The Best Sailing Itineraries on the French Riviera

The French Riviera is a dream destination. A stunning natural setting, exceptional beaches, and glittering cities await you. But if you want to discover another side of the French Riviera, why not set sail on a yacht or sailboat and embark on a fantastic Mediterranean itinerary? You’ll be able to discover fascinating turquoise coves, enchanting sunsets, as well as charming hilltop villages.

Must-See Itineraries

The French Riviera is home to numerous wonders that you can easily discover aboard a boat. Several itineraries are available to enjoy the scenery and its marvels.

You can visit Porquerolles Island, which belongs to the Hyères Islands. This will allow you to observe a rich historical heritage (Sainte-Agathe Castle, forts of Grand Langoustier or Repentance). It’s also an ideal place to dream in front of sublime landscapes. Wild beaches await you there. The nature is untamed and will surprise you. You’ll observe breathtaking panoramas. Located in the Hyères Islands, it’s a paradise! The Oustaou-de-Diou cove will amaze you. The itinerary will lead you to the Langoustier Bay, where you’ll discover the Fort with its incredible views. You can even go diving to observe the wreck of a cement ship.

Another destination not to be missed is Sainte-Marguerite Island. Not far from Cannes, this island is very easily accessible. You can discover the famous Fort Royal where the renowned Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned, as well as the military building of the Convention Battery. The scenery is also an excellent reason to sail to this island, and by anchoring near the lighthouse, you’ll have the opportunity to discover exceptional landscapes.

Another site easily reachable by boat is the Esterel calanques. You’ll discover red porphyry cliffs that beautifully contrast with the turquoise tones of the sea and the deep green of the pines. This paradise is easily accessible from Saint-Raphaël. Many secret coves await you there.

Want even more? How about reaching the Embiez archipelago? From Sanary-sur-Mer, you’ll observe the islands of Grand and Petit Rouveau, an incredible bird sanctuary. The northeast coast will charm you with its Aleppo pines. Embiez Island is wild. You can make a stop at the marina. The beaches of Grand Gaou will offer you a breathtaking view.

You won’t want to miss visiting the Toulon harbor with its beautiful maritime heritage. You’ll appreciate the ports of Darse Nord and Vieille Darse, perfect for visiting the city of Toulon.

A Splendid Itinerary

If you have a week to complete a quality itinerary, here are two ideas. Start from Bormes-les-Mimosas and head east. Discover the Fort de Brégançon. Cap Bénat will showcase the French President’s residence and the medieval village. You’ll discover Levant Island and the Port-Cros Islands. It’s a wild island with a beautiful palm forest. The Bay of Port-Man awaits you with its beautiful seabed. Head to the Calanques of Cavalaire and then on to Saint-Tropez. You’ll discover the pretty town and can visit the night markets. Continue your itinerary by accessing the lakeside city of Port-Grimaud. Continue on to Sainte-Maxime and spend the night anchoring at Pointe des Sardinaux. From Sainte-Maxime, you’ll sail to Cannes and discover the superb Croisette. From Cannes, you’ll access the Lérins Islands. Sainte-Marguerite Island and Saint-Honorat Island are lovely gems not to be missed. Now it’s time to sail to Saint-Raphaël. You can stroll through the old town and marvel at the incredible red rock massif. Continue your itinerary by accessing the Anthéor Calanques where the landscape harmoniously blends the Esterel massif and the Mediterranean.

Another possible itinerary, again starting from Bormes-les-Mimosas, but this time heading west. You’ll reach Marseille passing through the island of Porquerolles, then the Bay of Toulon and Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer. From there, head to Bandol and stop for a moment to discover the islands of Embiez and Bendor. Once in Bandol, visit the town and then depart for Cassis. There you’ll discover superb calanques and can anchor for the night. It’s now time to reach Marseille. Start with the Marseille calanques, then explore the city and its unparalleled atmosphere.

It’s now time to return to your departure port.

Other itineraries are possible. You can thus reach Monaco or go further towards Corsica or even Italy.

Discover the French Riviera by boat

If you want to get off the beaten path and discover the French Riviera differently, there is a solution: rent a yacht or a sailboat. This will give you the opportunity to follow these itineraries and discover exceptional places.

To rent a boat in the best conditions, call on Arthaud Yachting. Our passionate team will be happy to advise you on the boat to choose according to your plans and the number of people. They are also there to guide you on which itinerary to choose.

With Arthaud Yachting, you have luxury boats at your disposal, fully equipped for your sea outings. You will therefore be able to comfortably follow an itinerary and benefit from our team’s guidance to learn more about the wonders you will see.