Saint-Tropez: Private Classic RIVA Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Saint-Tropez from the water, this private Riva boat tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, many travelers rave about cruising the French Riviera on a vintage boat that exudes luxury and style. You’ll get to enjoy the turquoise waters, explore bays and ports, and perhaps even take a refreshing swim — all in an intimate, bespoke setting.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: first, the luxury Riva boat from 1962, which isn’t just a vessel but a piece of floating history, famously used by Brigitte Bardot. Second, the personalized nature of the tour, allowing you to tailor your experience — whether that’s stopping for a swim, visiting glamorous ports, or just soaking up the scenery.

On the flip side, a key consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent — bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Also, with a maximum of four passengers, it’s an intimate experience but not suited for larger groups. This trip would suit couples, friends, or small families who want a private, stylish way to see the Riviera and enjoy some relaxation on the water.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private boat with a maximum of four guests, ensuring personalized attention.
• Historic Vessel: The boat is an original Super Florida from 1962, famous for its style and movie star connections.
• Flexible Itinerary: Tour can be tailored to your interests, including stops, swimming, and preferred pick-up points.
• Stunning Views & Swimming: Cruise along the bays and enjoy swimming in the clear Mediterranean waters.
• Luxury and Style: Arrive in style on a boat that oozes vintage glamour, perfect for photo ops.
• Expert Guidance: The captain is knowledgeable and friendly, making sure you get the most out of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction

If jetting around the French Riviera from a vintage boat sounds appealing, then this Saint-Tropez Private Riva Boat Tour catches your eye. It’s marketed as an elegant, bespoke experience that lets you soak in the Riviera’s beauty from the comfort of a classic vessel. While I haven’t been on this exact tour myself, the glowing reviews suggest it’s a real treat for those who appreciate a mix of history, luxury, and personalized service.

Two aspects I find particularly appealing are the boat itself — a fully renovated 1962 Super Florida, identical to the one Brigitte Bardot used — and the customizable itinerary. Whether you want to cruise past the superyachts or take a quick dip in those stunning waters, this tour offers flexibility that many other options don’t. Plus, the captain’s friendly, attentive manner clearly makes a difference, turning a simple boat ride into a memorable moment.

Of course, there are a couple of things to think about. The tour’s weather dependency means you might need to be flexible with your plans. And with only four spots available, it’s not a large-scale group experience — so if you’re traveling with family or friends, it’s ideal for small groups seeking intimacy and exclusivity. If you’re after a stylish, relaxing day on the water with a dash of Hollywood glamour, this is worth considering.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Vintage Riva Boat

The centerpiece of this experience is the Riva Super Florida from 1962. This boat isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s a piece of maritime history. Fully renovated and in excellent condition, it offers a smooth, stylish ride that turns heads wherever you go. The fact that it’s the same model used by Brigitte Bardot isn’t just a fun trivia point — it adds an element of star-studded allure to your day.

Travelers consistently mention how gorgeous the boat is, both in photos and in person. It’s a perfect setting for photos, whether you’re capturing the shimmering water, the sleek design, or just soaking in the feeling of riding on something so iconic.

The Bespoke Itinerary

One of the biggest draws here is the flexibility. Every tour is customized to your wishes, which means you can prioritize what’s most interesting to you. Want to cruise past the luxurious yachting scene in Saint Tropez? That’s easy. Fancy a quick swim in the crystal-clear waters? You can do that. Interested in visiting Port Grimaud — the “Venice of Provence”? That’s also an option.

Reviewers love how the captain asks about their interests and takes the time to personalize the experience, making it feel less like a standard tour and more like a private adventure.

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Scenic & Cultural Highlights

The Gulf of Saint Tropez is packed with over 12 bays and 20 points of interest, which means there’s plenty to see and explore. Typical routes might include cruising alongside opulent yachts at anchor, meandering through the canals of Port Grimaud, or heading towards the famous Canebiers or Billionaire Bay.

The combination of scenic beauty and glamorous ports means you get a balanced view of both nature and culture. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, especially the turquoise waters and the charming port villages.

Swimming & Relaxation

If you’re a fan of taking a dip, you’ll love the opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean’s clear waters. It’s optional, but many guests take advantage of it, especially those staying in the area and looking for a refreshing break from sightseeing. The tour includes towels, making it easy to hop in and out of the water comfortably.

The Experience of Arrival

Arriving by Riva isn’t just about transportation; it’s about making an entrance. It’s a stylish way to arrive at Saint Tropez or Port Grimaud, setting the tone for a luxurious day. This is particularly appealing for those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who appreciates a bit of cinematic nostalgia.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Start

The tour offers multiple pickup points, including Port de Sainte Maxime, Port des Marines de Cogolin, and Port of Saint Tropez. This flexibility helps make the experience seamless, especially if you’re staying nearby or arriving by other means.

Once aboard, your captain will give a brief overview of the plan, and then the cruising begins. The first part of the journey is often a guided tour that lasts around 1.5 hours, giving you a good sense of the different bays and points of interest.

The Bays and Ports

You’ll cruise through the bays and ports of Saint Tropez, Port Grimaud, and Sainte Maxime. Each location has its own charm — Saint Tropez with its glamorous quayside, Port Grimaud with its Venice-like canals, and Sainte Maxime with its relaxed vibe.

The guide might point out luxury yachts, celebrity homes, or scenic islands, making the cruise both scenic and informative. One reviewer mentioned how they loved cruising alongside superyachts at anchor, getting a glimpse of the high-end lifestyle.

Stopovers and Swimming

You have the option to stop for a swim or just cruise and soak up the scenery. Many guests choose to jump into the turquoise waters near Billionaire Bay or near Brigitte Bardot’s former house, which adds a personal touch of history and glamour.

You might also enjoy stopping at beach restaurants along the way for a cocktail or a leisurely lunch, although meals and drinks aren’t included in the price.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes at one of the initial pickup points, with options to disembark at Saint Tropez or other ports. The entire experience usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploring the Riviera without taking up the whole day.

Pricing & Value

At around $503 for up to four people, this tour might seem pricey compared to larger group options. However, considering the private nature, the vintage boat, and the personalized service, many see it as great value. For a special occasion or a romantic day, the experience delivers a high-end, intimate adventure that’s hard to match.

The inclusion of a qualified captain, fuel, bottled water, and towels adds to the feeling that you’re getting a well-rounded, hassle-free experience. The fact that you’re paying for a fully private outing means no sharing with strangers — just you, your guests, and the captain.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and your camera. The sun on the water can be intense, and you’ll want to capture the views.
• If you want to swim, pack your swimwear and towels. The boat provides towels, but your own might be more comfortable.
• Dress comfortably — a light layer or jacket is good if the weather cools down.
• Be aware that the tour is weather-dependent; if the weather isn’t cooperating, your booking might be canceled or rescheduled.
• The boat is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private Riva boat experience is ideally suited for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends wanting a stylish day, or travelers celebrating a special occasion. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exclusivity, vintage style, and scenic cruising. If you’re looking for an activity that combines a touch of Hollywood glamour with relaxed, flexible sightseeing, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less suitable for large groups, families with young children (given the small boat and sea conditions), or travelers who prefer a guided, multi-hour excursion with meals included.

Final Thoughts

This Saint-Tropez private Riva boat tour offers a fairly unique way to enjoy the Riviera — in style, comfort, and exclusivity. The vintage boat, customized itinerary, and friendly captain promise a memorable experience that many reviewers have found to be a highlight of their trip. While the cost may be on the higher side for some, the intimacy, historic charm, and scenic beauty make it worth considering if you want a special day on the water.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want an elegant way to see the coast, this tour provides a blend of luxury and laid-back fun. It’s perfect for those who truly appreciate a stylish, personalized adventure in one of France’s most glamorous settings.

FAQ

Is this boat tour suitable for children? The tour is designed for small groups with a maximum of four guests, and the boat’s size and conditions make it less suitable for young children. It’s best for older kids or adults comfortable on the water.

Can I swim during the tour? Yes, swimming is optional, and you should bring your own swimwear and towels if you plan to take a dip. The tour provides towels for your convenience.

What are the pickup options? You can choose from five pickup locations including Port de Sainte Maxime, Port des Marines de Cogolin, and Port of Saint Tropez, making it easy to start your trip nearby.

How long does the tour last? The experience generally lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on your preferences and the itinerary.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes a private Riva boat, qualified captain, boat fuel, bottled water, and towels.

Are meals and drinks included? No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can stop at beach restaurants if you wish.

Is this tour weather-dependent? Yes, bad weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so it’s best to check the forecast.

Can I pay later or cancel? Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the boat comfortable? Absolutely. The Riva Super Florida from 1962 is fully renovated, in great condition, and offers a smooth, stylish ride.

If you’re after a private, stylish way to explore Saint-Tropez’s bays, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a memorable, personalized experience with a touch of vintage jet-set glamour.

You can check availability for your dates here: