If you’re dreaming of soaking up the glamour of the French Riviera, a half-day private yacht charter on a Pershing 40 in Saint Tropez might just be your perfect escape. From the sleek design of the boat to the personalized itinerary, this experience promises a taste of luxury and adventure without the full-day commitment. Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, we’re here to give you the inside scoop so you can decide if it’s right for you.
We love the idea of having customizable routes that let you explore iconic spots like Billionaires Bay or Pampelonne Beach with the privacy of your own crew. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and snacks makes it feel relaxed and fun, even if you’re not a seasoned sailor. On the flip side, there’s a fuel surcharge not included in the price, which is worth considering upfront. This tour tends to suit travelers who want a taste of the Riviera’s elegance in a manageable time frame and don’t mind spending a bit for a tailored experience.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, want to see Saint Tropez from an enviable angle, or simply crave a relaxing day on the water, this yacht charter offers quite a bit of value. It’s ideal for small groups (up to 8 adults or 10 with children) who appreciate privacy, flexibility, and a touch of nautical style.
Key Points
- Private and customizable: You control the route and experience, with options to upgrade for food or watersports.
- Ideal for small groups: Up to 8 adults comfortably, or 10 with children, making it great for families or friends.
- Includes essentials: Snacks, soft drinks, water, and snorkeling gear come standard, ensuring a relaxed day.
- Beautiful locations: Stop at luxurious spots like Billionaires Bay, Salins Beach, and scenic anchorages.
- Flexible timing: Choose from morning or afternoon departures to fit your schedule.
- Weather-dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to storms are fully refundable or reschedulable.
The Experience: What to Expect on the Yacht
Booking a half-day private yacht trip in Saint Tropez means stepping aboard a stunning Pershing 40, a sleek 43-foot vessel that comfortably fits your group in style. The adventure begins at your chosen meeting point—either Port Grimaud, Sainte Maxime, Saint Tropez, or Cogolin—and the captain will set your course through the iconic Golfe du Saint Tropez.
Cruising the French Riviera is the first highlight. As you glide through the water, you’ll be surrounded by a landscape of luxury—superyachts, colorful villas, and rugged coastline. The emphasis here is on personalized discovery, so you can ask your crew to focus on sights that interest you most.
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The Stops and Highlights
Your itinerary is quite flexible, but a typical route includes:
- Canoubiers Anchorage (Billionaires Bay): This is the first major stop, famous for its star-studded history and calm waters. It’s a prime spot for swimming or paddleboarding, with plenty of space to relax. Several reviewers mentioned how stunning and serene this area is, perfect for capturing photos and soaking up the sun.
- Parcs de Saint Tropez: A scenic spot where you can enjoy some downtime, with the natural beauty of the coastline providing a stunning backdrop. It’s a pleasant mix of relaxation and sightseeing.
- Salins Beach: Known as a hidden gem, Salins offers pristine sands and clear waters. It’s a favorite among reviewers who enjoyed swimming and water activities here.
Throughout the cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with provided equipment, which many travelers found to be a highlight. The water clarity and warm temperatures (on sunny days) make for enjoyable snorkeling sessions. Plus, snacks, soft drinks, and bottled water are included, so you can stay refreshed without worrying about bringing your own.
Customization and Extra Options
The tour is completely private, which allows for a tailored experience. Want more watersports? You can upgrade to include full catering, wine, or more adventurous activities. This flexibility is highly appreciated by guests who want to turn a half-day into a mini-luxury escape.
The Crew and Service
Many reviews rave about the knowledgeable and friendly crew. Captain Scott, for example, was singled out as being accommodating and attentive. Reviewers mention how hosts like Steve, Niamh, and Mark made the experience memorable by respecting requests, offering helpful suggestions, and providing good conversation.
One reviewer summed it up: “Captain Scott was a great host and was very accommodating to our requests. I would highly recommend this charter to anyone visiting St. Tropez.” This consistent praise for the crew’s professionalism and friendliness adds value to the experience.
The Practical Details
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Duration, Cost, and Group Size
Spanning roughly 4 hours, this trip hits a sweet spot for those who want a substantial taste of the Riviera without full-day commitments. The cost of $1,509.40 per group reflects the luxury and exclusivity—covering a boat for up to 8 adults, with a capacity of 10 if children are included.
When considering value, think about what’s included: snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the privacy of a fully personalized tour. Many travelers felt the price was justified given the beautiful locations and quality of service.
Booking and Availability
The tour is usually booked about 52 days in advance—a good idea if you want to secure your preferred date, especially in high season. Confirmations are quick, and cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours prior, which offers some peace of mind.
Meeting Points and Accessibility
The activity starts at the Riviera Yacht Charter – Saint Tropez location in Cogolin, with options for pickup and private transportation. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
Weather and Cancellation Policy
The experience is weather-dependent. If storms or bad weather make it unsafe to go out, the tour can be rescheduled or fully refunded. This flexibility is crucial in the unpredictable Mediterranean climate.
Real Travelers’ Voices
Reviews paint a consistent picture: spectacular scenery, attentive crew, and a relaxed vibe. For example, one guest said, “The boat was stunning and sleek and fit in with the glamour of Saint Tropez,” while another shared, “We enjoyed taking pictures and swimming in the clear waters—it was the best part of our trip.”
A few reviews highlight the value—from the helpfulness of crew members like Mark and Glen to the enjoyment of water toys and snacks. Many mention how the experience exceeded expectations, with several calling it a “highlight” of their trip.
One minor downside noted was an instance where a tour was canceled due to weather, but the refund process was smooth, and the communication was transparent.
The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?
This private yacht experience is perfect for small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility. It suits travelers who want to enjoy stunning coastal views, water activities, and a relaxed pace. If you’re a couple, a family, or friends wanting a memorable, customizable day on the water, this tour checks most boxes.
It’s especially worthwhile if you’re a fan of luxury, natural beauty, and good company. The guides and crew are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a full-day adventure, you might find this half-day trip to be a bit limited. Also, keep in mind the weather factor—bad weather can lead to cancellations, so having a flexible schedule helps.
FAQs
Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon departure, allowing you to fit this experience into your schedule.
What is included in the tour?
Snacks, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and the use of water toys like paddleboards are included in the price.
Is there a capacity limit?
Yes, the boat comfortably fits up to 8 adults, or 10 people if children are included, making it suitable for small groups.
What is the duration of the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time to enjoy several stops and water activities.
Are there optional upgrades?
Yes, you can add full catering, wine, or watersports for an even more luxurious experience.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to storms or heavy rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Riviera Yacht Charter in Cogolin, with options for pickup from nearby locations.
Is this suitable for families?
While the tour is designed for small groups and can include children, parents should consider the vessel’s features and activity options when planning.
Half Day Private Yacht Charter on our Pershing 40 in Saint Tropez
“This was such a great experience. Captain Scott was a great host and was very accommodating to our requests. I would highly recommend this charter …”
Final Thoughts
Going for a half-day private yacht charter in Saint Tropez offers a luxurious yet practical way to experience the Riviera’s stunning coast. With a sleek boat, customizable stops, and attentive crew, it’s a great choice if you’re after personalized service and memorable water adventures in a manageable timeframe.
It’s suited for those who want privacy, flexibility, and scenic beauty, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family. While weather can be a factor, the high praise from past guests about the crew and scenery suggests this is a worthwhile splurge for an upscale day on the water.
If you’re hoping to see Saint Tropez from a different perspective and enjoy the luxury of your own boat, this experience ticks many boxes—and it’s clear many travelers think so too.
