Guide to France

Defined by its diversity, France is one of the world’s most popular destinations for luxury yacht charters. Much of the yachting activity, however, takes place in the South of France in the piercing blue waters of the Mediterranean, rather than the cooler climes of the North Sea and Bay of Biscay in the west.

Also known as the Côte d'Azur, the French Riviera provides the perfect cruising territory for luxury yacht-goers looking for glamour and sophistication and, the yachting hub of the Mediterranean, this is the place to see and be seen during the summer superyacht season.

Stretching from Théoule-sur-Mer in the west to the border of Italy in the east, the arcing coastline takes in the famous towns of St Tropez, Cannes, Antibes and Nice, as well as medieval villages and untamed wilderness. Beyond this are sprawling vineyards, olive groves and colourful lavender fields, inviting exploration into the hinterland.

Step ashore and embrace the French art de vivre or art of living. Breakfast on warm croissants from a boulangerie, sip coffee at a street-side café, visit the local food market, dine on French fare in a traditional bistro and chink champagne flutes in an ancient cellar.

The French cuisine is certainly not be missed. UNESCO has even declared France’s ‘gastronomic meal’ to be a world intangible heritage, and there is a wealth of acclaimed restaurants along the Riviera. Another highlight is the region's amazing variety of architecture, ranging from Belle Époque to Modernist innovations.

Adding even more to France’s endless appeal is the island of Corsica, located south of the Côte d'Azur. Cruising the coastline takes charterers from glittering bays, glitzy resorts and picturesque beaches to shores backed by dense forests, enigmatic hilltop villages and rocky headlands.

For more details on a yachting vacation which takes place around the spectacular French waters, take a look at all of the luxury crewed yachts for charter in France to discover which ones best meet your needs for a private rental cruise.