What boating license do I need to charter in Nice?

A valid ICC or equivalent license is required for bareboat charters in France. For full details on accepted licenses and requirements, check our licensing guide . Alternatively, we can arrange a qualified skipper for you.

What are the typical boat rental prices in Nice?

Prices vary by season: Sailboats range from €250-€400/day in low season to €400-€600/day in summer. Catamarans cost €500-€700/day low season, €800-€1,200/day high season. Motor yachts start from €700/day off-peak to €1,500+/day peak season.

When is the best time to sail in Nice?

The prime sailing season is May to October, with temperatures around 20-28°C and reliable winds. The Mistral wind is strongest in spring and autumn. The French Riviera offers excellent routes to Monaco, Cannes and the Lérins Islands.

What additional costs should I expect for a Nice charter?

Budget for mandatory end-cleaning (€100-€500), security deposit (or insurance from €100-€350), and marina fees (typically €50-€150/night for monohulls, 50% more for catamarans). Local tourist tax is approximately €2.20 per person/night.

What booking flexibility do you offer?

Select boats offer extended free cancellation. We provide a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% initial deposit. Many boats feature exclusive discounts, especially in shoulder seasons.

What support services are available in Nice?

We offer airport transfers and comprehensive charter insurance . We can arrange provisioning, professional skippers, and any additional services you need for your charter.

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

Yes! We can source any professionally chartered boat in Nice and worldwide, whether listed or not. We offer options for all experience levels - from first-time sailors to seasoned crews, available bareboat, skippered, or fully crewed.

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Three Ways to Sail in Nice

Explore Nice 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 Nice's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

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

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

Show all bareboat rentals in Nice

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

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

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

Show all skippered rentals in Nice

Fully Crewed

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

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

Show all crewed charters in Nice

Discover the Magic of Nice with a Boat Charter

Set sail from the glamorous French Riviera's crown jewel, where the azure Mediterranean meets dramatic Alpine foothills. Nice offers an unparalleled mix of cultural richness and nautical adventure, with its historic port serving as the perfect launching point for exploring the Côte d'Azur's hidden coves, prestigious coastal towns, and crystalline waters.

Why Book With Us?

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans
Book your Nice charter with confidence thanks to our customer-friendly policies. Enjoy free cancellation up to 30 days before departure on selected boats, plus the option to spread your payment across three instalments with just 15% down. We regularly offer exclusive discounts on charters during shoulder season months like May and September.
The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor
Whether you're dreaming of a sleek motor yacht to zip between Monaco and Cannes, or a comfortable sailing catamaran for family cruising to Antibes, we've got you covered. Our extensive fleet ranges from affordable 32-foot sailboats starting at £200 per day to luxury motor yachts for special occasions.
Year-Round Sailing Paradise
Nice's sheltered position and mild Mediterranean climate make it ideal for sailing from April through October. The morning Mistral winds offer perfect sailing conditions, while afternoons bring gentle sea breezes ideal for coastal cruising. Popular routes include day trips to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or multi-day adventures to the Lérins Islands.
Seamless Local Support
Our partnerships ensure a smooth sailing experience from start to finish. We offer reliable airport transfers from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, professional skipper services for those who prefer guided sailing, and comprehensive charter insurance through Sealogy for peace of mind on the water.
Explore the French Riviera Your Way
Chart your own course along the stunning Côte d'Azur coastline. Drop anchor in secluded bays near Villefranche-sur-Mer, enjoy lunch in Saint-Tropez's legendary port, or discover hidden snorkelling spots along Cap d'Antibes. Our local knowledge ensures you won't miss any of the region's nautical treasures.

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

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Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in Nice, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your Nice 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 Nice, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

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Nice Yacht Charter Guide

Glamorous French Riviera hub with stunning coastline and year-round sailing opportunities

Perfect for:

LuxuryCultureGastronomy

Information type
High and Low Season
Description
Peak season runs July through August with premium rates and crowds. Shoulder season offers better value with pleasant conditions from April to June and September to October.
Best Months to Book:
May, June, September
Information type
Marinas, Ports and Mooring
Description
Modern marina facilities with excellent services and berths. Port of Nice and Port Lympia offer comprehensive amenities and good protection.
Best Places to Stay:
Port Lympia, Port de Nice, Port de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Information type
Wind & Weather
Description
Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Reliable afternoon sea breezes and occasional Mistral winds provide excellent sailing conditions.
Temperature & Winds:
18°C to 28°C, Force 2-5 Beaufort
Information type
Required Licenses and Certifications
Description
ICC (International Certificate of Competence) is required for sailing in French waters. VHF radio license recommended for communication.
Best License to Hold:
ICC, RYA Day Skipper or higher, VHF Radio License

Currency: EUR
Season: April - October

Sailing Conditions in Nice

Nice, situated along the stunning French Riviera, offers exceptional Mediterranean sailing conditions with its blend of protected bays and challenging open waters. The primary sailing season spans from April to October, with optimal conditions from June to September. The area combines glamorous coastal attractions with pristine natural beauty, making it a premier sailing destination for both leisure cruisers and competitive sailors.

Wind Conditions

•The Mistral wind dominates the region, typically blowing from the northwest at Beaufort force 4-6, particularly strong in winter and early spring
•Summer thermal winds are predictable, usually starting around 11:00 and building to force 3-4 by early afternoon
•The Bay of Angels experiences reliable sea breezes from May to September, typically force 2-3 in the morning, increasing to force 4 by afternoon
•Eastern winds (Levant) are common in autumn, creating moderate sailing conditions of force 3-4
•The Villefranche Bay area offers more sheltered conditions, typically experiencing force 1-2 winds even when stronger elsewhere

Sea State

•The Bay of Angels typically experiences calm to moderate waves of 0.5-1.5m during summer months
•The outer waters beyond Cap Ferrat can see swells of 2-3m during Mistral conditions
•Villefranche Bay provides naturally sheltered waters with typically calm conditions and waves under 0.5m
•The area between Nice and Antibes can experience choppy conditions with wind-against-current situations
•Eastern approaches to Nice harbour can become rough during strong Levant winds with waves up to 2m

Temperature

•Summer air temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (June to September)
•Winter temperatures typically range from 8°C to 14°C (December to February)
•Sea temperature peaks at 23-25°C in August
•Water temperature remains above 15°C throughout winter
•Spring and autumn see pleasant temperatures between 18-22°C

Tides and Currents

•The Mediterranean has minimal tidal range, typically less than 0.3m in Nice
•The Ligurian Current flows westward along the coast at 0.5-1 knots
•Local currents around Cap Ferrat can reach 2 knots during strong winds
•Port entrance currents can be significant during severe weather
•Counter-currents in the Bay of Angels can develop during strong offshore winds

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

•Beginners: The protected waters of Villefranche Bay offer ideal learning conditions with minimal waves and predictable winds. The eastern part of the Bay of Angels also provides good shelter for novice sailors
•Intermediate: The main Bay of Angels area and routes to Antibes offer good challenging conditions without excessive exposure. The waters around Cap d'Ail provide excellent practice for handling varying wind conditions
•Advanced: The offshore waters beyond Cap Ferrat and routes to Monaco present challenging conditions suitable for experienced sailors. The open water passages towards the Lérins Islands offer exciting blue-water sailing opportunities

Best Time to Rent a Boat in Nice

Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, Nice offers exceptional Mediterranean sailing with its stunning coastline and proximity to glamorous ports. The Bay of Angels provides protected waters, whilst the surrounding Côte d'Azur presents opportunities for both coastal cruising and offshore adventures. The region's unique microclimate, influenced by the Maritime Alps, creates distinct sailing conditions throughout the year.

High Season (July and August)

Pros & advantages: Reliable thermal winds with afternoon sea breezes of 10-15 knots perfect for day sailing along the coast; Warm sea temperatures around 24°C ideal for anchoring in beautiful bays like Villefranche-sur-Mer; Maximum operating hours for marinas and sailing facilities with excellent access to local regattas
Cons & disadvantages: Peak tourist season means limited berth availability in popular ports like Port Lympia; book months ahead; Higher charter prices and marina fees, particularly during events like Nice Jazz Festival; Crowded anchorages between Nice and Antibes require early arrival to secure prime spots

Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)

Pros & advantages: Pleasant temperatures of 20-25°C with steady mistral winds offering excellent sailing conditions; Reduced marina fees and better availability for overnight stays in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat; Perfect conditions for longer passages to Corsica with stabilised weather patterns
Cons & disadvantages: Occasional strong mistral winds of 25+ knots require careful passage planning and experience; Spring rainfall can bring reduced visibility, particularly during May morning departures; Variable shoulder season weather patterns demand more flexible itinerary planning

Low Season (November to April)

Pros & advantages: Significantly reduced rates for long-term berths and winter maintenance opportunities; Clear, crisp sailing days with dramatic coastal views of snow-capped Maritime Alps; Excellent conditions for advanced sailors with challenging winds and peaceful harbours
Cons & disadvantages: Strong winter storms and northerly winds can create rough seas above 3 metres; Limited facilities with many seasonal restaurants and services closed in smaller ports; Shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures (8-15°C) restrict sailing time windows

The shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October offer the best balance of comfortable conditions and value for most sailors, with reliable winds and fewer crowds. July and August provide ideal conditions for families and novice sailors but require advance planning due to high demand. Winter sailing from November to April suits experienced sailors seeking challenging conditions and solitude, though requires careful weather monitoring and self-sufficiency. For the optimal combination of weather, value, and accessibility, plan your Nice sailing adventure during late September when the summer crowds have departed but Mediterranean conditions remain sublime.

Which Boat to Charter in Nice?

When embarking on a yacht charter in Nice, 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 concise overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Nice:

Motorboat

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 27 available motorboats to rent in Nice

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 8 available RIBs to rent in Nice

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 7 available speedboats to rent in Nice

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 3 available sailboats to rent in Nice

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 ample living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

No Catamaran available in Nice, view other locations

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

No Motor Catamaran available in Nice, view other locations

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 experienc

No Gulet available in Nice, view other locations

Houseboat

Floating holiday 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

No Houseboat available in Nice, view other locations

Nice Yacht Charter FAQ

What boating license do I need to charter in Nice?
A valid ICC or equivalent license is required for bareboat charters in France. For full details on accepted licenses and requirements, check our licensing guide. Alternatively, we can arrange a qualified skipper for you.
What are the typical boat rental prices in Nice?
Prices vary by season: Sailboats range from €250-€400/day in low season to €400-€600/day in summer. Catamarans cost €500-€700/day low season, €800-€1,200/day high season. Motor yachts start from €700/day off-peak to €1,500+/day peak season.
When is the best time to sail in Nice?
The prime sailing season is May to October, with temperatures around 20-28°C and reliable winds. The Mistral wind is strongest in spring and autumn. The French Riviera offers excellent routes to Monaco, Cannes and the Lérins Islands.
What additional costs should I expect for a Nice charter?
Budget for mandatory end-cleaning (€100-€500), security deposit (or insurance from €100-€350), and marina fees (typically €50-€150/night for monohulls, 50% more for catamarans). Local tourist tax is approximately €2.20 per person/night.
What booking flexibility do you offer?
Select boats offer extended free cancellation. We provide a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% initial deposit. Many boats feature exclusive discounts, especially in shoulder seasons.
What support services are available in Nice?
We offer airport transfers and comprehensive charter insurance. We can arrange provisioning, professional skippers, and any additional services you need for your charter.
Can you help find specific boats not listed on your website?
Yes! We can source any professionally chartered boat in Nice and worldwide, whether listed or not. We offer options for all experience levels - from first-time sailors to seasoned crews, available bareboat, skippered, or fully crewed.

Need additional help?

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