Where to go...in France?

The main features of yachting in France

France is one of those countries where yachting is held in high esteem. The French love not only sailing, but also making boats - the shipyards Dufour, Fountaine-Pajot, Jeanneau, Bénéteau and many others are located in France. Unlike some European countries, local marinas are, for the most part, fairly modern and well-equipped. 

There are also disadvantages - the yacht industry and holidays in France will be somewhat more expensive than in other European countries. However, this will not be a problem if you cook yourself on board, then the cost of food will not differ much. As for the charter, here the prices are quite reasonable and quite comparable with the average prices in the Mediterranean.

The climate in France also favors good sailing. The Mediterranean part of the country is very similar to Italy or Croatia. Winters are mild here, and summers are warm and sometimes even in the middle of autumn the weather is suitable for relaxing on board.

On the Atlantic coast, the weather depends on the ocean. Often there are quite warm summers, but more severe winters. High humidity, strong winds are regular guests in this part of France. 

French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)

The Riviera is probably one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean part of France. The Riviera does not have any clearly defined borders, but you can often hear that the Cote d'Azur starts from the city of Menton and ends at the port of Cassis. However, this does not prevent us from associating with the Riviera and Marseille, which is located not far from Cassis.

By the way, Marseille is the second largest city in France. There is an international airport and a large seaport, which can accommodate about three thousand ships! Often this port is recommended as one of the starting points for a yacht trip. In this huge city, you can find both historical monuments and modern architecture, which coexists in a bizarre way with the spirit of the Old City. 

Cassis is located near Marseille. This is a port city, which is located on the shores of a stunning rocky bay. Interestingly, the stone that is mined here had a serious impact on the architecture of Cassis itself, and Marseille, and Algeria, and even Alexandria in Egypt. Moreover, it was the stone from Cassis that served as the basis for the legendary Statue of Liberty in New York.

The port city of Menton is famous for its colorful houses that rise above the hillside. You can often hear from travelers that Menton is very similar to Porto in Spain. In Menton you can find the famous local citrus fruits, which are known far beyond the borders of France. There is even a local festival in honor of them. 

Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer is a small village that has become quite a popular starting point among yachtsmen. One of the main advantages of Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer is its convenient location. The village is located between Marseille and Saint-Tropez. From here you can also get to the ports of Nice and Antibes. 

Attractions of the Cote d'Azur

Saint-Tropez was once a nondescript fishing village. Everything changed in the 1950s, when Saint-Tropez gained popularity thanks to movie stars. Today, the village has turned into a resort, and for many, "Saint-Tropez" is synonymous with relaxation in France. If you love French cinema, then check out the local Louis de Funes Museum.

Another hallmark of the Riviera is Port Grimaud. This city is often called the Venice of France and for good reason. Port Grimaud was built literally on the water. The territory of the city covers several peninsulas and islands - just like in Italian Venice. If you are a canal lover, then Port Grimaud is a must visit.

Cannes… They hardly need an introduction. This is probably one of the most famous cities in France in principle. The historic center of the city has suffered a bit from new developments, but this will not greatly prevent you from plunging into the atmosphere of those same Cannes. However, do not forget about the film festival!

Do you want to get into the city of contrasts? Then your course lies on Antibes. On the streets of the city you can meet the richest people in Europe and the world, which does not affect the famous Provencal hospitality of the locals. You will also find many shops with products and delicacies of their own production.

A couple of places for lovers of peace and quiet

Tired of noisy cities and villages with tourists? It's time to escape for a while to the wilderness of the Golden Isles (Isles of Hyeres). Alone with nature, you can think about the essential and unrealizable, soak up the sun on the beach and drink wine on the island of Porquerolles, ride a bike and swim on Palud beach.

Another great place for sailing and relaxing alone is the Gulf of Lion. It is located to the west of Marseille and closes the French Mediterranean coast. The Gulf of Lion covers the area between Marseille and Cape Creus in northeastern Spain. 

This place is quite different from the rest of the Riviera. The yachting infrastructure here is noticeably less developed. However, due to this, there are fewer tourists and yachtsmen, which makes this place ideal for relaxing in seclusion. It will also be a plus that in almost every city on the coast there is a medieval castle or fortress that has survived to this day, a religious temple or entertaining stone bridges.

Corsica

Corsica is a separate marvelous world. First, you can travel to Corsica from the continent. So you get an amazing experience of a 100-mile journey. Secondly, this is a unique place with its own strange, wild and a bit harsh charm. Definitely a place worth giving a try. And even if you don’t like it, then at least you will have one more tick about visiting a famous place.

Please be aware that the ports of Ajaccio, Propriano, Bonifacio, Calvi and Bastia may experience booking problems during the peak season. If you want to get to Corsica, we recommend booking rooms and boats in advance. 

Brittany and the Bay of Biscay

Brittany is your ticket to the world of ocean sailing. It is here that many begin to conquer the ocean. For beginners, we can advise southern Brittany, as the conditions here are simpler and more pleasant. However, you can conquer the northern part of Brittany on the move - the main thing is that you have an experienced skipper as your mentors. 

Both in the north and in the south of the region, you should be prepared for strong winds, big waves and cold. It will not be easy, but the experience and emotions from a cruise to these places are worth it. Swimming in the region will definitely be one of the most exciting of all your trips. Brittany is also full of historical sights, so there is no question of what to do on the coast. Don't forget the local beer and cider!

Biscay is one of the most unpredictable bays. The waters here are never to be underestimated, and the bay can only be crossed after careful preparation. You can start your acquaintance with Biscay in La Rochelle. The port and surrounding waters are well protected from the harsh winds and waves of the Atlantic thanks to the neighboring islands of Re and Oleron.

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29.03.2023