Luisa carries the quiet authority that defines the Dutch yard. A Heesen yacht of this scale feels different the moment you step onboard — more composed underfoot, more deliberate in her movement, more assured in her presence. Luisa has weight in the right places. She doesn’t need to announce herself.
Based in Cannes, Luisa is ideally positioned for the South of France season. From Monaco quayside events to long afternoons anchored off Cap d’Antibes, this yacht adapts easily to the rhythm of the Riviera. Her crew is highly familiar with the South of France, Corsica and Sardinia cruising grounds, as well as the choreography required during high-profile dockside events. That regional knowledge elevates the experience.
Her last refit in 2025 left Luisa immaculate. New engines. New stabilisers. Updated systems throughout. She feels mechanically current and exceptionally well presented heading into summer 2026. This Heesen yacht has been maintained with intent.
Interior volume increases noticeably at this size. Luisa’s minimalist interior décor enhances that sense of space — clean lines, neutral tones, no visual noise. The atmosphere is calm and architectural rather than decorative. It’s a yacht designed to be lived in comfortably.
Her spacious decks reinforce that impression. Circulation is fluid. Seating areas feel properly scaled. The beach club becomes a genuine entertainment zone once anchored — not an afterthought, but a true extension of the yacht’s social life.
Luisa is also fitted with a gyro stabiliser that operates both at anchor and while cruising. That consistency matters. Whether running between Cannes and Monaco or settled for the afternoon off Cap Ferrat, the yacht remains steady and composed.
The ability to host larger gatherings while in port adds versatility, particularly during major Monaco or Cannes events. Yet Luisa transitions effortlessly into private cruising mode, offering space and discretion for experienced charterers who simply want more room to breathe.
Compared to mid-30-metre yachts, Luisa feels like a step up because she is. More volume. More deck depth. More comfort. And with Heesen engineering beneath her, that scale never feels unwieldy.
For charterers combining leisure with hospitality — or preferring a yacht that offers genuine space and composure — Luisa stands apart.
A Heesen yacht based in Cannes, refitted in 2025 and presented in immaculate condition for 2026, Luisa is one of the most complete yachts available on the Riviera this season.
The French Riviera is often described as a destination, but for those who travel by sea it is something far more compelling: a continuous maritime landscape where geography, culture and glamour unfold in a sequence of exquisite arrivals. From the Italian border to the wild peninsulas west of Saint-Tropez, the Côte d’Azur offers an unparalleled density of beautiful anchorages, world-class marinas and historic towns whose markets, galleries and boutiques sit mere steps from the quay. For yacht owners and charter guests alike, this is not simply a coastline but a cruising ground — one that rewards patience, local knowledge and a willingness to drift between spectacle and serenity.
Menton — Citrus Groves and Quiet Elegance
At the eastern edge of the Riviera, Menton provides a gentle introduction — a border town with a distinctly Italian soul. Just minutes from the frontier, its language, cuisine, and architecture carry a strong Ligurian influence, blending seamlessly with French refinement. Approaching from Italy, the coastline softens into pastel tiers rising above a calm, protected bay.
Sheltered by the Maritime Alps, Menton enjoys one of the mildest microclimates on the Mediterranean. This rare climate has long drawn visitors in search of winter sun — among them Queen Victoria, who favored Menton as a seasonal retreat. The gentle air produces lush subtropical gardens and the lemons that have become the town’s emblem.
Menton is celebrated for its citrus heritage, culminating each year in the vibrant Fête du Citron, when towering sculptures and elaborate floats fashioned from oranges and lemons transform the waterfront into a theatrical display of color and scent.
While Port Garavan accommodates visiting yachts, many captains prefer to anchor offshore in settled weather, offering uninterrupted views of the old town and quick tender access to shore. Menton’s pleasures are understated: morning visits to the covered market for candied citrus and olive oil, quiet walks through Baroque streets, and time spent at the Musée Jean Cocteau Collection Séverin Wunderman, where modern architecture frames the sea like a stage set.
No visit, however, would be complete without reserving a table at Mirazur, dramatically perched above the Mediterranean at the edge of town. Under the direction of Mauro Colagreco, Mirazur has earned global acclaim for its refined, garden-driven cuisine — once ranked among the world’s finest restaurants. Colagreco’s cooking reflects Menton itself: a seamless dialogue between France and Italy, guided by the rhythms of the moon and the seasons. Much of the produce is drawn from the restaurant’s own terraced gardens, where citrus, herbs, and vegetables thrive in the same luminous climate that defines the town. Dining here is less a meal than a meditation on place — a sensory distillation of sea air, mountain shelter, and Riviera light.
For those seeking a Riviera experience without crowds or ostentation, Menton feels almost restorative — a place to begin or end a cruise in contemplative calm, where France and Italy meet in sunlight and citrus fragrance.
Monaco — Engineering Meets Extravagance
Entry into Port Hercule is among the most theatrical manoeuvres in Mediterranean yachting, especially at night when terraces glitter above the waterline and the surrounding cliffs shimmer with light. The port itself is framed by imposing apartment towers that rise steeply from the quay, their stacked balconies forming a dramatic amphitheatre around the basin.
For larger yachts or those seeking a quieter berth, Port de Fontvieille offers an alternative on Monaco’s western edge. More sheltered and intimate in scale, it provides efficient access to the principality while retaining a slightly calmer atmosphere than the spectacle of Port Hercule.
On the western side of the main harbour, the sweeping decks of the Yacht Club de Monaco, designed by Norman Foster, project confidently over the water. Conceived to resemble the layered decks of a superyacht, the building has become a contemporary architectural landmark — a symbol of Monaco’s modern maritime identity.
Each September, the harbour reaches its crescendo during the Monaco Yacht Show, when some of the world’s most exceptional superyachts line the quays. In late May, the Monaco Grand Prix transforms the entire principality into a circuit of roaring engines and floating hospitality suites. During race week, berths are secured years in advance and command a significant premium.
Outside of the Grand Prix period, however, Monaco is surprisingly accessible. With proper advance planning, reservations in Port Hercule or Fontvieille are generally straightforward, and compared with other headline Riviera ports, berthing fees can represent notably good value — particularly given the immediate access to world-class dining, nightlife, technical services, and security.
The port’s appeal lies in proximity: within minutes of disembarking, guests can reach the Casino de Monte-Carlo, couture boutiques, private clubs and some of Europe’s most celebrated restaurants. Among them, the recently renovated Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo houses Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, where Alain Ducasse presents a cuisine of Riviera precision and Mediterranean depth. Dining beneath its gilded ceilings is an experience as emblematic of Monaco as the harbour itself — exacting, elegant, and unapologetically grand. Technical services, provisioning, and security are equally world-class, making Monaco a logistical anchor for larger vessels.
Yet beyond commerce lies history. The narrow streets around the Prince’s Palace of Monaco recall a pre-modern principality, their ochre façades and quiet squares offering a striking contrast to the glass towers below. Just along the cliff edge, the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco rises dramatically above the sea, combining scientific gravitas with panoramic maritime views. Its terraces, suspended high above the water, offer one of the most commanding perspectives on the Riviera coastline.
Many captains combine a night in port with days at anchor nearby, balancing spectacle with privacy. Where Menton feels restorative and understated, Monaco is kinetic and vertical — a concentrated spectacle of glass, steel, and polished hulls, where arrival itself is part of the performance.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer — Belle Époque Refinement
Tucked between Monaco and Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu-sur-Mer embodies Riviera elegance without fanfare. Its marina is efficient and well-protected, and the town itself retains the refined atmosphere of the Belle Époque, when European aristocracy wintered here.
The graceful Casino de Beaulieu-sur-Mer adds a note of old-world glamour along the waterfront, while the magnificent Royal Riviera Hotel remains one of the coast’s most discreet grand addresses, its terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. Nearby, the enclave of Petite Afrique is known for its lush microclimate and some of the area’s most striking private villas, set amid tropical gardens and dramatic cliffs.
The standout attraction is the Villa Kérylos, an extraordinary recreation of an ancient Greek noble house overlooking the sea. Nearby beaches and waterfront restaurants offer understated luxury, while boutique shopping leans toward artisanal jewellery, resort wear and antiques rather than global brands.
Beaulieu is particularly valued as a provisioning stop — excellent produce, bakeries and wine merchants all within easy walking distance of the quay.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat — Peninsula of Discretion
Encircled by water on three sides, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has long attracted royalty and financiers seeking privacy. Home to the legendary Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat and some of the most expensive private properties in the world, the peninsula remains a byword for discretion. Its anchorages — particularly on the western side facing Villefranche-sur-Mer — are among the most sheltered on the coast, with pine forests descending to rocky coves of extraordinary clarity.
The harbour is intimate, favouring elegance over scale. Ashore, the celebrated Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild remains one of the Riviera’s cultural jewels, its themed gardens and pink façade overlooking the sea in scenes that seem composed for painters rather than tourists.
Beautiful coastal walks trace the perimeter of the Cap, winding past hidden beaches and grand estates, with panoramic views at every turn. Circumnavigating the peninsula by tender reveals secluded coves and magnificent villas concealed behind umbrella pines. Saint-Jean rewards those who prefer quiet mornings at anchor, private lunches aboard and evenings free from the performative glamour of larger ports.
Villefranche-sur-Mer — A Harbour of Rare Depth
Few natural anchorages rival the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Deep, sheltered and visually stunning, it accommodates some of the world’s largest yachts — and frequently vast cruise ships — while maintaining a surprising sense of tranquillity. From the deck, the town appears as a cascade of ochre and terracotta descending gracefully to the water’s edge.
Historically a strategic naval base, Villefranche retains an air of quiet authority. The 16th-century Citadel of Saint-Elmepresides over the harbour, while the old town’s vaulted passageways provide welcome shade during long waterfront lunches. Along the seafront, the charming Welcome Hotel offers front-row views across the bay, its faded Riviera elegance perfectly suited to the setting. Nearby, La Mère Germaine remains a favourite for exemplary seafood served just steps from the quay.
With Nice and Monaco only a short drive away, Villefranche is a favoured anchorage for guests seeking accessibility without surrendering privacy.
Nice — Cultural and Commercial Heart
As the Riviera’s largest city, Nice offers a confident urban counterpoint to its smaller, more secluded neighbours. Port Lympia accommodates visiting yachts, though many prefer anchoring offshore when conditions permit. The reward is immediate access to a city layered with culture, serious retail and ambitious gastronomy.
The Cours Saleya market remains a sensory spectacle of flowers, seasonal produce and Provençal specialities — ideal for provisioning — while the excellent food market in the Libération neighbourhood offers a more local, everyday authenticity. Cultural life runs deep: the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Musée Matisse reflect the region’s artistic heritage, and the contemporary MAMAC adds a bold modern dimension.
Near the port, Restaurant JAN is led by chef-owner Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, who began his culinary career as a yacht chef — a background that still informs his precision and produce-driven approach. Grand hotels and polished boutiques underscore Nice’s metropolitan confidence. Nice is less about seclusion than stimulation — a place where nightlife, dining and promenades continue long after smaller towns along the coast have gone dark.
Antibes — Medieval Charm Meets Superyacht Scale
Between Nice and Cannes lies Antibes, home to Port Vauban, Europe’s largest marina for superyachts. Approaching the harbour reveals an extraordinary juxtaposition: gleaming vessels moored beside ancient stone ramparts, the medieval skyline rising behind a forest of masts.
Within the walls, the old town feels timeless. Narrow streets host artisan shops, wine merchants and the bustling Marché Provençal, where chefs source impeccable seasonal produce. The Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, underscores the area’s artistic legacy and enduring creative pull.
Nearby Cap d’Antibes offers excellent anchorages on both sides of the peninsula, allowing flexibility according to wind conditions. Coastal paths wind past secluded coves and legendary villas, reinforcing the area’s reputation for discreet wealth. The iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc remains its most storied address, famously hosting film stars during the Cannes Film Festival.
Just beyond, Juan-les-Pins is well worth visiting for its sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, as well as the renowned Jazz à Juan held each July — a highlight of the Riviera summer calendar.
Cannes — Glamour as Infrastructure
Approaching Cannes, the coastline opens into a broad, sunlit bay anchored by the palm-lined Croisette. During major festivals, the harbour becomes a floating metropolis of superyachts, each functioning as residence, venue or social club.
Yet Cannes offers remarkable cruising variety beyond its famous Croisette. Just offshore, the Îles de Lérins provide pristine anchorages among pine forests and monastic ruins, with clear, calm waters that remain inviting even when the mainland is at its busiest. On Île Sainte-Marguerite, La Guérite has become a Riviera institution — a refined yet festive lunch destination where yachts anchor just offshore and afternoons drift effortlessly into evening.
Many itineraries revolve around this duality: mornings spent swimming in silence beneath forested hills, afternoons ashore in Cannes browsing boutiques or attending events, and evenings entertaining aboard as the coastline begins to glitter.
Théoule-sur-Mer — The Estérel’s Fiery Coast
West of Cannes, the Riviera’s polished façade gives way to dramatic geology. Théoule-sur-Mer sits within the Estérel Massif, where volcanic rock forms jagged cliffs of deep red plunging into turquoise water.
Navigation here is visually spectacular, particularly at sunset when the cliffs appear illuminated from within. Anchorages are smaller but numerous, rewarding careful exploration. The town itself is understated, with discreet restaurants and beaches favoured by locals rather than paparazzi.
For many yacht owners, Théoule represents the Riviera’s wild side — a reminder that nature still dominates beyond the marquee ports.
Saint-Tropez — Myth and Reality
Few places carry the cultural weight of Saint-Tropez. Once a quiet fishing village, it evolved into an artists’ enclave and later a global symbol of summer excess. The port today is a theatre of maritime design, from classic sailing yachts to futuristic superstructures.
In and around Saint-Tropez, beach culture has become an institution. On Pampelonne Beach, the legendary Club 55 — often described as the original Riviera beach club — still sets the tone for understated glamour, while Bagatelle and Loulou bring a more contemporary, fashion-led energy to long seaside lunches.
Yet beyond the spectacle lies authenticity. The Place des Lices market remains one of Provence’s finest, its plane trees shading stalls laden with produce, cheeses and local specialities. The Musée de l’Annonciade preserves the town’s artistic heritage, recalling the painters who first drew attention to the singular Mediterranean light.
For those seeking greater privacy, many yachts choose to anchor in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez rather than in the crowded harbour, relying on tenders to access beach clubs and restaurants along Pampelonne — enjoying the vibrancy ashore while retreating to calm waters by night.
Evenings ashore blend glamour with village intimacy — pétanque in shaded squares followed by dinners that stretch late into the night.
Ramatuelle and Pampelonne — Beaches as Destinations
Just south of Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle overlooks the legendary Pampelonne coastline. Here, the Riviera’s beach culture reaches its zenith: long arcs of sand lined with refined beach clubs, each with dedicated mooring zones offshore.
Anchoring in the gulf allows easy tender access to lunch reservations that often extend into sunset. Despite the social energy, the surrounding countryside remains pastoral, with vineyards and hilltop villages offering respite from the shoreline’s intensity.
Cruising the Côte d’Azur — A Continuous Narrative
What distinguishes the French Riviera is not any single port but the seamless progression between them. Distances are short, yet each destination feels distinct — Italianate tranquillity giving way to princely precision, medieval charm to cinematic glamour, rugged wilderness to orchestrated luxury.
Weather patterns, seasonal crowds and personal preference shape itineraries. Some guests prioritise social calendars; others seek secluded anchorages accessible only by sea. The true luxury lies in flexibility — the ability to depart a crowded harbour at dusk and wake in an empty bay framed by pine and rock.
For the affluent traveller, a French Riviera yacht charter endures because it offers more than beauty. It provides continuity: a cultural corridor where art, commerce and leisure have intertwined for centuries, now experienced from the privileged vantage of the water. Markets supply provisions, galleries offer intellectual ballast, and each harbour becomes a stage for arrival and departure.
To cruise here is to engage with a living tradition of maritime elegance. As evening falls and the coastline glows in the last light, the towns appear less like destinations and more like constellations — points of brilliance along a shore that has defined European luxury for generations.
Few yachts in the world can claim to have altered the course of social history. Fewer still can say they hosted royalty, presidents, movie stars and titans of industry — not as fleeting visitors, but as intimate guests aboard a floating palace.
Christina O is not merely a yacht. She is an era.
Stretching over 99 metres and accommodating up to 34 guests in extraordinary comfort, Christina O is today available for charter through Bespoke Yacht Charter, offering a rare opportunity to inhabit one of the most storied vessels ever built. But to understand her magic, you must begin long before Mediterranean sunsets and Champagne receptions — in the dark days of war.
From Warship to World Stage
Christina O began life in 1943 as HMCS Stormont, a Canadian River-class frigate built for the Battle of the Atlantic. She escorted convoys through hostile waters and played a role in Allied operations during the Second World War, including the Normandy landings. It is a remarkable foundation for what would become the ultimate symbol of post-war glamour.
In 1954, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis purchased the decommissioned warship for a modest sum. Where others saw scrap metal, Onassis saw possibility. He embarked on a visionary transformation that would redefine luxury yachting forever.
At the time, private yachts were elegant but restrained — refined extensions of aristocratic life. Onassis had something entirely different in mind. He wanted spectacle. He wanted theatre. He wanted the world’s most powerful figures gathered not in boardrooms or palaces, but on his deck.
The conversion took years and vast sums of money. The result was not simply a yacht, but the first true superyacht of the modern era — bold, unapologetically lavish, and designed for entertaining on a global scale.
He named her Christina, after his beloved daughter.
The Golden Age of Floating Glamour
Through the 1950s and 1960s, Christina became the epicentre of international high society.
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was a frequent guest, often spending extended cruises aboard. He painted, wrote and relaxed on deck, forming a close friendship with Onassis. A library onboard still honours him.
In 1956, the yacht hosted the wedding reception of Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Hollywood actress Grace Kelly — an event that cemented both Monaco’s modern fairytale and Christina’s place in royal lore.
American President John F. Kennedy cruised aboard, as did his wife Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, whose later marriage to Onassis would intertwine American political royalty with Greek shipping power in one of the most talked-about unions of the 20th century.
Opera legend Maria Callas was another defining presence aboard. Her relationship with Onassis was passionate and complex, and Christina’s salons were witness to both romance and heartbreak.
Hollywood icons including Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra stepped onto her decks. Industrialists closed deals in her bars. Political futures were discussed in her lounges. The yacht was neutral ground — private, secure, and infinitely seductive.
Deals were struck, alliances formed, relationships ignited. Christina O was not simply observing history. She was hosting it.
Legendary Spaces: Theatre at Sea
Much of Christina O’s mythology lies in her interiors.
Ari’s Bar is perhaps the most famous. Its bar stools are upholstered in whale foreskin leather — a provocative detail that perfectly captures Onassis’s audacious personality. The bar itself gleams with warm wood and polished brass, designed as a stage for late-night diplomacy and decadence. It remains one of the most talked-about features in yachting.
Then there is the swimming pool. Lined with a mosaic depicting a Minoan bull, the pool floor hydraulically rises to transform into a dance floor. It is pure mid-century genius — a single space shifting from sunlit leisure to glittering evening gala. Few yachts, before or since, have incorporated such theatrical ingenuity.
The main salon remains richly atmospheric, blending classic detailing with careful modern restoration. There is grandeur here, but not ostentation. It feels layered with memory — a room designed for conversation rather than display.
The Onassis Suite remains one of the most requested cabins on any charter yacht in the world. It is less about square footage and more about presence — about sleeping where history unfolded. Across her 17 staterooms, each cabin has its own character, combining vintage detailing with modern en-suite comfort.
Decline and Resurrection
After Onassis’s death in 1975, Christina entered a quieter chapter. She was gifted to the Greek government and renamed Argo, serving briefly as a presidential yacht. Yet without the charisma and relentless hosting of her original owner, she lost momentum.
By the late 1990s, her condition reflected years of limited use. But crucially, her bones — the strength of her wartime build — remained sound.
A private owner recognised her irreplaceable legacy and undertook an extraordinary, multi-year restoration. This was not a cosmetic facelift but a comprehensive rebuild. Engineers modernised her mechanical systems. Naval architects ensured she met contemporary safety standards. Designers carefully restored her iconic spaces without stripping away authenticity.
The objective was delicate: preserve her soul while allowing her to operate as a fully competitive modern superyacht.
When she re-emerged as Christina O — the “O” added in tribute to Onassis — she was once again ready to command attention on the world stage.
Christina O Today: A Living Legend for Charter
To step aboard Christina O today is to experience something no newly launched yacht can replicate: narrative depth.
And yet she is far from a museum piece.
She accommodates up to 34 guests in 17 beautifully appointed staterooms, attended by a professional crew of around 38. This scale makes her uniquely suited to large family gatherings, milestone celebrations, corporate retreats or destination weddings. Few yachts of comparable pedigree can host such numbers while maintaining intimacy and flow.
Her deck spaces are expansive. Sun loungers line the upper decks. Alfresco dining areas are configured for long Mediterranean lunches or candlelit dinners under the stars. Lounges invite quiet conversation as coastlines drift by.
Modern stabilisation systems ensure comfort at anchor and underway. Updated communications and Wi-Fi connectivity provide seamless access to the outside world — if guests choose to engage with it. A fleet of tenders and water toys brings contemporary adventure to an otherwise classic platform.
Onboard chefs deliver cuisine tailored to preference — whether that means formal multi-course gastronomy or relaxed family-style meals on deck. Service is polished yet personal, reflecting decades of charter expertise.
What distinguishes Christina O, however, is atmosphere. There is a warmth here that cannot be fabricated. Timber panelling glows softly at dusk. Polished brass catches the Mediterranean sun. Spaces feel lived-in, storied, human.
Cruising the Mediterranean in Iconic Style
There is perhaps no more fitting setting for Christina O than the Mediterranean — the waters where she first defined floating glamour.
Embark in Monaco and trace the Côte d’Azur, where she once hosted royalty and statesmen. Cruise to Portofino, Capri or the Greek Isles, retracing routes familiar to Onassis himself. Anchor off Mykonos for a sunset cocktail, or drift quietly in a secluded Ionian bay.
Each itinerary becomes layered with resonance. You are not simply exploring destinations — you are revisiting chapters of a shared cultural memory.
Yet the experience remains entirely contemporary. Morning swims off the stern. Afternoon paddleboarding. Evening celebrations beneath an open sky. The rising mosaic dance floor can still transform the pool deck into a glittering venue for music and champagne.
Christina O adapts effortlessly to the rhythm of modern charter life while retaining her unmistakable identity.
Why Christina O Remains Unrivalled
The global fleet of superyachts grows larger and more technologically advanced each year. Many are faster. Many are more minimalist. Some boast larger spas or beach clubs.
But none possess what Christina O embodies: continuity.
She bridges war and peace. Industry and art. Politics and performance. She carries within her steel hull the echoes of conversations that shaped the 20th century.
Chartering her is not about novelty. It is about significance.
You dine where Churchill once reflected. You dance where royalty celebrated. You wake where legends dreamed. And yet you do so with every comfort expected of a modern luxury yacht.
This duality — heritage and hospitality — makes Christina O extraordinary.
Becoming Part of the Story
Luxury is often defined by exclusivity. But true rarity lies in experience that cannot be replicated.
Perhaps you will host your own celebration on the mosaic dance floor. Perhaps you will gather family across her decks for a milestone birthday. Perhaps you will simply cruise quietly, absorbing the atmosphere of a vessel that has witnessed so much.
When you disembark, you leave not just with photographs, but with perspective. You will have inhabited a piece of living history — not preserved behind glass, but alive and evolving.
The Final Word
Christina O endures because she represents something beyond wealth. She represents vision.
Aristotle Onassis imagined a floating world where power, culture and pleasure converged. Against all odds, that world still exists — restored, refined and ready for a new generation.
For those seeking a charter experience that transcends luxury and enters legend, there is only one Christina O.
There are coffee table books, and then there are Assouline books — weighty, gilt-edged declarations of taste that signal a certain fluency in culture and travel. The French Riviera in the 1920s sits confidently in the latter category: part social history, part visual reverie, and entirely devoted to the myth-making decade that transformed the Côte d’Azur into a playground of modern glamour.
Written by Xavier Girard, the volume explores the moment when the Riviera ceased to be merely a winter refuge for aristocrats and became something more electric — a stage for artists, writers, exiles, and eccentrics who would define the aesthetic of the Jazz Age.
A Riviera Reimagined
The 1920s on the French Riviera were not simply about sunshine and sea. They were about reinvention. After the trauma of the First World War, Europe’s creative elite sought escape — and found it between Nice and Cap d’Antibes.
Girard traces the migration of luminaries such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Zelda Fitzgerald, whose summers in Antibeswould inspire Tender Is the Night. We meet Pablo Picasso working in the luminous southern light, and Coco Chanel, who helped redefine Riviera style with her relaxed, sun-kissed modernity.
The book excels in showing how these figures were not isolated celebrities but part of a cross-pollinating cultural ecosystem. Villas became salons; beach clubs became ateliers; casinos became laboratories for social change. The Riviera became less a location and more a mood.
The Visual Language of Glamour
As expected from Assouline, the imagery is sumptuous. Archival photography — sun-bleached beaches, striped parasols, linen suits, motorcars gleaming along the Promenade des Anglais — carries as much narrative weight as the text.
The Riviera appears both idyllic and avant-garde. We see the emergence of bronzed skin as a status symbol (thanks, in no small part, to Chanel), the architectural modernism creeping into seaside villas, and the birth of a leisure culture that feels startlingly contemporary. One could argue that the influencer aesthetic of today owes something to these early Riviera myth-makers.
What elevates the book is its pacing. Rather than overwhelm with dates and footnotes, Girard allows atmosphere to lead. This is history by immersion. The text feels curated, not academic — an editorial approach that suits Assouline’s audience perfectly.
Style as Social Revolution
Perhaps the book’s most compelling theme is how the Riviera in the 1920s became a crucible for social experimentation. Hemlines rose. Gender norms blurred. Americans mingled with Europeans in ways that unsettled old hierarchies. The region’s hotels and villas became stages for a new kind of freedom.
The Riviera was no longer just aristocratic — it was artistic, bohemian, entrepreneurial. The Jazz Age did not merely pass through; it embedded itself in the coastline’s identity.
Girard subtly underscores how this decade established the blueprint for modern luxury tourism. The private villa culture, the grand hotels, the ritual of the summer season — all took on their contemporary form here. In that sense, the book is not nostalgic but foundational. It explains why the Riviera still carries such mythic weight today.
Design & Presence
Physically, The French Riviera in the 1920s is everything one expects from Assouline: thick matte pages, impeccable colour reproduction, and a spine worthy of prominent display. It is a book designed not only to be read but to be seen.
Placed in a drawing room in Cap d’Antibes or a London townhouse, it functions as quiet signalling — a reminder of the lineage behind Riviera glamour. It pairs particularly well with other titles in Assouline’s travel series, but stands strongly on its own.
Final Verdict
This is not a dense academic chronicle of the interwar years. Nor does it attempt to dissect political or economic undercurrents in depth. Instead, it captures a feeling — the golden shimmer of a coastline discovering itself as the epicentre of modern leisure.
For readers drawn to Riviera culture, design history, or the mythology of the Jazz Age, The French Riviera in the 1920sdelivers precisely what it promises: a beautifully produced immersion into a decade that defined glamour.
In the end, the book reinforces a simple truth — the Riviera was never merely a place. In the 1920s, it became an idea. And thanks to Assouline, that idea remains exquisitely bound.
The Mediterranean city of Cannes is a phenomenal place to charter a yacht. With a rich culture of gastronomy and art and a high-end scene fit for royalty, Cannes is one of the best places on earth to dine, shop, and party by the glittering sea. When it’s time to chill out, there are quiet islands, decadent day spas and flowery hill villages to explore, while adventure calls from the surrounding hills.
Here are 11 things to do on a Cannes yacht charter:
1. Live it up above the city at a Rooftop Bar
A rooftop terrace is the place to be at sunset in Cannes, the balmy air filled with music and the rising moon throwing its early silver on the far-below sea. Considered Cannes’ finest rooftop bar, 360 at the Radisson Blu is a gathering ground of the beautiful people, with a vast expanse of terrace space dotted with low lounges, and glass balustrades affording a magnificent view across the Bay of Cannes. Located at the port right next to the Palais des Festivals, Five Senses is a more intimate rooftop bar complete with restaurant and infinity pool, offering a gorgeous view over the old town. The infamous Baoili club also has a swanky rooftop bar, Cloud Nine, which overlooks the port.
2. Bliss out at a Cannes Day Spa
Cannes, unsurprisingly, has quite a few contenders in the ‘best spa’ category, and the very finest tend to be associated with the grand hotels along the Croisette.
Les Thermes Marins deCannes is a 2700sqm day spa set right on the seafront at the Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel and specialises in thalassotherapy, with a dizzying range of sea mineral treatments and multiple pools, including a spectacular outdoor seawater pool overlooking the Mediterranean.
The Hotel Martinez is legendary for its art deco glamour and long history of hosting celebrity royalty (And real royalty, for that matter.) It’s unsurprising to find out that the hotel’s L.Raphael Spa is ultra-high-end, with 42 plush, low lit rooms and a menu featuring treatments such as diamond dust and caviar facials.
3. Lunch surrounded by the masters in a Medieval Village
Dragging yourself away from your yacht for a few hours will be richly rewarded. The perched village of Saint Paul de Vence is considered one of the most beautiful in France, with its high walls sheltering stone laneways wreathed in ivy and bougainvillea. An artist’s colony since the 1920s drawing artists such as Picasso, this hill village has gone upscale in recent years, with gastronomic restaurants and art galleries aplenty. There are a number of excellent places to eat, but for atmosphere and art history, La Colombe d’Or is simply unmissable. Take a table in the dining room among a priceless collection of works by old customers such as Picasso, Matisse and Chagall, who paid their restaurant bills here in paintings.
4. Dance like everybody’s watching at an A-list Nightclub
The nightlife in Cannes is famously good, with billionaires and supermodels gracing the dancefloor under the decks of some of the world’s biggest DJ acts. Expect VIP tables and champagne spraying mayhem in peak season. If you’re into super-clubs, upscale Gotha is for you with its 2500 person capacity and multiple areas including a sea terrace by the beach. But if you’re after a more intimate celebrity scene, Baoli is more your game, with Balinese daybeds under the waving palms and an indoor club that drips Hollywood glamour. For an epic night of cabaret, Medusa is hard to beat.
5. Play blackjack under the chandeliers at Casino Le Croisette
With a long 20th century history as Europe’s casino capital, Cannes has three casinos to choose from: Casino Le Croisette, Casino Les Princes, and Cannes 3.14.
All are targeted at the high-end market, but if it’s grandeur you’re after, you’ll want a seat at the high-stakes table at the Casino Le Croisette, situated at the Festival de Palais—home of the Cannes Film Festival.
6. Float through the idyllic Cannes Islands
The perfect antidote to a night of Riviera indulgence is a restorative day during your yacht charter in the Cannes Islands. Just a short cruise from the Croisette lie the serene Îles de Lérins — a small, tranquil cluster of islands where time seems to slow to the rhythm of the sea. Rocky blue-green coves shimmer in the sunlight, pine forests perfume the warm air, and with no cars and only a tiny resident population, the atmosphere feels wonderfully untouched. For yacht charter guests, it is an effortless escape: anchor in crystalline water, step ashore by tender, and discover a Mediterranean landscape that feels almost lost to memory.
Spend the morning swimming straight from the yacht into translucent shallows, snorkelling along rocky inlets, or laying out a relaxed picnic beneath umbrella pines. On Île Sainte-Marguerite, wander shaded forest trails before visiting the historic Fort Royal, where the real Man in the Iron Mask was once imprisoned. The island’s natural beauty and quiet pathways make it ideal for unhurried exploration between swims.
For lunch, step into the laid-back glamour of La Guérite, an iconic island restaurant beloved by yacht charter guests. Set among the pines with sweeping views across the Bay of Cannes, La Guérite pairs refined Mediterranean cuisine with an effortlessly chic, celebratory atmosphere. Fresh seafood, vibrant Provençal flavours and chilled rosé define long, sun-drenched lunches that often stretch blissfully into the afternoon — a quintessential Riviera experience reached best by boat.
Across the narrow channel on Île Saint-Honorat, discover the peaceful Lérins Abbey, where monks have lived and worked for centuries. Stroll past vineyards still tended by the monastic community, explore ancient chapels along the shoreline, and pause for a quiet swim in a secluded cove before returning to your waiting yacht.
As your yacht charter glides back toward Cannes in the late afternoon light, the mainland’s glamour slowly comes back into view. You return sun-kissed, salt-tinged and utterly refreshed — having experienced a side of the French Riviera that remains authentic, natural and beautifully understated, just minutes from the red carpets and bright lights.
On a yacht charter in Cannes you’re spoilt for choice, whether you want to stick close to the coast or head into the rolling foothills. Laid out right by the sea at neighbouring Mandelieu-la-Napoule is the enchantingly pretty Old Course, designed in 1891 by a Russian Grand Duke, where the course even includes a ferry ride over a river. Up in the hills away from the coast you’ll find the excellent Golf Country Club de Cannes Mougins as well as the spectacular Royal Mougins: a par 71 masterpiece designed by Robert Van Hagge.
8. Shop for Haute Couture
With its magnificent flagship couture stores along the Croisette and famous ‘Carre d’Or’ (golden square), there’s a reason Cannes is so famous for shopping. Spend a happy afternoon trying on Gucci and Dior, shop for jewellery in the Carre d’or, and fill your bags with fine chocolates and cheeses from the exquisite chocolatiers and delicatessens along Rue d’Antibes. For a bustling glimpse of local life and the wonderful produce and flowers of Provence, visit the covered market at Marche Forville.
9. Get the heart racing with some outdoor adventure
For all its glamour and gastronomy, the French Riviera is also an adventurer’s playground, its hills riddled with mountain-biking trails and deep limestone canyons. Your choices are near endless for active pursuits in this part of the world, whether you’re rock-climbing climbing high above your yacht up the cliffs of the Calanques, cycling world-class road routes into the Alps Maritimes, or bungee jumping above snow-melt rapids in the Gorge du Verdon. Some of these activities will take you on a day trip away from Cannes, but there are also plenty of adventures around Cannes itself, whether that’s kitesurfing or mountain-biking the red rock hills of the Esterel.
10. Beach Clubs
Passing a day in a Cannes beach club is one of life’s more indulgent moments, listening to the gentle lap of the water and the rustle of ice in a silver champagne bucket as the waiter pulls out a bottle of blush-pink rose.While the lunch scene is pretty chilled out, the energy rises as the summer afternoons wear on into the dusky night.
There’s a lengthy list of Cannes beach clubs, but here a few standouts for the yachting set.
The newly refurbished Barrière Le Majestic Beach has always been a favourite with the well-heeled but it’s even better since 3 Michelin-star chef Mauro Colagreco opened up Bfire in 2019, offering up Italian-Argentinian wood-fired deliciousness to its beach club clientele.
Meanwhile, the ever-popular Barrière Le Gray d’Albion Beach has been overhauled to become the Mademoiselle Gray Plage Barriere, offering gourmet cuisine and a fun, bohemian vibe.
La Plage du Martinez is the quintessential blue and white Mediterranean dream, and continues to be the place to be seen year-on-year in Cannes. Charter guests with children will be warmly welcomed on weekends with the Family Beach Brunch.
La Mome Plage was a breakout newcomer to the Cannes beach club scene in 2015, proving they could go toe-to-toe with the established players.
11. Michelin Stars
Cannes rolls out the red carpet for gourmands, with an impressive list of fine dining restaurants. As with the city’s day spas, the very best are found in the grounds of Cannes’ most sumptuous hotels. The most sought-after table in town is at the 2 starred La Palme d’Or at Hotel Martinez, where creative gastronomy is served up in a spectacular art deco setting. Park 45 at the Grand Hotel is another gastronomic restaurant favoured by the Michelin Guide, with an elegant dining room and an enchanting garden terrace by the sea.
This list represents only a small fraction of the fantastic things to do on a yacht charter in Cannes. The best luxury yacht charters are created with local knowledge, and Bespoke Yacht Charter has a wealth of experience in the Cannes charter scene.
The first signs of spring are just around the corner, which means a plethora of world-class events will soon be arriving on the French Riviera. This idyllic area has long been the go-to destination for the world’s wealthiest, luring in the jet-set crowd with its sublime restaurants, high-end boutiques and refined beach clubs. Indeed, this exclusive area is home to the finest luxury villas to rent on the Cote d’Azur. Conveniently located on one of the most desirable coastlines, these luxury villas are perfect for a spring escape.
However, one of the French Riviera’s major draws is its calendar of year-round luxury events. April through to June are the best months to visit the French Riviera as they are the pinnacle of the 2022 spring social calendar. So, if you are planning a get-away to the Cote d’Azur in 2022, read on to discover our definitive guide to the French Riviera’s 2022 events.
The best French Riviera 2022 events
Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix
Arguably the most anticipated Formula 1 event of the year, the legendary Monaco Grand Prix is a must-see French Riviera 2022 event. From May 26 to 29, 2022, the streets of Monaco are transformed into one of the most exciting race tracks globally. The world’s most talented racing drivers make more than 78 laps of the 3.3-kilometre circuit through the hairpin streets of the principality.
This race is a delight for Formula 1 fans and those who wish to immerse themselves in the party atmosphere. Watch the race from one of the luxury yachts moored in Port Hercules or one of the dedicated grandstands for the best views. One of the oldest and most prestigious car races globally, the Monaco Grand Prix is not to be missed.
The most glamorous French Riviera’s 2022 event will be bringing another cascade of A-listers to the South of France for the 75th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. For 12 days, starting May 17 to 28, 2022, the chic city of Cannes is transformed from a quiet seaside resort into the densest concentration of film industry activity in the world. The best way to embrace the hustle and bustle and see which celebrities you can spot around the town is to head to Cannes’ famed La Croisette.
Alternatively, head to the Palais, home to all the major screenings during the Cannes Film Festival. While the Palais screenings are only accessible to badge holders, it is not unheard of for particularly well-dressed visitors to be given one of these coveted tickets if the spaces have not been filled. So, put on your best gown or tux and get ready to walk the famous red steps.
For prime access to this iconic event, make the most of exclusive Cap Villas accommodation in Villefranche-sur-Mer or Beaulieu-sur-Mer for an idyllic spring retreat.
From May 19 to 21, 2022, the Longines Global Champions Tour will return to the chic French Riviera town of Ramatuelle, Saint-Tropez, for the 8th edition of the Longines Athina Onassis Horse Show. This fantastic three-day show jumping event is set to take place right on the Mediterranean shores of Pampelonne Beach and is expected to draw in hundreds of passionate spectators. With a total of €600,000 in prize money, the French Riviera’s 2022 event is guaranteed to create an electric atmosphere.
Combining old-world glamour with top-level sport, the events world-class facilities are fit for the occasion, including the main arena for the competitions, a warm-up arena, a village, a VIP area, restaurants, bars, shops, and more. Ticket holders are also treated to front-row seats along with finely crafted Italian dishes, delicious beverage options, and top-quality service at the Global Champions Lounge at the Longines Athina Onassis Horse Show.
To make the most of this glamorous event and the French Riviera’s illustrious charms, rent a luxury villa in Ramatuelle, complete with beautiful interiors and world-class amenities.
After the missed edition in 2020, the ATP Monte Carlo Rolex Masters will reopen its doors from April 9 to 17, 2022. This superb French Riviera 2022 event is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments globally, bringing together the top 56 players on clay in a knockout tournament with six rounds.
The Monte-Carlo Country Club is located on the shore of the Mediterranean and features superb panoramic views of the glistening blue sea. Several levels of terraces descend to the intimate Center Court, one of the most beautiful settings in tennis. Visitors can also enjoy the Super Category Courtside seats or upgrade to VIP Loge Box seats with access to VIP hospitality areas and VIP restaurants onsite for an elevated tennis experience.
There’s nothing quite like staying in one of the French Riviera’s luxury villas for a genuinely luxurious Côte d’Azur experience. From here, you will be within easy reach of these exceptional French Riviera 2022 events, as well as a plethora of other world-class offerings.
So, which luxury French Riviera 2022 event are you most excited about experiencing?
Monaco always celebrates the end of year in glamorous style and this year promises to be no exception. Event organisers are working hard behind the scenes to put on a host of fun-filled, elegant Monaco events, whilst ensuring a safe Covid-secure environment for all. From Monaco’s eagerly anticipated Jazz Festival, to shopping extravaganzas, glamorous fundraisers, and theatre productions, the winter season in Monaco offers something for everyone. If you are looking for things to do in Monaco, then explore our curated selection of some of the best end of year Monaco events that guarantee festive cheer.
End Of Year Monaco Events
Grand Monaco Street Sale – Nov. 6 – 8
This vibrant Monaco event is a wonderful way to stock up on unique gifts for the festive season. Organised by the Union of Traders and Artisans of Monaco, shoppers can enjoy three full days of deep discounts and promotions. This year, the street sale takes place from November 6-8 in Espace Fontvieille.
Speakeasy – Nov. 13
Head to the Grimaldi Forum on November 13 and enjoy a trip back to the 1930s with this gripping theatre production. Speakeasy is the original creation of the Rat Pack company and is set in an American underground bar during the height of prohibition. Elegantly mixing circus art and choreography, this Monaco event offers a fantastic night out at the theatre. Cap the evening off with a delicious meal at one of Monaco’s many award-winning restaurants.
Monte Carlo Jazz Festival – From Nov. 16 – 27
The Monte Carlo Jazz Festival is always an eagerly awaited Monaco event. Now in its 15th year, the Jazz Festival offers a packed programme of concerts by world-renowned musicians at venues across the principality. This year’s line-up includes Kyle Eastwood, Thomas Dutronc, and Hugh Coltman. Running for some ten days from November 16, the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival is a Monaco event not-to-be-missed.
Santa Claus is Missing – Dec. 9
This Monaco event is for little ones and big kids at heart. Held at the Theatre Princesse Grace Monaco, youngsters will delight in watching Mirliton and Sobriquet, two Christmas elves, set off on a treasure hunt in search of Santa Claus who has gone missing. The treasure hunt takes them across the world, from the North Pole to the desert, with lots of twists and turns along the way. This fun-filled Monaco event is followed by a Christmas snack and guaranteed to get the entire family in the festive spirit!
Club Vivanova Charity Gala – Dec. 12
On December 12, the principality will play host to one of the most elegant annual charity fundraisers, Club Vivanova’s 6th annual Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala Dinner at the Fairmont Monte Carlo. The Monaco event – Turning Luxury into Charity – will raise money for two charities, Chances for Children, and The Animal Fund. Guests at this glittering Monaco event will enjoy a Premier Cru Champagne reception, sumptuous four-course dinner, live musical entertainment by High on Heels, charity auction, and Aston Martin DBX launch. The event will wrap up with the Vodka23 After Party. For those seeking things to do in Monaco that also enable them to do good, Club Vivanova’s Charity Gala is a must.
Of course, one Monaco event that you can enjoy throughout all the year is exploring Monaco luxury real estate. Whether you are seeking to buy an investment property, looking for a larger apartment, penthouse, a luxury villa, or searching for a new Monaco rental, our agents at La Costa Properties Monaco are here to help you, no matter the time of year.
Monaco life offers its residents luxury at every turn. Indeed, the French principality is a compact city-state that offers the very best in luxury living and is renowned the world over for the lavish life its residents and visitors enjoy. Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, ritzy nightlife, world-famous events, or luxurious shopping, check out why living in Monaco offers the very best of the good life.
Here we round up some of the best things to enjoy about Monaco life.
Luxurious Shopping at Every Turn
With one of the highest density of millionaires in the world, there’s no shortage of luxury shopping hot spots when it comes to living in Monaco.
One popular spot is the Metropole Shopping Centre in Monte Carlo, featuring a smorgasbord of some of the world’s most luxurious brands such as Gucci and Versace. Alternatively head to the Carré d’Or district, where exclusive brands jostle for the attention of those with ultra-deep pockets.
Join the High-Rollers
Monte Carlo’s famed casino – or the Casino de Monte-Carlo as it is officially named – is where high-rollers, celebrities, and VIPs go to gamble. Here you’ll find all the traditional gambling games, including English and European roulette and Texas hold-em poker, alongside a dazzling array of slot machines. Remember to dress to impress.
Gourmet Cuisine
Gourmands will not be disappointed when living in Monaco. Indeed, Monaco life offers a delicious choice of some of the finest restaurants in the world to choose from. Top restaurants include Restaurant Joel Robuchon Monte-Carlo, which boasts an open Teppanyaki-style kitchen, and Le Vistamar, which serves up mouth-watering European cuisine coupled with some of the best views in Monte Carlo.
Party The Night Away
Exclusive parties at some of the world’s best clubs is all part of the fun of Monaco life. Jimmy’z is a local celebrity hot spot and one of the most renowned destinations to party the night away. Dubbed the temple of clubbing, here revellers can enjoy some of the best beats by a roster of celebrity DJs, a stunning terrace coupled with a spectacular sea view, lush gardens, hookah, and some of the world’s best Champagne.
Other notable hot spots include Le Bar Americain, a swanky jazz club renowned for its live music programme, lust worthy cocktails and fabulous sea views.
Exclusive Events
Living in Monaco includes the opportunity to join in the fun of some of the world’s most exclusive events. The Monaco Yacht Show and the Monaco Grand Prix are two of the most eagerly awaited events on the annual Monaco social calendar and are both an intrinsic part of Monaco life.
The Monaco Yacht show is held annually at the end of September and is the world’s leading superyacht event boasting more than 100 yachts and mega yachts. Some 30,000 visitors join in the revellery of the event, which spans four fabulous days.
Held every May, the Monaco Grand Prix is the slowest and most difficult of all circuits in the Formula 1 World Championship and offers four-days of spectacular racing and wraparound events. Thousands of spectators gather to watch the world’s best racers speed through the streets of Monaco, offering a not-to-miss spectacle.
So, if you’re looking to enjoy a luxurious life, investing in Monte Carlo real estate will enable you to enjoy Monaco life at its very best.
A Portofino yacht charter offers an unforgettable way to experience the elegance and romance of the Italian Riviera. Set along north-western Italy’s most celebrated stretch of coastline, where the Ligurian Alps meet the Apennines, this region blends dramatic scenery with refined Mediterranean charm. At the heart of it all lies Portofino — one of the most sought-after yachting destinations in the Mediterranean and a jewel of the Ligurian coast.
The Italian Riviera has long captivated royalty, writers and celebrities, drawn by its mild climate, pastel-hued fishing villages and effortless sense of la dolce vita. A Portofino yacht charter places you in the centre of this timeless setting, where colourful buildings curve around a perfectly sheltered harbour and olive-clad hills rise steeply above the sea. For decades, Portofino has been synonymous with understated glamour, attracting the international jet set while retaining its intimate scale and old-world sophistication.
Arriving in Portofino by yacht is an experience in itself. As you cruise into the harbour, the iconic waterfront comes into view — ochre, terracotta and rose façades reflected in calm turquoise waters. Superyachts drop anchor just beyond the marina, tenders whisk guests ashore to the famous Piazzetta, and aperitivo hour unfolds with quiet elegance rather than ostentation. Unlike flashier Mediterranean hotspots, Portofino’s appeal lies in its refinement. While peak summer sees the town buzz with visitors, a Portofino yacht charter reveals a more serene and authentic side of the Italian Riviera, particularly in spring and autumn when the coastline feels wonderfully unhurried.
Beyond the harbour, the true magic of a Portofino yacht charter unfolds along the surrounding coastline. Many visitors never venture further than the Piazzetta, but by yacht you can explore hidden coves, crystalline swimming spots and secluded anchorages that remain inaccessible by land. Cruise along the rugged cliffs of the Portofino Marine Protected Area, where emerald waters meet pine-covered headlands, or drop anchor near San Fruttuoso to visit its historic abbey and the famous underwater Christ of the Abyss statue.
The nearby Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another highlight of Portofino yacht charters. Its five pastel villages cling dramatically to terraced cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Arriving by yacht allows you to appreciate their beauty from the water before stepping ashore to wander narrow lanes, sample local seafood and sip Ligurian white wine. The perspective from sea offers a sense of scale and tranquillity that day-trippers rarely experience.
For those seeking quiet sophistication, the Gulf of Tigullio offers numerous elegant anchorages and charming coastal towns. Santa Margherita Ligure provides a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, while Rapallo combines historic villas with sweeping sea views. A Portofino yacht charter enables you to move effortlessly between lively waterfront promenades and tranquil bays framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation.
While Portofino is often compared to Saint-Tropez during the height of summer, the atmosphere differs markedly. Champagne-spraying beach clubs and high-energy nightlife are not the focus here. Instead, Portofino yacht charters revolve around leisurely lunches overlooking the harbour, romantic dinners tucked between mountains and sea, and scenic cruises beneath golden evening light. It is a destination defined by beauty rather than spectacle.
Chartering a yacht in Portofino also offers flexibility beyond a single harbour. Extend your itinerary west toward Genoa’s historic palaces or east toward Portovenere and the dramatic Ligurian coastline. Each day presents a new panorama of cliffs, coves and charming fishing villages, all within easy cruising distance.
Although Portofino is undeniably popular, a yacht charter ensures privacy and exclusivity even during peak season. By anchoring just beyond the harbour or cruising to quieter corners of the Gulf of Tigullio, you can escape the crowds while remaining moments from the town’s celebrated highlights. This balance of accessibility and seclusion is what makes Portofino yacht charters so appealing.
Whether you are drawn by iconic scenery, cultural heritage or relaxed Italian elegance, a Portofino yacht charter delivers a quintessential Mediterranean experience. From the pastel harbour to hidden coastal sanctuaries, this stretch of the Italian Riviera continues to enchant travellers from around the world. With the freedom of a private yacht, you can discover both the celebrated landmarks and the lesser-known treasures that make Portofino one of the Mediterranean’s most enduring yachting destinations.
A century ago, winter on the French Riviera was not merely a season — it was a social institution. Long before summer tourism transformed the Côte d’Azur into a sun-drenched playground, the South of France was celebrated as Europe’s most glamorous winter resort. As temperatures fell across northern capitals and the first snows settled on the Alps, first-class trains steamed south carrying queens and tsars, dukes and duchesses, industrial magnates, writers and artists. They arrived seeking mild Mediterranean air, luminous light and a refined winter social calendar unlike anywhere else in the world.
At the turn of the 19th century, winter on the French Riviera placed the region at the very centre of fashionable society. Grand hotels in Nice, Cannes and Menton filled with aristocratic families escaping harsh northern climates. Days were spent promenading beneath palm trees along sweeping boulevards, attending operas and concerts, or gathering for elegant afternoon teas overlooking the glittering sea. Evenings brought lavish balls and candlelit dinners in belle époque villas, where conversation flowed as freely as Champagne. The Mediterranean in winter possessed a crystalline beauty — cooler, calmer and sparkling with a distinctive clarity that became part of the Riviera’s mystique.
In contrast, the summer months were once considered unsuitable for polite society. July and August were deemed far too hot and languid for refined tastes. As spring gave way to summer haze, carriages departed northward and the Riviera’s palatial residences were shuttered until autumn returned. For decades, the Côte d’Azur remained a resolutely wintertime destination — synonymous with health, elegance and cultured living.
The transformation began in the 1920s, when American socialites Gerald and Sara Murphy reimagined the Riviera’s potential. Persuading the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc to remain open during the summer months, they ushered in a new era of seasonal glamour. Their nearby villa became a gathering place for literary and artistic icons such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, whose carefree summers of seaside revelry, long boozy lunches and exuberant parties gradually shifted perceptions of the region.
Yet despite the rise of summer splendour, the heritage of winter on the French Riviera endures. Today, the quieter months still reveal the Côte d’Azur at its most refined — bathed in soft winter light, free from peak-season crowds and rich with cultural tradition. It is a season that harks back to the Riviera’s aristocratic roots, when winter, not summer, defined the ultimate Mediterranean escape.
Each year the Principality of Monaco plays host to a unique musical event, which showcases some of the most accomplished and celebrated musicians in the world. The Monte-Carlo Music Masters is a renowned annual competition that was founded by Jean-Marie Fournier and first took place in Monaco in 1992.
In October of each year, music lovers flock to Monte Carlo from every corner of the globe in order to attend the various rounds of this breathtaking musical contest. One of the very best ways for musical aficionados to experience this superb event is by staying in their very own villa for rent near Monaco. When you rent a luxury villa on the French Riviera, in close proximity to Monte Carlo, at this time of year, you’re able to not only enjoy the many sophisticated pleasures of this perpetually sun-drenched coastline, but you’re also only a short and convenient hop away from one of the globe’s most exciting musical competitions.
The Monte-Carlo Music Masters sets forth several distinctive regulations that inevitably elevate the quality and standards of the musicians that compete here and the music they produce. One of these rules allows only musicians who have already won other competitions in the past to participate in the Monte-Carlo Music Masters.
Another unorthodox specification of this illustrious competition is that, each successive year, the Monte-Carlo Music Masters focuses on only one discipline, alternating between piano, violin or voice, so as to be certain to devote the requisite amount of attention and focus that each musical category deserves. In turn, this particular quirk benefits those spectators or fans who have a specific affinity for any of these three musical specialties. So, fans of the violin can choose to attend the Monte-Carlo Violin Masters and get completely carried away by the strains of their favourite compositions.
Monte-Carlo Voice Masters 2017
In 2017, it was the turn of the singers to compete at the Monte-Carlo Music Masters. Those blessed with magnificent voices travelled to Monaco from all around the planet to compete, to offer their very best operatic arias and to try and earn the coveted €30,000 Prince Rainier III Prize. The riveting elimination rounds of this year’s event were no doubt as gruelling for the competitors to participate in, as they were compelling for those gathered to watch.
In the thrilling final, which took place on Saturday the 14th of October at the Auditorium Rainier III, two South Korean singers duelled musically. Eventually it was Gil Byeong-Min who prevailed and earned the title of winner of the Monte-Carlo Voice Masters 2017.
However, there’s an argument to be made that the true winners on this day (and indeed throughout the entire competition) were the music lovers fortunate enough to attend, and witness the incredible levels of vocal virtuosity that were on display at this year’s Monte-Carlo Voice Masters.
If you’d like to find out what it feels like to listen to some of the world’s best musicians, all at the top of their games, competing against one another, then you should plan on attending the Monte-Carlo Music Masters 2018 by renting a luxury villa on the French Riviera.
Our planet is no doubt blessed with a myriad of breathtakingly stunning scenery, but very few places compare to the luxurious blend of vintage luxury and enchanting landscapes that is the French Riviera and its legendary sun-drenched beaches. This delightfully sculpted scenery which stretches from St. Tropez up until the French-Italian border is an avalanche of hospitality; complete with sandy beaches, blue seas (and skies), trendy shopping stores and exclusive boutiques. Dazzling with historic vineyards, extravagant chateaus, and calm waters transcended by traversing yachts, the French Riviera immerses its visitors in an ethereal world of splendor and magnificence. Add a touch of style and classical French hospitality, and you see why this place leads the chart of top celebrity tourist destinations.
Cannes on the French Riviera is an action attraction sure to tickle the fancy of every tourist. The town hosts the famous Cannes Film Festival on an annual basis – providing a glistering perspective of what luxury and holiday resorting should be like. With an aura of regality and modest affluence, the sun perched Mediterranean coastline, and nearby medieval styled villages provide a lucid imagery of the rich French cultural history. It’s however not just about the scenery, as embossed in the rose gold streets of the nearby, Eze, Antibes, Saint Tropez and Menton as a firsthand historical perspective of French Sovereignty. Antibes in particular, with its picturesque streets and prestigious museums, reunites you with history; and if you have a taste for the exclusive, its impressive line up of celebrity villas will leave you craving for more of the same.
What’s the best way to explore the French Riviera; by land where you get up close and personal with its stunning architecture or via the air where you’re treated to an almost godlike perspective of its stunning scenery? How about a taste of the two; up close and personal plus a godlike view and then a serving of luxurious adventure – cue the waters of the French Riviera and its luxury yachts. Of the many highlights the French Riviera is known for, its exotic yachting and beach culture stands out as one of the most prominent in the world. Since the 18th century when its white pebble beaches were routinely toured by the likes of King Edward VII, Queen Victoria, Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, the French Riviera has conveyed a sense of wealth and privileged luxury; the kind that has drawn hordes of affluent visitors to its endearing yet reassuringly calm waters. So, whether you arrive on your private yacht or join the enthusiastic company of other tourists to hitch a ride aboard a cruise, ferry or boat, rest assured that you will a get a taste of the regally grand adventures of the French Riviera’s breathtaking waters.
Away from the Sea and onto the Roads of the French Riviera
Granted the sea and its frivolities pack a unique touch of adventure, but no trip to the French Riviera is complete without a day, or two spent touring its scenic landscapes and interacting with its soulful scenery. Far from the tardy definitions of a conventional tour, you too can experience the French Riviera from an elite perspective, with a custom planned tour in the supercar of your dreams. If you thought the bustling waters of the Riviera were endearing, then get set for a treat. A driving tour of the French Riviera aboard a supercar replaces the gentle sways of the adventurous sea with the high-octane pumped twists and turns of France’s greatest driving roads – it really is, the ultimate way to infuse a vibrant and spirited experience into your French Riviera adventure.
The Cote d’Azur and Provence feature a stunning landscape made for the 21st century explorer. The seemingly endless stretches of roads wiggle around the sun draped hills and snow-tipped mountains leaving in their wake Provence’s signature lavender fields and vignette olive groves. But that’s just a snippet of what lies in store; the Alpes-Maritimes, a streak of cliff-top roads snaking up the French Riviera’s daunting mountain range is length for length one of the most enthralling routes for driving in all of Europe. Its range is dotted with iconic hilltop villages, each painted with a byzantine palette of class and vintage luxury. From Gourdon, through Vence and up into Moustiers Sainte Marie, expect a visually scintillating experience that will most certainly leave an indelible imprint on your travel memories.
Planning your Car Tour on the French Riviera
Ready to delve into the French Riviera? Start off your tour from Cannes where an experienced tour guide will meet you at about 6:30 pm in the comfort of your hotel lobby. You will be provided with a detailed rundown of what to expect before the keys to your select dream car is handed over; this could be a Lamborghini, a Ferrari, a Porsche or even a Bugatti if you’re hell-bent on keeping the whole experience, French.
After your first night, spent shrugging off any accompanying bits of sea sluggishness, you should be well in tune with the magic of the French Riviera – the land version. Your first route to conquer is the long stretch of road leading from Cannes up into Provence. Do this by coasting along the famous Croisette promenade and its breathtaking view of the adjacent bay of Cannes. Make your way to the charming and eccentric village of Gourdon. This town hosts an assortment of cute small boutiques, antique and art, sumptuous cuisine, perfumes, olive oils, all reminiscent of medieval France. But all this pales in comparison to the magnificent view this hilltop village provides; Gourdon perched at an altitude of almost 760m treats you to an exclusive perspective of the Mediterranean coastline and the Alps.
From here, its onwards to the iconic Artuby bridge in all its artistic curves and silhouetted brilliance. The Verdon National park lies just ahead and nestled within its confines is the Gorges du Verdon, France’s own Grand Canyon; make sure to take some photos, the views are spectacular. After lunch, head off into Provence where your luxury hotel awaits you.
Day two and you’re back on track, only this time for a taste of the spectacular with one of Europe’s finest collection of mountain passes and twisting roads; if you are familiar with the Swiss Alps; you know what to expect with the Mediterranean Alps roads. Breeze through the legendary Route Napoleon and its nearby twin the Route de Thorenc. Both feature hanging cliffs and fast-paced straights; and while others pause to take a breather from the corners, you effortlessly conquer the road with the confidence that comes from being in your very own supercar.
Your road tour of the French Riviera comes to an end with the shimmering tarmac of Col de Vence, and its striking view of the sea. From here it’s smooth sailing via the highway back to Monte-Carlo.
EPIKdrives has indeed created an epic French Riviera Driving Tour that deserves to be tested on your next trip to France.
You know the South of France summer is in full swing when celebrities and their bodyguards are popping in and out of boutiques, and charter guests speed back to their yachts, their tenders laden down with shopping bags full of designer gowns and swimwear from the world’s great fashion houses.
It’s far from unknown for superyacht guests to drop a cool €100,000 on a morning’s shopping trip in the glamorous boutiques of Saint Tropez, Cannes, or Monaco. But that’s not to say you need to have a spare hundred grand to enjoy the shopping experience during your South of France yacht charter.
Our Riviera shopping guide takes you from the haute couture fashion houses and elite ready-to-wear designers, through to local boutique gems and colourful local markets. And as no-one fancies giving money to the tax-man unnecessarily, we’ve also included some information on how to shop duty-free on the French Riviera.
Shopping in Monaco
If you begin your yacht charter in Monaco, there’s no better way to start than taking an afternoon stroll through the Principality to find a stunning designer outfit for your first evening on the yacht.
The Cercle d’Or & Summer Pavilions
The haute couture designers and luxury jewellers hang their shingles around the famous Cercle d’Or, where it’s just one prestigious fashion brand after another, including Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Cartier, Bvlgari, Hermès, Salvatore Ferragamo, Dior, and Chanel.
During summer 2017, 40 ultra-luxe brands will be displaying in the ‘Promenade Monte Carlo Shopping’: an exclusive installation of summer pavilions near the Place du Casino. The ideal route for a Cercle d’Or shopping tour begins at the Pavilions before carrying along the famous Avenue de Monte Carlo and onto Allée Francois Blanc.
If you’re a bargain-hunter roaming this part of town, slip behind the casino and away from the Cercle d’Or to Avenue Saint Michel, where Stock Griffe boutique offers big name brands for up to 70% off.
Town Centre
In the town centre, Boulevard des Moulins, Boulevard d’Italie, and Avenue Princesse Grace showcase many high end boutiques, including local offerings such as Monegasque luxury brand, 209 Mare.
La Condamine
The Condamine area down by the marina has more than 200 boutiques of dazzling variety and budget – from fashion and homewares to gourmet stores. For those shoppers who love to explore, La Condamine holds many treasures, including Le Dressing: a vintage designer shop featuring second-hand beauties from designers like Chanel.
Shopping Malls
Monaco even does shopping malls with exceptional style. Galerie du Metropole is one of the most luxurious malls on the planet, with acres of marble, porters to help with your bags, and 80 luxury stores including Armani and Brunello Cucinelli.
If you’re after a more low key or practical shopping experience, head to Fontvieille shopping mall, where you’ll find electronics, fashion stores, and a large Carrefour supermarket.
Markets
Finally, despite its high-end shopping reputation, Monaco also does a wonderful daily market in La Condamine featuring Mediterranean produce and local crafts, and a funky little flea market at Fontvieille on Saturdays.
Things worth knowing
There’s a 20% VAT surcharge on goods you buy in Monaco: it may be known as a tax haven, but unfortunately that doesn’t apply to the shopping experience! However, if you’re a visitor from a country outside the EU, you will be eligible for a VAT refund on purchases over €175 made in a single store.
Shopping in Cannes
Cannes is one of the world’s ultimate shopping destinations, and you’ll feel the excitement in the air as you skip from Chanel to Yves Saint Laurent to Dior, passing celebrities carrying little dogs in their Hermès handbags.
The Croisette
Cannes Croisette is a byword for luxury shopping, with flagship haute couture boutiques lining the boulevard beneath the palm trees and ornate Belle Epoque hotels. As well as the big global names such as Dior and Chanel, there are also some very fine French boutiques worth knowing about, such as Paule Kar, Chacok, and Leonard Fashion.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a glamorous evening gown for your night out in Cannes but have a bit of an eye on your budget, try MyAnnika, a boutique specialising in evening dresses at affordable prices.
During the Cannes Film Festival, there’s even a red carpet laid out along the shopping strip, and the Croisette is largely pedestrianised on summer evenings as of 2017, making this prestigious shopping destination even more drop-dead gorgeous than ever. And if you’re in the mood to get a head-start on the summer crowds with a spring yacht charter, the Croisette hosts a shopping festival each April, with fashion shows and season previews. Be still, my beating heart.
Rue d’Antibes
If you must drag yourself away from the Croisette, Rue d’Antibes is the place to do it. This famous street just behind the Croisette is the other fashionable place to shop in Cannes, with a succession of luxury brands like Vilebrequin and famous high street brands like Zara, as well as sunglass stores and decadent chocolate shops for gifts to take home.
And as if it couldn’t get any better, the block between the Croisette and the Rue d’Antibes completes the famous Carré d’Or, where fine jewels are laid out in the window displays between chic bars and swimwear stores.
Rue des Etats-Unis
This recently-updated shopping street features high-end interior design shops to find that perfect French piece to ship home.
Rue Meynadier
On the other hand, if you’re looking to shop like a Cannois local, then Rue Meynadier is for you, with its eclectic mix of affordable fashion and artisan food stores.
Shopping Malls
If you’re still hungry for more, the Galerie Gray d’Albion shopping mall is located just by the Croisette, featuring a range of high-end stores including La Perla. If you’re looking for more practical shopping, head to the neighbouring town of Cannes La Bocca.
Markets
To get the true Cannes experience on your yacht charter, a visit to the local markets is a must, and Marche Forville delights with its bustling atmosphere, and colourful stalls of fruit and flowers, cheese and fish.
Things worth knowing
Like Monaco, you can claim a VAT refund on purchases over €175 in a single store if you hail from a country outside the EU. If you’re planning a South of France shopping spree, apply for a Global Blue ‘shop tax free card’ so you can automatically be refunded at participating stores, or just ask in the store for a detaxe’ form to claim at the airport upon departure.
Shopping in Saint Tropez
Welcome to little boutique heaven, where the towering names of the fashion world sit on cobbled laneways next to unique Saint Tropez boutiques. The village of Saint Tropez isn’t big and all its boutiques are a leisurely stroll from each other, so just grab your credit card and explore to your heart’s content, with a focus on the luxury triangle between Place des Lices, Rue Gambetta, and Rue Allard.
Global Fashion houses
You’ll find the instantly-recognisable names of Hermès, Armani, Dior, and Louis Vuitton emblazoned above the doorways of Saint Tropez’ pastel facades, as well as Zadig et Voltaire, Lanvin, Swarovksi and Eres, just to name a few. However, it’s worth noting that the luxury shopping scene is just as much about the local as the international in enchanting St Tropez.
Local Boutiques
Arguably the most famous item in a Saint Tropez wardrobe is the iconic Tropezienne sandal, which was established by the Rondini family in 1927, with stiff competition from the K.Jacques family who set up shop 5 years later.
As you might expect, swimwear is also a hot item in sunny Saint Tropez, where the local Vilebrequin and Kiwi St Tropez boutiques began their meteoric rise on the superyacht fashion scene.
For jewellery, Gas Bijoux delights with its chunky, colourful designs, while Au Soleil de Saint Tropez is the last word in boho chic (as worn by the stars.)
There’s something for everyone in fashionable St Tropez. If you’re feeling nautical, Blanc Blue is a local boutique full of sailor-style stripes and scarves, while those up for a spot of polo at the St Tropez polo club will find all the right attire at La Martina. Bla Blas is an absolute treasure trove of quirky labels, while Be Shorts— well, you can guess what they sell.
Markets and Cellars
One St Tropez shopping experience which is not to be missed is a Saturday morning at the Place des Lices market, where Provencal produce, gifts, and clothing are spread out in stalls underneath the shade of century-old plane trees.
And finally, if you’re wanting to take home some excellent Provencal wine for a gift or to cellar, head to La Cave de Saint Tropez or Terre de Mer.
Things to know
The same tax free opportunities exist in St Tropez as in Cannes, with a Global Blue card definitely the way to go if you’re planning on splashing some cash.
A yacht charter is the perfect way to make the most of a luxury shopping adventure along the French Riviera. Where land-locked tourists have to battle with summer traffic in the South of France, you just float along between the great shopping destinations of the Riviera, falling ever deeper in love as you go.
The French Riviera may be famous for red carpets, superyachts and glamorous beach clubs, but it is also a surprisingly brilliant destination for a yacht charter with children. While the Côte d’Azur is often associated with sophistication and style, families will quickly discover that it offers an abundance of activities perfectly suited to younger guests.
In fact, planning a family yacht charter along this iconic stretch of coastline can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the Mediterranean. With calm bays, short cruising distances and diverse shore excursions, the Riviera is ideal for keeping children entertained from morning to evening.
Why the French Riviera Works for a Yacht Charter with Children
The region’s geography makes it particularly family-friendly. Sheltered anchorages provide safe swimming spots, while sandy beaches near Antibes and Saint-Tropez are perfect for treasure hunts, paddleboarding and water sports. Many yachts are equipped with water toys, inflatables and snorkelling gear — turning quiet coves into private playgrounds.
For adventurous families, there’s far more beyond the beach. Children can explore underwater “villages” while snorkelling in clear Mediterranean waters, visit interactive marine museums, or head inland for zip-lining and treetop adventure parks. Summer evenings often bring open-air concerts and spectacular firework displays along the coast, creating magical memories for younger charter guests.
Theme parks and water parks near Antibes add high-energy fun, while boat trips to the Îles de Lérins offer gentle nature walks and castle explorations that feel like stepping into a storybook.
Education Meets Exploration
A yacht charter with children on the French Riviera can also be enriching. Visits to historic forts, island monasteries and maritime museums combine fun with cultural discovery. Exploring bustling Provençal markets introduces young travellers to local food, colours and traditions in a way that feels immersive rather than instructional.
Flexible, Relaxed Family Time
One of the greatest advantages of a yacht charter for families is flexibility. Days can be adapted around children’s energy levels — whether that means early-morning swims, relaxed lunches on deck or spontaneous stops at quiet beaches. Parents can enjoy the luxury and service of a fully crewed yacht, while children benefit from constant variety and outdoor adventure.
The French Riviera may be synonymous with glamour, but it is also a place of sunshine, sea and shared experiences. For families seeking a balance of relaxation, excitement and unforgettable scenery, a yacht charter with children on the Côte d’Azur proves that luxury and family fun can go hand in hand.
The celebrity history of the French Riviera reads like a glittering Who’s Who of the past century. From ambitious tycoons and exiled royals to Hollywood sirens and avant-garde artists, the Côte d’Azur became a magnet for those seeking freedom, fortune and fame beneath the Mediterranean sun.
What began in the 19th century as a quiet coastline of medieval villages, olive groves and rocky sheep farms was transformed by a handful of influential personalities into the ultimate playground for the international elite. The celebrity history of the French Riviera is not merely a tale of glamour — it is the story of how individuals reshaped an entire region.
Aristocrats escaping northern winters first discovered the Riviera’s mild climate and restorative sea air. Soon after, writers, artists and socialites followed. The arrival of European royalty and wealthy industrialists sparked a building boom of grand villas and Belle Époque hotels. Later, Hollywood icons and American billionaires elevated the region’s reputation even further, fuelling its meteoric rise as a symbol of decadence and sophistication.
The Côte d’Azur’s transformation was dramatic. Where fishermen once hauled nets along quiet shores, superyachts began to anchor. Private beach parties, scandalous love affairs and legendary soirées cemented the Riviera’s reputation for intrigue and indulgence. The modern superyacht industry itself owes much to this era of celebrity excess and innovation.
Yet beyond the parties and red carpets, the celebrity history of the French Riviera reveals something deeper: a region shaped by creative energy and bold personalities. Writers found inspiration in its luminous light, artists captured its pastel façades and glittering seas, and socialites redefined leisure culture along its coastline.
Today, the French Riviera continues to carry this legacy. From Monaco’s royal allure to Cannes’ cinematic prestige and Saint-Tropez’s jet-set spirit, each destination bears the imprint of those who helped craft its myth.
Join us on a journey through the celebrity history of the French Riviera, stopping at the villas, cafés, harbours and hidden corners once frequented by royalty, artists and socialites who forever changed the destiny of the Côte d’Azur — and in doing so, created one of the world’s most enduring luxury legends.
A Côte d’Azur yacht charter is defined by contrast — and few anchorages illustrate this more beautifully than La Napoule. Nestled at the foot of the Esterel mountains, the Bay of La Napoule offers one of the most striking natural settings on the French Riviera.
Here, the deep red volcanic rocks of the Massif de l’Esterel rise dramatically from the shoreline, creating a vivid contrast against the turquoise Mediterranean. Just offshore lie the serene Îles de Lérins, where pine forests, hidden coves and sun-drenched vineyards provide tranquil escape from the busier Riviera ports.
Why Include La Napoule on a Côte d’Azur Yacht Charter?
La Napoule offers the perfect balance between natural beauty and refined Riviera lifestyle. As part of the commune of Mandelieu-La Napoule, this charming coastal enclave provides sheltered anchorages ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and relaxed afternoons at sea.
Step ashore and the appeal continues. The surrounding Esterel hills offer exceptional outdoor activities, from scenic hiking trails and mountain biking routes to horse riding through fragrant Mediterranean landscapes. The terrain is dramatic yet accessible, making it ideal for charter guests seeking active exploration alongside time on the water.
For golf enthusiasts, Mandelieu-La Napoule is home to one of the Riviera’s most renowned courses, set amid lush greenery with mountain backdrops. Culinary highlights are equally impressive, with Michelin-starred dining and elegant waterfront restaurants providing memorable gastronomic experiences after a day at anchor.
A Riviera Alternative with Authentic Charm
Unlike the high-energy glamour of Cannes or Monaco, La Napoule delivers a quieter, more scenic stop on a Côte d’Azur yacht charter itinerary. It feels refined yet relaxed — a place where dramatic natural scenery meets understated luxury.
Cruising between the Lérins Islands and the Esterel coastline, anchoring in the sheltered Bay of La Napoule and dining in Mandelieu-La Napoule creates a seamless blend of sea, sport and sophistication.
For those designing a Côte d’Azur yacht charter that balances glamour with natural splendour, La Napoule is an unmissable highlight — a vivid reminder that the French Riviera’s beauty extends far beyond its most famous ports.
Let’s address the obvious from the outset. Marseille — that maligned yet magnificent Mediterranean port — is rarely included on a traditional French Riviera yacht charter itinerary. Most charter yachts cruise as far as Saint-Tropez before turning back toward the polished glamour of Cannes and Monaco.
But what are yacht charter guests missing by not venturing further west toward Marseille? In truth, an extraordinary stretch of coastline that ranks among the most dramatic in the Mediterranean.
Why Include Marseille on a Yacht Charter Itinerary?
A yacht charter to Marseille opens the door to a landscape that feels wilder and more elemental than the classic Riviera hotspots. Here, towering limestone cliffs plunge into impossibly turquoise waters. Narrow inlets carve deep into the coastline, forming fjord-like calanques that rival any Caribbean anchorage for natural beauty.
The region surrounding Marseille offers immense variety within short cruising distances. To the east lies the charming harbour town of Cassis, framed by vineyards and pastel façades. Further along the coast, Bandol is celebrated for both its relaxed marina atmosphere and its renowned rosé wines.
At the heart of the area is Calanques National Park — a spectacular protected coastline of white rock cliffs, hidden coves and crystalline waters. Exploring the Calanques by yacht allows access to secluded anchorages unreachable by road, making it one of the highlights of a Marseille yacht charter.
To the west and south, the appeal continues with the Îles du Frioul and the more distant Golden Islands near Hyères, offering Caribbean-like beaches and protected marine environments ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
A Different Kind of Mediterranean Glamour
Unlike the polished ports of the eastern Riviera, Marseille offers authenticity and scale. It is France’s oldest city, rich in maritime history and multicultural energy. The Old Port (Vieux-Port) buzzes with life, seafood restaurants line the quays, and the basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde watches over the harbour from its hilltop perch.
Including Marseille in a yacht charter itinerary adds depth and distinction. Guests experience a coastline where nature dominates, where vineyards meet the sea, and where ancient villages sit quietly above hidden bays.
For those willing to venture beyond the usual Riviera circuit, Marseille and yacht charter are a compelling combination — offering dramatic scenery, cultural richness and some of the most unforgettable cruising waters in the Mediterranean.