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The French Riviera, otherwise known as the Cote d’Azur, is a dreamy destination you must add to your bucket list. This charming coastline provides everything that you may be looking for in your next vacation: picturesque beaches, authentic French villages, Caribbean-like coves, and of course plenty of sailing options.
On the French Riviera, anything is possible! And at Click&Boat, we like to say that it is up to you to define your own version of the French Riviera. So whether you would like to start your itinerary in Cannes or Marseille, or maybe even Hyeres – we can help you put some ideas together, for a one-of-a-kind sailing experience!
When to set sail in the French Riviera?
- From the beginning of June to the end of September, the temperature rarely drops below 60°F (15°C), and the highs are often well over 86°F (30°C) during July and August. The summer months are typically the most popular time to set sail due to warm weather and waters.
- For water temperatures: June remains on the cooler side with waters around 66°F (19°C). But we promise you this is still warm enough to enjoy a swim or snorkel! Followed by July at 75°F (24°C), August 73°F (23°C), September 75°F (24°C), where the Mediterranean is at its warmest.
- The best time to visit the area without the crowds of high season is during the shoulder months of April/May and October.
Our selection of sailing routes:
- Week-long Cruises – 2 Options
- Weekend Escapes- 2 Options
- Day Trips – 4 Options
There are of course many more options when it comes to sailing routes in the French Riviera as it boasts over 70 miles of coastline. These are just a few of our favorites to inspire you.
One Week Sailing Itineraries on the French Riviera
Marseille is a stunning seaside city, one of the most famous cities in France, and is home to some jaw-dropping scenery. To the east side of the French Riviera you will find Cannes, where elegance is a part of life – full of festivities, superyachts, and luxury. The two are similar in many points, most notably that no matter which you choose to sail from, amazing sailing routes await you. Here are two options for a one-week cruise on the French Riviera. And well, if you had two weeks, you wouldn’t even have to choose!
Option 1- Marseille – Frioul – Calanques – Hyeres Islands – St. Tropez – Marseille
Itinerary: Marseille-> Frioul Islands-> Calanques of Marseille-> Hyères-> Porquerolles-> Port-Cros-> Saint-Tropez or Cavalaire-sur-Mer-> Marseille
Starting Point: Marseille, the main city in the South of France. West of Toulon and La Ciotat, east of Martigues.
Why? If you are in search of some of the most beautiful spots in France, then this is the itinerary for you. From the Calanques de Marseille to the snorkelling paradises of Port-Cros and Porquerolles, you will not be disappointed. Enjoy a week on board with family and friends sailing at your own leisure from one stunning anchorage to the next!
Nautical Distances: 138.5 nautical miles (126.5 nm if you choose Cavalaire over Saint-Tropez) covered in 7 days, for an average of 19.78/18.07 miles per day.
Option 2- Cannes- Lerin Islands – Cavalaire – Porquerolles – Frejus – Cannes
Itinerary: Cannes-> Lerins Islands-> Cavalaire-sur-Mer-> Port-Cros-> Porquerolles-> Saint-Tropez-> Fréjus-Golfe de la Napoule-> Cannes
Starting Point: Cannes, the elegant Provencal town whose Croisette is a must-see. And located to the west of Antibes.
Why? Here is an itinerary that has everything to satisfy you. Eager for water sports? You will make a round trip from Cannes passing by incredible islands (Lerins, Hyeres), Saint-Tropez, and Fréjus perfect for wakeboarding and water skiing. Want to relax? Grab some ice cream on the island of Porquerolles and relax on the beach. Add to that the combination of Provencal food and sunshine and you can’t go wrong!
Nautical Distances: 99.5 nautical miles covered in 7 days, for an average of 14.21 miles per day.
Weekend Sailing Itineraries on the French Riviera
Some other amazing options are the islands close to Hyères and Cannes. Here you will be able to experience the French Riviera in all of its glory. It is weekends like this that you never forget and in fact end up making yourself the promise that you will return next year.
Option 1- A Golden Weekend
Itinerary: Hyeres-> Port Cros-> Porquerolles-> Hyeres
Starting Point: Hyères, one of the leading tourist destinations of the South of France. East of Toulon, west of Saint-Tropez.
Why? The lifestyle here is intrinsically intertwined with being by the water. What better way to spend a weekend here than by visiting the two most beautiful islands in the area? Whether you want to try your hand at watersports or relax on the beach. You will find every opportunity on this short but packed weekend itinerary.
Nautical Distances: 22 nautical miles covered in 2 days, for an average of 11 miles per day.
Option 2- The Perfect Trio
Itinerary: Cannes> Saint-Raphaël-> Lerins Islands-> Cannes
Starting Point: Cannes, which you can visit with great pleasure all year round, festival or not. Near Juan-les-Pins and Antibes.
Why? For a weekend you will understand why this is such a unique part of France that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Cannes, Saint-Raphaël, and the Lérins Islands, all incredible opportunities to create life-long memories. You will enjoy sailing past legendary archipelagos, Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, which are both natural and cultural heritages.
Nautical Distances: 30 nautical miles covered in 2 days, for an average of 15 miles per day.
Day Trips on the French Riviera
Day trips are a great option when you are short on time in the Cote D’Azur. Marseille, Hyères, Saint-Tropez, or Cannes, are ideal starting points . There is only one thing left to do: enjoy!
- Marseille-> Frioul Islands-> Morgiou Blue Grotto->Marseille: 16.5 nautical miles round trip
- Hyères-> Port-Cros-> Hyères: 22 nautical miles round trip
- Saint-Tropez->Pampelonne->Saint-Tropez: 6 nautical miles round trip
- Cannes-> Lerins Islands-> Cannes: 6 nautical miles round trip
