La Grande Motte is a fantastic spot for sailing, especially because of its calm waters, scenic coastline, and lively maritime atmosphere. Whether you’re after a peaceful cruise with stunning views or a party boat with music and drinks, this small French resort offers a variety of options. We’re particularly fond of the La Grande Motte: Le Grau-du-Roi Bay Catamaran Cruise for its relaxing pace and scenic beauty, and the Famous VIP Cata Party for its lively vibe. Both give you a taste of how fun sailing in this part of France can be.
What makes La Grande Motte stand out is its diverse range of cruises—whether you prefer sunbathing on a nets, dancing with a DJ, or exploring nearby Sète, there’s something for all. If you want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local life, the day trip to Sète is especially appealing. Each experience offers a different way to enjoy the sea, so below we’ve broken down what to expect from each tour to help you pick the perfect one.
1. La Grande Motte: Le Grau-du-Roi Bay Catamaran Cruise
At number one, this 1.5-hour afternoon cruise is perfect for those who want to unwind and soak in the scenery without a time crunch. The cruise explores the bay of Grau-du-Roi, known for its calm waters and striking coastal views. During July and August, you can even enjoy bathing in the bay, adding a refreshing touch to your sailing experience.
What makes this cruise stand out is the relaxed vibe—you’re free to lounge on the roof, in the nets, or on the deck while breathing in salty air. It’s a classy, tranquil way to take in the coastline, especially if you’re traveling with family or simply want some downtime. The breathtaking views of the landscape make it a popular choice—and with a 4.5-star rating based on 231 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this cruise worth their time.
Bottom line: If your goal is to enjoy a peaceful sail with great scenery and some optional swimming, this cruise hits the spot. It’s especially suited for those who want a gentle, scenic escape without rushing.
2. Catamaran Lucile | Famous VIP cata party
For a lively, music-filled experience, the Famous VIP Party on the Catamaran Lucile is hard to beat. This 2-hour sea cruise runs from April to October and transforms a sail into a festive dance floor. A DJ spins a broad playlist of energetic tunes, making it ideal for friends looking to party on the water.
Included in the ticket are 3 drinks and macarons, adding a sweet touch to the celebration. The boat itself is well-maintained, with high safety standards, ensuring peace of mind as you dance and sip. The 4.8-star rating from just 8 reviews suggests that this experience is a hit among those who love a good party.
What sets this cruise apart is its festive atmosphere, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just having a carefree afternoon with friends. It’s a good pick if you’re after lively music, cocktails, and a fun vibe rather than quiet scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for lively groups who want to dance on the water and enjoy drinks in a party setting. The short duration and festive energy make it a memorable, high-energy outing.
3. Catamaran Lucile | From La Grande Mote Stopover in Sète
Looking for a full-day adventure? The Sète trip on the Catamaran Lucile offers 8 hours of sailing, sightseeing, and exploring. Starting at La Grande Motte, you’ll cruise for 2 hours to the charming port of Sète, a lively town famous for its canals and seafood markets.
Once in Sète, you’ll have around 4 hours to stroll through markets, shop, or enjoy Mediterranean cuisine. Highlights include the opportunity to observe wild fauna and flora along the coast and relax with a refreshing drink aboard the boat during the trip. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to experience both the scenic journey and the vibrant local scene.
This tour is especially appealing for those who want a mix of sea travel and cultural exploration, with the convenience of a half-day stopover in a charming coastal town. The reviews note the beautiful landscape and relaxing pace, making it great for a leisurely day out.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience combining sailing with sightseeing and local flavor. It’s perfect for those with a bit of time and curiosity for the region.
4. Catamaran Lucile | Famous Eat cata party
If your idea of fun involves live music, excellent snacks, and a party vibe, the Famous Eat Party is the choice for you. This 2-hour cruise runs from April to October, featuring a DJ, an open bar, and a menu of savory and sweet snacks.
The boat maintains high safety standards and offers a festive, social environment. The 5-star rating from 2 reviews suggests it’s a favorite among those seeking a lively, informal celebration on the water. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy good music and great company as you sail along, making it perfect for a casual get-together or special occasion.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of music, drinks, and snacks, creating an atmosphere that’s more party than sightseeing. It’s suitable for those who love to socialize and enjoy good food in a fun setting.
Bottom line: Best for groups wanting a relaxing yet lively evening with music, drinks, and tasty bites, all wrapped into a two-hour sailing adventure.
5. Catamaran Lucile | Famous Boat cata party
The Famous Boat Cata Party is similar to the eat party but takes place in the evening, creating a perfect setting for a night out on the water. This 2-hour cruise combines the DJ, open bar, and snacks with a more relaxed, evening atmosphere.
Rated 5 stars from 1 review, this cruise is highly regarded for its festive ambiance and fun camaraderie. The boat’s safety standards are high, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. This cruise is ideal if you want to combine the thrill of a party with the beauty of a sunset or night cruise.
It’s a great choice for night owls and those celebrating special milestones, with the music and drinks creating an engaging and memorable experience under the stars.
Bottom line: Perfect for lively evenings with friends, music, and drinks, especially if you prefer a party vibe after sunset.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience
When deciding which sailing experience in La Grande Motte suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and available time. For tranquil scenery and a slow pace, the Le Grau-du-Roi Bay Catamaran Cruise is ideal. If a lively party atmosphere calls your name, the VIP cata party or Eat cata party would be perfect choices.
For those with a full day to explore, the Sète stopover offers a mix of sailing and sightseeing. Budget-conscious travelers might find the shorter cruises more appealing, while party lovers should look at evening options.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months from April to October, when these experiences are most popular. Also, check the weather forecast—calm seas make for a better experience in all cases.
Final Thoughts
La Grande Motte offers a wide range of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after serene views, lively parties, or cultural explorations. The catamaran cruises are ideal for peaceful afternoons, while the VIP and eat party cruises bring energetic fun to the water. The full-day Sète trip is perfect if you have a full day and want a mix of sightseeing and sailing.
If you’re visiting La Grande Motte, consider your style—relaxing or lively—and pick a tour that matches your mood. Both options promise memorable moments on the water, so don’t forget to book early and enjoy all the beauty this part of France has to offer.
