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Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in France

Whether it's the French Riviera or Brittany's rugged coasts, France's sailing routes are filled with elegance and charm. With an experienced captain, uncover hidden beaches and indulge in world-renowned cuisine.
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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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Motorboat cruising at speed
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  • “The company offers personalised guidance for finding the best deals. Their assistance was crucial for my first self-skippered sailing holiday.”
    Yeshekel S.

    Yeshekel S.

    Israel

  • “Being fairly new to boat rental, it was a good experience to go thru this process with the help of Rebecca. She gave me full support on finding the right boat within our budget. well done!”
    CR

    Carlos R.

    Portugal

  • “Super nice & dedicated & friendly staff. Special requests were addressed immediately. Above all, the prompt response impressed me!”
    AK

    Ann-Marie K.

    Switzerland

  • “Borrow A Boat's support made our Saronic Islands cruise exceptional, turning it into an annual tradition.”
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    James D.

    United Kingdom

  • “Giulia quickly found a good yacht at a fair price. The boat owner was responsive. I'll consider using Borrow A Boat again.”
    Henry

    Henry

    France

  • “I chartered a boat for the first time and I am thrilled with the service. I received personal advice from a very friendly and competent lady and was able to contact the same employee with my questions repeatedly, either in writing or by phone.”
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    Christian M.

    Germany

  • “I have to say that we had an excellent customer experience when dealing with Borrow A Boat. Out agent 'Luke' responded in a timely manor and offered us a very good deal. I can wholeheartedly recommend Borrow A Boat for anyone looking for a hassle free experience when seeking a yacht charter.”
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    Eamonn. B.

    Ireland

  • “Booking our gulet trip with Eray was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He was incredibly responsive, patient, and knowledgeable, answering all our questions and helping us find the perfect vessel for our needs.”
    MC

    Malgoska C.

    Switzerland

  • “We had a great experience chartering a Hanse 575 in Turkey through Borrow A Boat. Prompt service and smooth payment process.”
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    Adrian

    Germany

  • “I was very satisfied with how the negotiation was conducted and the quick and transparent conclusion: in particular, the company representative, Mr. Nicolò, was very kind, professional and helpful.”
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    Rossella di T.

    Italy

  • “Borrow A Boat provided excellent service from start to finish. I'll use them for future bookings.”
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    Ruth V.

    United Arab Emirates

  • “Tom provided excellent, responsive service on short notice. We'll use his company again and highly recommend him.”
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    United States

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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.

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
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Skippered / Captain Mandatory

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

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
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Fully Crewed

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

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
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Discover the Magic of France with a Boat Charter

From the glamorous French Riviera to the wild beauty of Corsica, France offers an unmatched sailing paradise with over 5,800km of coastline to explore. The combination of crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, historic coastal towns, and world-renowned cuisine creates an enchanting backdrop for your perfect sailing holiday, whether you're an experienced sailor or first-time charterer.

  • Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans

    Book your French sailing adventure with confidence thanks to our customer-friendly policies. Spread the cost with our 3-installment plan starting from just 15% down payment, and enjoy free cancellation up to 30 days before departure on selected boats. We regularly offer exclusive discounts on charters along the French coast, making your dream holiday more accessible.

  • The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor

    Whether you're dreaming of a sleek sailboat in Saint-Tropez or a spacious catamaran in Cannes, we'll find your ideal match. Our fleet ranges from cosy 32-foot sailboats starting at £200 per day to luxury motor yachts for special occasions, with or without crew. Every boat in our network meets strict safety and comfort standards.

  • Year-Round Sailing Paradise

    The French Mediterranean coast offers excellent sailing conditions from April to October, with the Mistral winds providing exciting sailing opportunities for experienced crews. Summer brings perfect conditions for island-hopping between Porquerolles and Port-Cros, while spring and autumn offer peaceful cruising along the Côte d'Azur with fewer crowds.

  • Seamless Local Support

    Our partnerships with local operators ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. We can arrange reliable airport transfers through our trusted transport partner, provide comprehensive charter insurance via Sealogy, and connect you with experienced local skippers who know these waters intimately.

  • Cultural Treasures at Every Port

    Chart a course through history and culture along France's stunning coastline. Moor in charming ports like Antibes' Port Vauban, Europe's largest yacht harbour, or discover hidden coves along Corsica's rugged shore. Sample world-class cuisine in seaside restaurants and explore medieval coastal villages that can only be truly appreciated from the water.

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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.

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Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in France, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.
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Piqued Your Interest?

Your next adventure is just a booking away. Discover secluded bays, anchor at the best snorkelling spots, or watch sunsets from your private deck. With our diverse fleet and local knowledge, every trip becomes an extraordinary memory.

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France Yacht Charter Guide

A diverse sailing paradise from Mediterranean glamour to Atlantic adventures, featuring world-class facilities and stunning coastlines

France scenic view
Perfect for:
Luxury
Culture
Gastronomy

Essential information

  • Information type
    High and Low Season
    Description
    Peak season runs July-August with premium rates and busy marinas. Shoulder season offers better value and comfortable conditions. Low season from November to March has limited services but lower rates.
    Best Months to Book:
    May, June, September
  • Information type
    Marinas, Ports and Mooring
    Description
    Modern marinas with excellent facilities along both Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Popular regions include French Riviera, Brittany, and Corsica with both municipal and private options.
    Best Places to Stay:
    Port Vauban Antibes, Port Hercule Monaco, 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:
    18°C to 28°C, Force 2-6 Beaufort
  • Information type
    Required Licenses and Certifications
    Description
    ICC (International Certificate of Competence) required for coastal waters. Additional radio license needed for offshore sailing.
    Best License to Hold:
    ICC, VHF Radio License, RYA Day Skipper or higher
  • Currency:
    EUR
  • Season:
    April - October

Sailing Conditions in France

France offers some of Europe's most diverse sailing experiences, with its 5,500km of coastline spanning three distinct seas: the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and English Channel. The sailing season typically runs from April to October, with peak conditions from June to September. From the glamorous French Riviera to the rugged Brittany coast, France presents varied sailing opportunities suitable for all experience levels.

Wind Conditions

  • •Mediterranean Coast (French Riviera): Typically experiences Force 2-4 winds, with the Mistral wind bringing stronger Force 6-8 conditions in the Gulf of Lion, particularly during winter and spring
  • •Atlantic Coast: Consistent Force 3-5 winds, with stronger conditions in winter. The Bay of Biscay can experience sudden weather changes and Force 6-7 conditions
  • •Brittany Coast: Generally Force 3-6 winds, with stronger conditions around headlands. The region experiences reliable sea breezes during summer months
  • •Channel Coast (Normandy): Average Force 3-5 winds, with occasional Force 6-7 in autumn and winter. Wind patterns are influenced by Atlantic weather systems
  • •Corsica: Experiences varied wind conditions, with Force 3-5 typical, and localised strong winds in the Strait of Bonifacio reaching Force 7-8

Sea State

  • •Mediterranean waters are generally calm with short fetch waves of 1-2m, though can become challenging during Mistral events
  • •Atlantic coast experiences longer ocean swells, typically 2-3m, with potential for larger waves in the Bay of Biscay
  • •Brittany coast features complex sea states due to interaction between tides and offshore winds, with wave heights varying from 1-3m
  • •Channel waters are generally moderate but can become choppy, especially during spring tides
  • •Corsican waters are typically calm on the western coast but can be rough in the Bonifacio Strait

Temperature

  • •Mediterranean Coast: Summer air temperatures 25-30°C, water temperature 20-24°C. Winter air temperatures 10-15°C
  • •Atlantic Coast: Summer air temperatures 20-25°C, water temperature 17-20°C. Winter air temperatures 8-12°C
  • •Brittany: Summer air temperatures 18-23°C, water temperature 15-18°C. Winter air temperatures 5-10°C
  • •Channel Coast: Summer air temperatures 18-22°C, water temperature 15-17°C. Winter air temperatures 4-8°C
  • •Corsica: Summer air temperatures 24-29°C, water temperature 20-25°C. Winter air temperatures 8-13°C

Tides and Currents

  • •Mediterranean coast experiences minimal tidal range (20-40cm) with generally weak currents
  • •Atlantic coast has significant tidal ranges of 3-4m, with strong currents particularly around river mouths
  • •Brittany coast features Europe's largest tidal ranges (up to 14m in St. Malo) with powerful tidal streams
  • •Channel coast experiences strong tidal currents, especially around headlands and in the Channel Islands area
  • •Notable current zones include the Raz de Sein, Chenal du Four, and Strait of Bonifacio

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

  • •Beginners: Côte d'Azur between Antibes and Saint-Tropez (protected waters, predictable winds), Gulf of Morbihan (sheltered waters), and La Rochelle area (consistent conditions)
  • •Intermediate: Corsica's west coast, Brittany's southern coast, and the Normandy coastline between Cherbourg and Le Havre
  • •Advanced: Gulf of Lion (challenging Mistral winds), Bay of Biscay crossings, Brittany's north coast (strong tides), and the Strait of Bonifacio

Best Time to Rent a Boat in France

France offers diverse sailing experiences across three distinct coastlines: the Mediterranean's azure waters, the Atlantic's dramatic swells, and the English Channel's historic maritime routes. From the glamorous French Riviera to the rugged Brittany coast, sailors can explore charming fishing villages, world-class ports, and stunning natural harbours, with each region offering unique weather patterns and sailing conditions.

High Season (July and August)
Pros & advantages
•Reliable Mediterranean weather with temperatures 25-30°C and steady afternoon Mistral winds perfect for sailing
•All marinas and facilities fully operational with vibrant atmosphere in ports from Saint-Tropez to Antibes
•Excellent visibility and calm seas in the morning, ideal for exploring calanques between Marseille and Cassis
Cons & disadvantages
•Marina berths require booking weeks ahead, particularly in popular ports like Port Grimaud and Cannes
•Peak season prices increase by 40-50%, consider shoulder season or exploring lesser-known ports
•Crowded anchorages in popular spots like Porquerolles Islands require early arrival for secure mooring
Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)
Pros & advantages
•Pleasant temperatures 20-25°C with consistent winds and fewer crowds in prime sailing areas
•Better availability and reduced rates for berths along the entire French coast
•Perfect conditions for long-distance sailing between regions with stable weather patterns
Cons & disadvantages
•Variable weather patterns in Atlantic regions require careful planning and weather monitoring
•Some beach clubs and seasonal facilities may have limited hours or be closed
•Stronger Mistral winds in spring can create challenging conditions for novice sailors
Low Season (November to April)
Pros & advantages
•Significant cost savings on berths and charters with negotiable long-term winter rates
•Peaceful sailing experience with empty anchorages in normally busy areas like Gulf of Saint-Tropez
•Excellent opportunities for experienced sailors to build heavy weather handling skills
Cons & disadvantages
•Challenging conditions with winter storms and waves up to 3-4 metres in Atlantic regions
•Limited facilities with many coastal restaurants and services closed for the season
•Shorter daylight hours and temperatures around 10-15°C require additional planning and equipment

The optimal time for sailing in France largely depends on your experience level and priorities. For beginners and families, the shoulder seasons offer an ideal balance of good weather and reasonable costs, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. Experienced sailors seeking solitude and adventure might prefer the low season, while those prioritising vibrant port life and guaranteed sunshine should opt for high season despite the crowds. The French Riviera generally offers the most reliable conditions year-round, while Atlantic and Channel coasts are best explored during shoulder seasons.

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Which Boat to Charter in France?

When embarking on 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 concise overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in France:

Monohull Sailboat

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 to rent in France
Houseboat

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
View 249 available houseboats to rent in France
Catamaran

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
View 174 available catamarans to rent in France
RIB

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 129 available RIBs to rent in France
Motorboat

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 103 available motorboats to rent in France
Speedboat

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 69 available speedboats to rent in France
Power Catamaran

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 to rent in France
Gulet

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
View 2 available gulets to rent in France

When planning your France yacht charter, choose from our premium fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts, and luxury catamarans. Whether you prefer a crewed or bareboat charter experience, our professionally maintained vessels offer ideal options for every group size and sailing expertise. Discover competitive charter rates and top-quality amenities for your perfect sailing holiday in France.

France Yacht Charter FAQ

  • What boating licence do I need to charter in France?
    A valid ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent national licence is required for bareboat charters in France. Check our detailed licensing guide or opt for a skippered charter if you don't hold a licence.
  • How much does it cost to charter a boat in France?
    Prices vary by season and boat type. Sailboats range from €1,500-€3,000/week in low season to €2,500-€5,000 in high season. Catamarans cost €3,000-€6,000/week low season, €5,000-€10,000 high season. Motor yachts start from €2,500/week low season to €15,000+ in peak months.
  • When is the best time to sail in France?
    The prime sailing season is May to October, with July-August being peak season. Expect temperatures of 22-28°C and reliable winds of 8-15 knots. The Mediterranean coast offers excellent conditions, with the mistral winds strongest in spring and autumn.
  • What additional costs should I budget for in France?
    Key extras include mandatory end-cleaning (€100-€500), security deposit (or insurance from €100-€350), marina fees (€30-€150/night, 50% higher for catamarans), and local tourist tax. Charter insurance options available here.
  • What are your booking and payment terms?
    We offer flexible booking with extended free cancellation on select boats, a unique 3-installment payment plan with just 15% deposit, and exclusive discounts on many charters. Full payment is typically due 6 weeks before departure.
  • Can you arrange transfers and provisioning services?
    Yes! We provide worldwide airport transfers and can arrange local provisioning. We also partner with professional skipper services and sailing schools if needed.
  • Which French sailing destinations do you cover?
    We offer charters throughout France's coastline, including popular spots like the French Riviera, Corsica, and Brittany. Whether you're interested in exploring historic ports, secluded beaches, or vibrant coastal towns, we can arrange the perfect itinerary.

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