What boating license do I need to charter in France?

For boats over 45 ft (13.7m), you'll need an ICC or equivalent license. Check our detailed licensing guide for specific requirements based on boat size and type.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in France?

Sailboat rentals range from $2,000-$3,500/week in low season and $3,500-$5,500/week in high season. Catamarans cost $3,500-$6,000/week in low season and $6,000-$9,000/week in high season. Motor yachts start at $4,000/week in low season and can exceed $10,000/week in peak season.

When is the best time to sail in France?

The prime sailing season is May to October, with temperatures around 75-85°F (24-29°C). The Mediterranean coast offers consistent winds and sunny weather, perfect for exploring destinations like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and the Porquerolles Islands.

What additional costs should I expect for a French charter?

Budget for mandatory end-cleaning ($110-$550), security deposit insurance ($110-$380), marina fees (catamarans pay 50% more than monohulls), and local taxes. We offer flexible payment plans with 15% down payment and interest-free installments.

What support services do you offer with boat rentals?

We provide worldwide airport transfers , charter insurance , and can arrange professional skippers, provisioning, and other services through our local partners.

Can you help find specific boats not listed on your website?

Yes! We can source any professionally chartered boat worldwide, even if not in our database. Whether you're looking for a bareboat, skippered, or crewed charter, we'll find the perfect match for your group.

France Boat Rental ⛵ ► Affordable Yacht Charter

The Borrow A Boat Difference

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Find your perfect boat from our extensive fleet. We offer everything from small day boats to weekly sailing rentals and luxury yachts.

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Start your boating journey with just 15% down. Flexible payment options available for all budgets.

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Join our community of satisfied boaters. Rated 4.8/5 based on thousands of verified reviews.

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Book Your Boat in 3 Easy Steps

Booking a boat online has never been easier. Follow these simple steps to secure your dream boat today. Our team of experts ensures you get the boat you want; quickly and efficiently.

Select Your Ideal Boat Type

Three Ways to Sail in France

Explore France with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover France's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their France yacht rental experience.

•Complete control over sailing itinerary around France
•Privacy and intimacy for your group
•Opportunities to improve sailing skills in France's waters
•Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups

Show all bareboat rentals in France

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in France.

•Professional navigation and safety with local France expertise
•Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in France
•Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of France
•No license required for your France yacht charter adventure

Show all skippered rentals in France

Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in France with full professional service.

•Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your France boat journey
•Professional crew service tailored to your needs
•Gourmet dining experience featuring local France cuisine
•Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of France

Show all crewed charters in France

Discover the Magic of France with a Boat Charter

Experience the allure of French coastal living aboard your own chartered boat, from the glamorous French Riviera to the wild beauty of Brittany. France offers an incredible mix of Mediterranean charm, Atlantic adventure, and some of Europe's most stunning coastlines, with crystal-clear waters perfect for sailing almost year-round.

Why Book With Us?

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Style
Take advantage of our customer-friendly booking options, including free cancellation up to 30 days before departure on select boats. Split your payment into three easy installments with just 15% down, and enjoy exclusive early booking discounts that can save you up to 20% on your French sailing adventure.
The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor
Whether you're dreaming of a sleek sailboat in Saint-Tropez or a spacious catamaran in Corsica, we've got the right boat for you. Choose from over 2,000 boats across France, with prices starting from €200 per day for sailboats and €350 for catamarans, suitable for both experienced sailors and first-time charterers.
Year-Round Sailing Paradise
The French coast offers ideal sailing conditions from April through October, with the Mediterranean coast enjoying particularly mild weather. Popular routes include the glamorous stops along the Côte d'Azur, the historic ports of Brittany, and the pristine waters around Corsica.
Seamless Local Support
Our partnerships with local operators ensure a smooth sailing experience from start to finish. We offer reliable airport transfers through our trusted partner network, professional skipper services for those who prefer guided sailing, and comprehensive charter insurance through Sealogy for peace of mind.
Coastal Treasures and Hidden Gems
Discover secluded coves along the Calanques, drop anchor in chic ports like Antibes and Cannes, or explore the wild beauty of Brittany's coastline. Each region offers unique experiences, from world-class restaurants and vineyards to historic coastal towns and pristine beaches perfect for swimming.

The Borrow A Boat Promise

We Make Boating in France Easy

Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in France with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your France adventure today.

Secure online payments: Book your France boat rental with confidence through our protected payment system, ensuring your transaction is safe and worry-free.
Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in France, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your France yacht charter instantly, with immediate confirmation and all details at your fingertips.
Best offers on 1000s of boats: Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in France, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

Piqued Your Interest?

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France Yacht Charter Guide

A diverse sailing paradise from Mediterranean glamour to Atlantic adventures, featuring world-class cuisine and historic ports

Perfect for:

LuxuryCultureIsland Hopping

Information type
High and Low Season
Description
Peak season runs July through August with premium prices and crowds. Shoulder season offers better value with pleasant conditions from May to June and September to October.
Best Months to Book:
June, September
Information type
Marinas, Ports and Mooring
Description
Modern marinas dot both Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, with excellent facilities in places like Antibes and La Rochelle. Most ports offer both berths and mooring buoys.
Best Places to Stay:
Port Vauban Antibes, Port Grimaud, Port Camargue
Information type
Wind & Weather
Description
Mediterranean coast enjoys stable summer conditions with Mistral winds in spring. Atlantic coast experiences stronger winds and tidal variations.
Temperature & Winds:
65°F to 85°F, Force 2-6 Beaufort
Information type
Required Licenses and Certifications
Description
ICC (International Certificate of Competence) required for coastal waters. Additional permit needed for inland waterways.
Best License to Hold:
ICC, CEVNI Endorsement

Currency: EUR
Season: April - October

Sailing Conditions in France

France offers some of the world's most diverse sailing experiences, from the Mediterranean's azure waters to the Atlantic's dynamic coastline. With over 2,000 miles of coastline, three distinct sailing regions (Mediterranean, Atlantic, and English Channel), and sailing seasons that stretch from April through October, France presents perfect conditions for every type of sailor. The country combines historic ports, pristine beaches, and world-class facilities with excellent maritime infrastructure.

Wind Conditions

•Mediterranean Coast (French Riviera): Summer Mistral winds blow from the northwest at Beaufort force 4-7, typically stronger in afternoons. These conditions are most prevalent in the Gulf of Lion
•Atlantic Coast: Predominant westerly winds average Beaufort force 3-5, with stronger conditions in winter months. The Bay of Biscay can experience sudden weather changes
•Brittany Coast: Consistent westerly and northwesterly winds at Beaufort force 3-6, with stronger conditions around headlands
•English Channel: Variable winds predominantly from southwest, averaging Beaufort force 3-5, with occasional strong northerlies
•Corsica: Experiences localized wind effects, with westerly winds typically Beaufort force 3-4, stronger on the western coast

Sea State

•Mediterranean waters are typically calm with short, steep waves during Mistral winds, wave heights averaging 3-6 ft (1-2 m)
•Atlantic coast experiences longer ocean swells, typically 6-10 ft (2-3 m), larger in winter months
•Bay of Biscay can develop challenging conditions with waves up to 13 ft (4 m) during strong weather systems
•English Channel features moderate chop with tidal influences, average waves 3-6 ft (1-2 m)
•Corsican waters remain relatively calm on the east coast, while the west coast can be more challenging

Temperature

•Mediterranean Coast: Summer air temperatures 75-85°F (24-29°C), water temperatures 70-75°F (21-24°C)
•Atlantic Coast: Summer air temperatures 65-75°F (18-24°C), water temperatures 63-68°F (17-20°C)
•English Channel: Summer air temperatures 60-70°F (16-21°C), water temperatures 59-64°F (15-18°C)
•Spring and fall temperatures are mild, with air temperatures 55-65°F (13-18°C) across all regions
•Winter sailing is possible in the Mediterranean, with air temperatures 50-60°F (10-16°C)

Tides and Currents

•Mediterranean Coast: Minimal tidal range of 1-2 ft (0.3-0.6 m), weak currents except in specific passages
•Atlantic Coast: Significant tidal range of 10-13 ft (3-4 m), strong tidal currents especially around headlands
•English Channel: Large tidal range up to 23 ft (7 m) at spring tides in some areas
•Brittany Coast: Complex tidal streams with ranges up to 30 ft (9 m) in places like St. Malo
•Notable strong currents in the Raz de Sein, Chenal du Four, and around Channel Islands

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

•Beginners: Côte d'Azur between Antibes and Saint-Tropez (protected waters, predictable conditions), Gulf of Morbihan (sheltered waters), La Rochelle area (good facilities, moderate conditions)
•Intermediate: Corsica's east coast, Atlantic coast between La Rochelle and Arcachon, Brittany's south coast, French Riviera during mild conditions
•Advanced: Western Brittany coast (challenging tides and currents), Bay of Biscay crossings, Corsica's west coast, Gulf of Lion during Mistral conditions

Best Time to Rent a Boat in France

France offers diverse sailing experiences across three distinctive coastlines: the Mediterranean's azure waters, the Atlantic's dramatic swells, and the English Channel's historic ports. From the glamorous French Riviera to the rugged Brittany coast, sailors can explore over 3,000 miles of coastline featuring world-class marinas, sheltered archipelagos, and pristine beaches.

High Season (July and August)

Pros & advantages: Reliable Mediterranean weather with temperatures 75-85°F (24-29°C) and steady afternoon thermal winds perfect for day sailing; All marinas, restaurants, and sailing facilities operating at full capacity, especially along the Côte d'Azur; Vibrant coastal festivals and regattas in major ports like Saint-Tropez and Marseille provide exciting social atmosphere
Cons & disadvantages: Extremely crowded marinas require booking weeks ahead, particularly in popular ports like Antibes and Cannes; Peak season prices increase by 30-50% for berths and charters, with minimum week-long bookings often required; Strong Mistral winds in the Gulf of Lion can create challenging conditions for less experienced sailors

Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)

Pros & advantages: Pleasant temperatures 65-75°F (18-24°C) with steady winds and fewer afternoon thunderstorms than summer; Significantly reduced marina fees and better berth availability in premium locations like Port Grimaud; Excellent sailing conditions in Brittany with moderate winds and less crowded anchorages around Belle-Île
Cons & disadvantages: Variable weather patterns can bring unexpected rain and wind shifts, particularly in the Atlantic regions; Some coastal facilities and restaurants operate on reduced hours, especially in smaller ports; Water temperatures can be chilly for swimming, averaging 63-68°F (17-20°C) in Mediterranean waters

Low Season (November through April)

Pros & advantages: Substantial discounts on charter boats and virtually guaranteed marina availability throughout the coast; Dramatic sailing conditions for experienced crews, with challenging passages in the Bay of Biscay; Authentic local experience in coastal towns without tourist crowds, especially in Corsica and Provence
Cons & disadvantages: Frequent strong winds including the Mistral and Tramontane can exceed 40 knots in Mediterranean regions; Many coastal facilities operate limited hours or close entirely, requiring careful voyage planning; Cold temperatures 45-60°F (7-16°C) and frequent rain make sailing uncomfortable for recreational cruising

The shoulder seasons offer the best balance of comfortable conditions and value for most sailors, with May-June being particularly ideal for Mediterranean cruising. July-August provides the most reliable weather but requires advance planning and higher budgets to manage peak season challenges. Experienced sailors seeking adventure and solitude will find excellent opportunities during the low season, particularly in protected waters like the Calanques near Marseille, though winter sailing demands advanced weather routing and self-sufficiency.

Which Boat to Charter in France?

When planning a yacht charter in France, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a quick overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in France:

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

•Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
•Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
•More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts

View 284 available sailboats for rent in France

Houseboat

Floating vacation homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

•Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
•Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
•Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities

View 249 available houseboats for rent in France

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

•Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
•Features spacious living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

View 166 available catamarans for rent in France

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

•Excellent for day trips and water sports
•Superior stability and safety in various conditions
•Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers

View 130 available RIBs for rent in France

Motor Yacht

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

•Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
•Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
•Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence

View 117 available motorboats for rent in France

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

•Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
•Perfect for quick coastal exploration
•Easy to handle with great maneuverability

View 59 available speedboats for rent in France

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

•Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
•Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
•Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising

View 5 available power catamarans for rent in France

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

•Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
•Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
•Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experience

View 2 available gulets for rent in France

France Yacht Charter FAQ

What boating license do I need to charter in France?
For boats over 45 ft (13.7m), you'll need an ICC or equivalent license. Check our detailed licensing guide for specific requirements based on boat size and type.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in France?
Sailboat rentals range from $2,000-$3,500/week in low season and $3,500-$5,500/week in high season. Catamarans cost $3,500-$6,000/week in low season and $6,000-$9,000/week in high season. Motor yachts start at $4,000/week in low season and can exceed $10,000/week in peak season.
When is the best time to sail in France?
The prime sailing season is May to October, with temperatures around 75-85°F (24-29°C). The Mediterranean coast offers consistent winds and sunny weather, perfect for exploring destinations like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and the Porquerolles Islands.
What additional costs should I expect for a French charter?
Budget for mandatory end-cleaning ($110-$550), security deposit insurance ($110-$380), marina fees (catamarans pay 50% more than monohulls), and local taxes. We offer flexible payment plans with 15% down payment and interest-free installments.
What support services do you offer with boat rentals?
We provide worldwide airport transfers, charter insurance, and can arrange professional skippers, provisioning, and other services through our local partners.
Can you help find specific boats not listed on your website?
Yes! We can source any professionally chartered boat worldwide, even if not in our database. Whether you're looking for a bareboat, skippered, or crewed charter, we'll find the perfect match for your group.

Need additional help?

Did not find what you were looking for? We are here waiting for you to contact us!