Private Yacht Charter with Skipper on The French Riviera

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the glamorous coastlines of Nice, Villefranche, and Monaco from a luxurious boat, this private yacht experience might catch your eye. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but with a 5.0 rating from four reviews and an extensive lineup of features, it’s clear this boat ride leaves a good impression. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful escape to enjoy the sun and sea, this trip offers a lot to love.

One of the things we really appreciate is how all-inclusive it is—your captain, fuel, and soft drinks are covered, so no surprise costs piling up during your trip. Plus, the itinerary promises some of the most iconic sights along the Côte d’Azur, from the colorful streets of Villefranche to the shimmering waters of Monaco. That said, a possible consideration is the price point—at over two thousand dollars for a group of up to eight, it’s not exactly budget-friendly. But if you’re after a private, relaxed, and scenic escape with the flexibility to customize, this tour could be well worth the splurge. It’s perfect if you’re traveling in a small group, want a touch of luxury, and love the idea of seeing some of the most striking coastlines from the water.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Captain, fuel, soft drinks, towels, and life jackets are included, simplifying your day.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Villefranche, Beaulieu, Monaco, and Nice let you enjoy diverse and picturesque spots.
• Optional Add-Ons: Snacks, drinks, cheese, and fruits are available for purchase, allowing you to customize your onboard experience.
• Well-Reviewed: With a perfect 5-star rating from recent reviews, many guests found it memorable and worth the cost.
• Time & Group Size: Four hours of cruising, with a maximum of 8 people, making for an intimate experience.
• Weather Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible but generally offer full refunds or rescheduling.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Timing

The tour begins at 2:00 PM, perfect for catching the afternoon sun and enjoying the coast in softer light. You’ll meet your skipper, who is dedicated solely to your group, allowing for a personalized journey. The activity lasts around four hours, which is enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What to Expect When You Board

Once on board, you’ll be greeted with a private yacht tailored just for your group. All the essentials are included—beach towels, life jackets, and snorkeling gear—so you can really make the most of your time in the water. The captain will take care of the navigation, leaving you free to relax, sunbathe, or chat with friends while enjoying the stunning vistas.

The Itinerary and Sights

This cruise is designed to showcase a mix of famous and hidden gems along the coast. Your route includes Villefranche sur Mer, known for its charming harbor and colorful old town. You’ll glide past the glamorous Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Villa Kerylos, both with striking Greek-style architecture that adds a touch of elegance to your views.

Next, you’ll cruise past Fossette Beach and Plage Mala, two paradisiacal spots favored by locals for their crystal-clear waters and seclusion. Be prepared to stop here for swimming and snorkeling—the water is renowned for its clarity and calmness, making it ideal for underwater exploration.

The journey then takes you to Monaco, where the iconic Monte Carlo Casino and luxurious yachts create an unmistakable scene of wealth and leisure. This part of the cruise offers a fantastic chance to see the principality from the water, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Finally, you’ll return towards Nice, enjoying the views of grand hotels like the Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat and Royal Riviera, which showcase the timeless elegance of the French Riviera.

What Travelers Love

From reviews, it’s clear that the breathtaking views and peaceful swimming spots are highlights. One guest called their experience “a beautiful experience that will be remembered for a lifetime,” emphasizing the memorable nature of the scenery and the professional skipper, Charles, who made the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Another reviewer appreciated the flexibility and the chance to relax—swimming, sunbathing, or just gazing at the coast while sipping soft drinks. The included snorkeling equipment enables you to explore the waters up close, adding a layer of adventure to this leisurely cruise.

The Food & Drink Options

Though the base package includes soft drinks and water, there are plenty of ways to enhance your experience with add-on options. You might opt for cheese platters, fresh fruits, or light snacks, which can turn your cruise into a mini picnic. Alcoholic beverages are available if you’re over 18—though these are not included in the base price, so plan accordingly if you want bubbly or cocktails onboard.

Price & Value

At $2,257.32 for up to 8 people, this experience costs roughly $282 per person. When you consider it’s a private tour with a dedicated skipper, the convenience, and the stunning scenery, it offers good value for those seeking exclusivity. Compared to other shared boat trips, this private charter ensures no strangers are involved, and the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences.

Practical Considerations

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age of five years old and no pets allowed. It’s geared more toward those who value privacy and personalized service over group-based adventures. Keep in mind, weather can impact your plans—if conditions aren’t suitable, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded. Also, be aware that lunch isn’t included, but options are available for additional purchase.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This yacht experience is perfect for small groups, couples, or families wanting an exclusive day on the water. It’s an ideal choice if you value privacy, flexibility, and stunning scenery all wrapped into one. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to explore the French Riviera without the hassle of booking multiple tours or dealing with crowds, this charter fits the bill.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private yacht with a skipper, fuel, bottled water, soft drinks, beach towels, and life jackets. You also get use of snorkeling equipment.

How many people can join?
Up to 8 persons can participate in a single booking, making it intimate and ideal for small groups.

What is the starting time?
The tour starts at 2:00 PM and lasts approximately four hours.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary includes stops at Villefranche, Beaulieu, Monaco, and Nice, but the route and stops are designed for this experience—it’s flexible within the planned stops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and alcoholic drinks are not included but can be added for an extra charge via the available menu.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather, but if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over age 5 are welcome. Keep in mind, no pets are allowed onboard.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 36 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 4 days before the scheduled date. Cancellations within three days are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

This private yacht cruise along the French Riviera offers a balanced mix of luxury, scenic beauty, and flexibility. It’s a wonderful way to see some of the most photogenic spots from a different perspective, all while enjoying personalized service and the comfort of your own vessel. If you’re after a memorable, peaceful, and customizable day on the water with friends or family, this experience is likely to deliver.

While the cost isn’t insignificant, the exclusivity, stunning views, and ease of planning make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a special day. Just remember to plan ahead, check the weather forecast, and consider adding some snacks or drinks to elevate your trip even further.

Would we recommend it? Absolutely—if you want a private, scenic, and relaxing way to explore the French Riviera, this yacht adventure is a solid choice.