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Nice Yacht Charters

Nice is a popular yacht charter destination in the French Riviera. Despite the fact that today, Nice is the second most popular destination in France – next to Paris, of course – it wasn’t until the late 18th-century that its beauty started attracting A-list appeal.

Boasting an ideal Mediterranean climate all year round, Nice first gained traction as a winter destination for English aristocrats; and once its beauty was confirmed, later became a muse for Western artists most talented painters: like Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, Arman, and Niki de Saint Phalle, to name a few.

The meeting point of old-world opulence, sunny shores, art enthusiasts, delicious fare, and seaside views, Nice is a haven for the romantics. To experience the true heart of the French Riviera, watch the sunset as you walk along the Promenade des Anglais, see the art hanging on the walls of Fondation Maeght or grab a drink at one of the coastal city’s celebrity-filled nightclubs. When the sun is shining – which, in Nice, it always is – wander through Cours Saleya, one of the globe’s most popular flower and food markets, for fresh produce brought in by the local harvest.

It’s worth a visit; after all, Nice is considered the “foodie capital” of the world. Nice is the perfect place to visit on your France yacht charter to expand your palate with quaint bistros and boulangeries to elegant brasseries and fromageries.

Nice Yacht Charter Highlights

• Classic Mediterranean boardwalk; Promenade des Anglais
• Quaint Vieille Ville (Old Town) & Nice Cathedral
• Cours Saleya Market
• Amazing French cuisine, bakeries, and wine bars
• Hidden beaches of Cap Ferrat

Showing 1–4 of 131 results

282.2ft / 84m

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239.6ft / 71m

Serenity 236

236.3ft / 70m

When to charter a yacht in Nice

Like most of the Mediterranean, summer is charter season in Nice. The season begins in May, and runs through early October. Summer yacht charters in Nice offer plenty for guests to explore and experience. The Nice Jazz Festival in July is a summer season staple, with nightly concerts to Nice’s historic Plaza Massena.

With summer temperatures in the 70s and 80s, many choose to soak up the sun at the Nice’s sandy beaches. Castel Plage, situated on a stunning private beach, is one of Nice’s most exclusive beach clubs, and a favorite stop for Nice yacht charters. Other must-sees during the summer include: Football matches at OGC Nice, the coastal trail on Cap-Ferrat, and Nice’s bustling flower and produce market.

Nice France Yacht Charters – Things to Do & See

Promenade des Anglais

Named “La Prom” for short, the Promenade des Anglais, or ‘English Walk,’ runs along the pebbly shore of the Nicean coastline; making it the focal point of the city, and a metaphorical compass for the rest of Nice’s frequented attractions. Lined with palms and boasting enchanting sunset views, “La Prom” is the perfect spot for a relaxing bicycle ride, a slow skate or a romantic evening stroll. Along its path are a couple of other sites worth seeing: the majestic 1912-built Hôtel Negresco and the art deco Palais de la Méditerranée, which exists as a part of an impressive, four-star palace.

Colline du Château

French for “Castle Hill,” Colline du Château is a historic hill that holds the remains of Nice’s first Ancient Greek settlement; which, considering its existence thousands of years ago, was considered to be the area’s first true Medieval town. While most of the castle has since crumbled, today, the site houses a large park and botanical garden, waterfalls, the remains of a former 11th-century Cathedral, walkways made of vibrant, 20th-century mosaics, and sweeping panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges below.

Cours Saleya

Situated in the heart of Vieille Ville, or “Old Town” – in a city that is already considered to be one of the world’s most desired culinary destinations – Cours Saleya is a famous fruit, flower and vegetable market, highly regarded for its colorful produce, seductive aromas, and on select days, precious antiques. Open Tuesday through Sunday, Cours Saleya welcomes travelers and locals alike to peruse its bountiful stalls; and when they’re done, traipse through its surrounding shops and enjoy dinner at one of the nearby, likely award-winning restaurants.

Charter a private yacht in Nice

If you want to explore the French Riviera, Nice is a prime launching point. With Cannes, Monaco and St Tropez nearby, a private yacht charter in Nice offers a full range of possibilities for itineraries. Not to mention, Nice is renowned for its exclusive marinas, from the Port de Nice right in the heart of Old Town, to Port de Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.

When you charter a private yacht in Nice, you’ll be in the heart of the French Riviera. Taste the city’s many famous dishes, (like the classic Salade Nicoise, or street-food favorite Socca). Explore the stunning Cap Ferrat, with its beautiful anchorages, or cruise to nearby ports in St Tropez.

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THE 10 BEST Nice Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in nice.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Speed Boats Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Gondola Cruises
• Swim with Dolphins
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Villa Kérylos
• Fort Mont-Alban
• Èze-sur-Mer Beach
• Villa & Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Half Day Guided Boat tour to Mala caves with stop in Villefranche

2. Exclusive Private Boat Tour on a Luxury Day Cruiser-Nice/Monaco

3. Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice

4. Premium Tour on a Solar Powered Boat - Private Group

5. Sunset Bliss: Boat Excursion with Aperitif on French Riviera

6. Boat tour cruise swimming snorkeling Nice Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

7. Private Tour of Nice by Bike and Boat

8. Sea trip from Villefranche sur mer to Monaco and Nice

9. Lerins Islands Boat Excursion From Nice

10. Private Luxury Boat Tour of the Beautiful Riviera Nice / Monaco

11. Nautical excursion - Nice-Monaco 2H30

12. Private Cruise Near Nice and Monaco with Solar Powered Boat

13. Calanques of Cassis, Aix-en-Provence & Wine Tasting Private Tour

14. Private Boat Tour Nice, Villefranche, St Jean Cap Ferrat

15. Romantic Private Tour for 2 plus guide on your own Solar Powered Boat

16. Private Yacht Charter with Skipper on The French Riviera

17. Evening Private Tour for 2 in Solar Boat near Nice and Monaco

18. French Riviera Boat Charter, on modern SAXDOR 320, Monaco or Nice

19. French Riviera Boat Cruise, Superhawk 43, from Nice or Monaco

20. Boat Excursion - Nice/St Jean Cap Ferrat 1H30

21. Sunset Private Boat Tour In Nice

What travellers are saying.

Explore the Riviera

10 best boat trips and tours from nice [2024].

A trip to the beautiful city of Nice is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

From the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and its picturesque landscape to the rich cultural heritage, wonderful weather, and stunning architecture, there’s something really special about this place.

But if you really want to make your trip unforgettable and explore the area from a different perspective, sailing is one of the best ways to view Nice’s stunning coastline and nearby islands and even have the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the summer.

Furthermore, it provides the opportunity to relax away from crowded beaches with some peace and tranquility while enjoying the unmatched beauty of nature along Nice’s coast.

Looking for the best boat tours in Nice? We’ve got you covered.

In this guide, you will find 10 of the best boat tours from Nice that you should consider during your visit .

🏆 BEST BOAT TOUR FROM NICE

Don’t have time to read about all the tours on the list?  No worries  — the best boat tour from Nice is this Private French Riviera Solar Boat Cruise . It has about more than 100 stellar reviews, so you can’t go wrong.

10 Best Boat Trips from Nice

When you are done reading, you might also enjoy reading about the Best Food Tours in Nice, and the best Wine Tours from Nice .

1- Private Boat Tour on the Côte d’Azur

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Explore the French Riviera and sail to Cannes or Monaco on this exclusive private tour for up to four people.

Admire the beautiful Mediterranean sea and stop to swim or snorkel if you wish.

There is no better way to experience the lifestyle and sea view than with a boat tour! I really enjoyed it. Skipper Adrian was a really great captain. He was truly accommodating, keen on everyone’s safety and on us having fun One of the best experiences I had in Nice, one I plan on repeating! – Bethany

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera.

2- Evening Private Tour on Electric Catamaran near Nice and Monaco

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Also private, this luxurious tour that will have you sailing from Beaulieu-sur-Mer and admiring views of the stunning Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the ultimate French Riviera experience.

This experience was the absolute highlight of our trip to the South of France! The boat itself was spotless and so much fun to experience considering it was electric (so quiet and peaceful). The views were the best from any beach we went to with natural landscapes and cool facts about homes and yachts. We wished we could have done this ride more than once during our stay. 10/10 recommend and hope to return one day! – Elizabeth

11 Best French Riviera Boat Tours for 2023

3- Nice to St Tropez Ferry Ticket and Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.96 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Why not sail to Saint Tropez for a day during your trip?

With this tour, you will leave Nice early in the morning and spend the day exploring one of the most charming towns in the world. Return to Nice at night just in time for dinner!

If you like the sea and boats, this excursion is for you. We had a comfortable 2.5 hour ride to St. Tropez from Nice enjoying the ultramarine water and the beautiful coastline. I really liked the upper deck under the roof. It had the best views, it’s more stable, and you get fresh air without the burning sun. The cruise boat crew was friendly and caring. I The 2.5 hours to St. Tropez went by quickly. St. Tropez, where we had about 4.5 hours on our own, is a charming town with winding streets, fancy and affordable boutiques intermixed, and plenty of options of people watching. – Janna

4- Saint-Laurent-du-Var: 4-Hour Fishing Trip

⭐️  RATING:  4.96 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Love fishing? Then this is definitely the tour for you.

Learn sophisticated and classic fishing techniques while you sail and fish in the gorgeous waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

We spent al great day fishing with Romain. He went out of his way to have us catch some real fish. I will never forget his special technique of hunting Atlantic Bonito. Marvelous active fishing. Caught a big one myself! – Get Your Guide Review

9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2023]

5- Private Cruise Near Nice and Monaco with Solar Powered Boat

⭐️  RATING:  4.99 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

See some of the French Riviera’s most beautiful views on this private cruise. From the boat, you will get to see Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, and Villa Kerylos from a privileged perspective.

There is always a piece of magic that turns a vacation into a special experience. Our family spent 2 hours on Guillaume’s solar powered boat floating around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and swimming in the mediterranean sea. – Get Your Guide Review

6- Coastline Boat Cruise from Nice to Monaco

⭐️  RATING:  4.7 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Looking for a boat tour from Nice to Monaco? This is the one.

Sail among the coast of both France and Monaco and take refreshing swimming breaks in this 2,5 hour tour.

Great views as you track along the coastline in the way out with an opportunity to stop for a swim in the sea. I think we were near Beaulisol at that point, before a float around Monaco harbour taking in the super yachts and views before a relatively high speed trip back to Nice port. So much fun! – Get your Guide Review

7- Small Group Cruise to Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Set sail on a rigid inflatable boat in the direction of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, one of the most beautiful places in the South of France, in the company of a small group.

You will also have the opportunity to jump in the water and do some snorkeling while you are at it.

Fantastic trip!! Our captain was skilled at maneuvering boats. and at the same time told about the different bays we sailed into. The trip ended with the most beautiful dip in the clear water, in one of the most beautiful bays. – Get Your Guide Review

8- French Riviera Villefranche Bay Snorkeling Tour from Nice

⭐️  RATING:  4.96 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

See the French Riviera’s marine life from up close in this snorkeling tour from Nice to Villefranche.

It was gorgeous!! A lot of fish, very clear water, and you could even find some octopus and starfish if you were lucky. Definitely going again! – Cheryl

9- 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay

⭐️  RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Villafrance is undoubtedly one of the most stunning spots along the coast of the French Riviera.

During this tour, admire the impressive villas and the beautiful harbor while sunbathing and enjoying the Riviera’s perfect weather.

The boat ride to Villefranche Bay was delightful. Beautiful, amazing views, some history and enjoyable narration. Wonderful to be on the water. A must to get a view from the water and to add a dimension to time in Nice.  – Get Your Guide Review

10- Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Last but not least, this coastal sightseeing cruise is another of our favorites.

Admire the medieval villages, cliffs, and turquoise colors of the sea as you sail for one hour in this unforgettable experience.

This was such a beautiful and relaxing tour. It was the first thing we did in Nice and we were glad we booked it. Great way to see the sights. – Denise

Other tours & fun things to do in Nice

After you are done with your tour, it is time to explore the other wonderful activities Nice has to offer.

These are some of our favorites:

• Climb to the stairs of Castle Hill for one of the best views of Nice
• Explore Nice’s culinary scene on a food tour
• Walk along Promenade des Anglais
• Go on a day trip to Monaco, Antibes, and Éze
• See art at Musée Chagall and Musée Matisse
• Learn about Nice’s history and Old Town on a walking tour

What to pack for sailing in Nice

When going on boat tours from Nice, it is important to pack the right items to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The weather in Nice is 90% of the time sunny, so there are certain items that should be taken with you regardless of the season.

For those sailing in Nice, some items you should take include a sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water shoes, swimsuits, and towels.

Additionally, it can be helpful to bring a few snacks and drinks to keep hydrated.

→ Read: Île Sainte-Marguerite, the best day trip from Cannes

Where to stay in Nice

Nice has many wonderful hotels, resorts, and apartments for visitors to stay in during their boat tours from Nice.

Here are some of our top picks:

• La Pérouse – a Mediterranean heaven
• Le Petit Palais – a gorgeous villa with a pool
• Hotel Villa Les Cygnes – a romantic french villa
• Palais Saleya – for stunning luxurious rooms
• Hôtel Suisse – wonderful views of the sea

You might also enjoy reading about The Best Hotels in Nice and the Best Boutique Hotels in Nice .

Conclusion: The Best Boat Tours from Nice, France

That’s a wrap! Now you are officially ready to embark on a sailing adventure in Nice.

10 Best Wine Tours from Nice [2023]

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]
• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 10 Best Wine Tours from Nice [2024]
• 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

Recent Posts

THE 10 BEST Nice Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in nice.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Speed Boats Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Gondola Cruises
• Swim with Dolphins
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Villa Kérylos
• Fort Mont-Alban
• Èze-sur-Mer Beach
• Villa & Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Half Day Guided Boat tour to Mala caves with stop in Villefranche

2. Exclusive Private Boat Tour on a Luxury Day Cruiser-Nice/Monaco

3. Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice

4. Premium Tour on a Solar Powered Boat - Private Group

5. Sunset Bliss: Boat Excursion with Aperitif on French Riviera

6. Boat tour cruise swimming snorkeling Nice Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

7. Private Tour of Nice by Bike and Boat

8. Sea trip from Villefranche sur mer to Monaco and Nice

9. Lerins Islands Boat Excursion From Nice

10. Private Luxury Boat Tour of the Beautiful Riviera Nice / Monaco

11. Nautical excursion - Nice-Monaco 2H30

12. Private Cruise Near Nice and Monaco with Solar Powered Boat

13. Calanques of Cassis, Aix-en-Provence & Wine Tasting Private Tour

14. Private Boat Tour Nice, Villefranche, St Jean Cap Ferrat

15. Romantic Private Tour for 2 plus guide on your own Solar Powered Boat

16. Private Yacht Charter with Skipper on The French Riviera

17. Evening Private Tour for 2 in Solar Boat near Nice and Monaco

18. French Riviera Boat Charter, on modern SAXDOR 320, Monaco or Nice

19. French Riviera Boat Cruise, Superhawk 43, from Nice or Monaco

20. Boat Excursion - Nice/St Jean Cap Ferrat 1H30

21. Sunset Private Boat Tour In Nice

What travellers are saying.

Boat trips out to sea

Fancy taking a boat trip from the port of nice.

Set off from the Port of Nice, on boat trips to not-to-be-missed destinations along the French Riviera! Cannes, Saint Tropez, Monaco, the Lérins Islands, the Corniche d’Or, and more. Enjoy these captivating landscapes in complete peace and quiet. Book your crossing on the ferry operators’ websites and make your way to the jetty near Lympia car park, where you can take advantage of our  special parking rate .

Accès au port

Sainte-Marguerite Island

Sainte-Marguerite Island is the largest of the Lérins Islands. As soon as you set foot on the island, you will be taken in by its imposing 152-hectare forest – the most visited in France – and its delicate fragrance of pine and eucalyptus. You can follow the signposted paths leading to the Étangs des Batéguier, or explore all the nooks and crannies of the Fort Royal. For those who prefer to relax, Sainte-Marguerite Island boasts 18 beaches.

Book a trip

The Corniche d’Or

Departing from the Port of Nice, take a boat along the Corniche d’Or, a renowned 40 km-long section of road between Fréjus and La Napoule. Discover an exceptional landscape, characterised by the contrast between the flamboyant colours of the tree-covered Estérel Massif, and the blue of the Mediterranean. Amongst this wild landscape, you can admire numerous coves and inlets, with their characteristic red sand.

Discover the city that epitomises film-making and its world-famous Croisette lined with luxury hotels. Indulge in a spot of window-shopping, taking in the famous luxury boutiques, try your luck in one of the casinos, or relax and unwind on one of Cannes’ sunny beaches.

When you arrive in the  Port of Cannes , start with a stroll through the Suquet neighbourhood and its narrow streets dating back to medieval times, visit the Musée de la Castre and admire the view from the castle overlooking the hill.

Saint-Tropez

A world-renowned seaside resort, Saint-Tropez is a popular destination on the French Riviera. After just over an hour-long crossing from the Old Port, you will call at St-Tropez, a town rich in cultural and architectural treasures steeped in Provençal heritage, and with a buzzing night life. Wander around the Place des Lices, enjoy a coffee outside a café whilst taking in the magnificent yachts towering in the port, or settle down on one of the town’s famous beaches.

Clinging to the rock overlooking the sea, Monaco combines ancient and ultra-modern architecture. You will have the chance to discover the Prince’s palace, its cathedral, and its oceanographic museum. You can also admire the Monte Carlo Casino and Opera, designed by the renowned architect Charles Garnier. Its exotic garden, boasting over 900 plant species, is an ideal spot for a stroll and some relaxation.

Evening trips and events

Depending on the programme of major events, Trans Côte d’Azur organises several crossings from the Port of Nice. If you head for Cannes, you can enjoy a breathtaking view from the bay of the fireworks set off at the Festival of Pyrotechnic Art, take great photos during the Royal Regatta, set sail for Monaco, or admire the extraordinary panoramic views which the whole length of the Bay offers…

A reduced parking rate for passengers!

Heading off on a boat trip from the Port of Nice? You can leave your vehicle at  Lympia car park  or  Phare car park  at the reduced rate of €10/24hrs simply by providing proof of travel. To take advantage of the special offer, you need to pay for your ticket in advance at the car park manager’s office at Port Lympia Car Park, on Level -1.

Find out more

Rent a boat for the day with friends!

Fancy a boat trip out to sea with your family? Contact Rent My Boat on Quai Lunel and take advantage of its boat rental offers. Boats available at an hourly rate, for half-days, full days, and more. The nautical centre can provide you with motor boats with or without a licence, and is open from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesday to Sunday, from April to June, then 7 days a week from 9 am to 7 pm from July to September. Port Lympia car park is located right next to the nautical centre, guaranteeing stress-free parking before you set sail.

Rent a boat

+33 (0)4 92 00 42 14

[email protected]

April < June

7 am - 8 pm (Mon-Sun)

July < August

7 am - 9 pm (Mon-Sun)

September < October

November < April

7 am - 6 pm (Mon-Sun)

© SeeNice.com

Boat trip ideas in Nice

Discover how to arrange the perfect Nice boat trip

With beaches and coves, impressive cliff edges and turquoise waters, there is no better way to explore the coastline of Nice than from a boat.

The main ways of doing this are, depending on your budget, to  charter a yacht  or  hire a boat ; or  take a boat trip  with one of the many companies located all around the marinas. The latter is a popular option for being the most cost effective and easy to organise and, of course, you don't need a skipper licence; as they usually offer scheduled departures so you just have to turn up and enjoy your day.

Book My Boat Trip

Note that most of the boat trips around Nice are seasonal, starting from April and finishing in October.

Boat trip options

The majority of boat trips are day journeys and often anchor for a while so people can soak up the stunning scenery Nice has to offer. There is also usually the opportunity to indulge in some swimming, snorkelling or kayaking on these excursions. Sunset cruises can be booked in the evenings, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the views with a glass of bubbly and sometimes even dinner. For thrill seekers, perhaps a speedboat ride will get the adrenaline flowing.

Nice has a wide range of vessels available, including catamarans, motor boats and sailing yachts of different shapes, sizes and prices. Snorkelling, diving, fishing and specialist watersports boat trips are available, some even have glass bottoms so guests can discover the fish and sea vegetation below. 

It’s worth noting that some companies will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the departure points. Food and drink are sometimes included in the price of the trip; otherwise, boats tend to have bars on board where you are able to purchase drinks.

Boat trips to Saint Tropez The French Riviera technically begins at  Saint Tropez , and this pastel-coloured fishing village is a perfect spot to spend some time in the summer months. Superyachts cram the port and famous DJ’s play until dawn, so if you like the glitz and glamour then it is an absolute highlight. It’s best to arrive by boat as you can just anchor off and go ashore to enjoy the excitement and a good meal and then float away again to enjoy the breathtaking surrounds of red rock against turquoise waters. The famed  beach clubs  along  Pampelonne Beach  are oozing in celebrity chic, although there are a few cheaper and family-friendly options as well. If you can get there in the quieter months you’ll see Saint Tropez as the small and lovely town it really is.

While in this magical part of the world, visit the Les Isles d’Or (the Islands of Gold), the most famous of which is  Porquerolles . This island is a favourite stop for superyachts as well as boats of every description- with beautiful harbours, national parks beaches and cliffs - perfect for exploring. Hire a bike to make the most of it, or just snorkel, swim and hike the day away.

Boat trips to Frejus and Saint Raphael   The town of  Frejus  is a lovely spot for spending a day at the wide sandy beach and exploring the Roman ruins. You can also berth up in nearby  Saint Raphael , a bustling beachside town with a large marina.

Boat trips to Cannes Walk along the palm-lined  Croisette  past the famed Palais de Festivals and the grand hotels of the Belle Epoque, their white facades looking out across the superyachts clustered in the port.  Cannes  is a town of sophisticated piano bars, trendy super-clubs and casinos, although you can find a bit more local heart in the narrow cobbled lane of the old town, Le Suquet and enjoy  shopping  in the local markets before you hit the designer boutiques. 

Boat trips to the Iles de Lérins Everyone just calls these the Cannes Islands, lying just a short way off the glamorous city of Cannes. Perfect for a dayboat trip, or anchor here overnight to avoid the high berth fees in Cannes.

The larger island is called  Ile Sainte Margherite , a forested island rimmed by little beach coves and perfect clear waters. It is famous for being the place where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned and you can visit his cell, or you can just roam around the island on dirt tracks, birdwatching at the small lake or looking for the hidden sculptures in the fragrant pine and eucalyptus forest. There are only a few houses on the island and no cars, so while it gets busy with tourists and yachts in the summer months it is a lovely place to get back to nature. Spend a day on the beach snorkelling and having picnics, or just float in the water waiting for the snack food boats that come and deliver pizza and sandwiches and wine. A glorious day out.

The other island is  Ile de Saint Honorat , a small island that has been home to a colony of monks for over 1500 years, and where a Cistercian Abbey still produces its own wine. This is an island rich in history, a place that has been pillaged and passed between nations for centuries while remaining a place of pilgrimage and worship almost continuously. There is still a working monastery with 30 monks; the modern abbey is closed to the public but you can visit the  Abbey of Lérins  and the 15th-century fortified monastery. Please dress modestly when visiting the island and note that smoking is forbidden.

Boat trips to Antibes Antibes  has been a port since the time of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, and the Crusaders stopped here on their way to the Holy Land in medieval times. It’s only been in the last 50 years that it has become a mecca for sailing yachts and vast superyachts, which line up on the International Quay like white palaces worth many tens of millions of pounds. You can rent a dayboat here very easily and spend a day pootling around the stunning  Cap d’Antibes , where tremendous villas owned by oligarchs and old aristocratic families loom high over the sea. There are gorgeous coves and beaches and a lovely high coastal path on the cliffs that will take you to the grotto at Millionaire’s Bay. Or you can take to dry land wander through the narrow cobbled lanes of old Antibes, taking in Provencal markets that smell of lavender and visiting the Picasso museum that sits high in a tower on the ancient ramparts.

Boat trips between Nice and Monaco

Cap Saint Jean Ferrat  is a famous headland covered in grand villas with spectacular gardens and a lovely coastal path along the cliffs. There’s an exceedingly posh hotel (the  Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat ), a small beach and a whole host of yachts anchored off the point. Some superyachts spend weeks and even months anchored here in the summer as their guests flit between villa and yacht. It’s all rather refined, and very, very pretty.

Villefranche-sur-Mer  is probably our favourite of all the small port towns along the coast. Clinging on to the cliffs that run all the way from Nice to Monaco, this splendidly pretty medieval village and its stunning bay will really catch your eye. It gets quite busy in the summertime, but there’s enough room for you and the fleet of boats and even cruise ships that come to anchor in this little yachting paradise.

Eze  is a medieval village perched high on the cliffs 426m above the sea. An extraordinary sight and one well worth adding to your itinerary. There is a coastal path leading from the pretty pebbled beach (also with a good beach club), but be aware, the trail is very steep and quite slippery. It will take an hour going down, plus an hour and a half to come back.

Cap d’Ail   is   another gorgeous spot just before Monaco.  Plage Mala  is one of the best beaches on the Riviera and good to anchor off. It has a couple of good beach clubs (one very fancy, one very fun), and there’s a brilliant coastal path that runs between the town of Cap d’Ail and Plage Mala. Thoroughly recommended.

Monaco   is the final stop on the Riviera before you reach Italy, the towering, moneyed cliffs of Monte Carlo. Known for hosting the  F1 Grand Prix , giant yachts, grand casinos and the royal family living in their palace on the cliff, Monaco is a sight to be seen. The  port  is full of giant yachts and restaurants with terraces for some seriously good people-watching, especially during the Grand Prix. 

Fishing trips

There’s some good deep sea fishing off the coast, with tuna, marlin, swordfish and sea bream, and there are some good tour expeditions running out from major ports along the coast. 

To enjoy a day out on a family fishing trip then we recommend speaking to some of the specialist companies who offer guided trips and excursions or yacht charters for coastal or deep sea fishing. You have a few options for fishing charters with a range of budgets, from 50 euro per person for a casual affair to 2800 for 10 people for the day for the charter of a luxury sports fisher with professional fishermen. Most of the fishing excursions along this stretch of coast operate out of Golfe Juan or Mandelieu-la-Napoule, or in the other direction, out of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a port between Nice and Monaco.

Around the  ports and marinas of Nice , there may be some small local operators who don't have websites - you'll see signs saying 'Peche au Gros' in the port and you can enquire with them directly.

Races & events

The yachting and boating scene on the Cote d’Azur is both wonderfully glamorous and extremely relaxing, and there are certain exciting events where the only way to do them justice is to hire a boat and watch them from the water. If your budget allows, charter a yacht for a week, these events tend to make hotel prices skyrocket ashore, so once you’ve factored in a few couples sharing accommodation on a yacht it can work out surprisingly well.

Some companies will run special boat trips during the major events that are hosted in the area each year, such as the  Monaco Grand Prix . Even if your ‘yacht’ is just a small dayboat, there’s something about being on the water among the megayachts, watching the tenders buzz celebrities about and hearing the whine of the Formula One cars as they race around the Monte Carlo track.

There are  tremendous fireworks displays  in the bay of Cannes in the summertime, and there are few more special ways to see them than anchored off shore, drinking champagne and looking up at the explosions in the sky. The water is busy out here for these events with yachts parked absolutely everywhere, so make sure you really know your navigation rules or get a qualified skipper. Dayboat rental companies require you to have the boat back by 6pm, so this is something to do if you charter a yacht for longer or go with a  company who specialises in this type of boat trip .

Regatta season begins on the Cote d'Azur in June with the  Voiles d’Antibes , and moves along the coast with  regattas in Cannes  and Saint Tropez in September, with the biennial  Monaco Classic Week  also in September.

Safety advice

While the coastal winds tend to be quite gentle in the summer months, the south of France is subject to the Mistral, a cold northwesterly wind that can reach up to 100km an hour. The mistral tends to visit in the winter and spring and is particularly violent in the transition between those seasons.

When heading out onto the water along the French Riviera, no matter how close to the coastline, be sure to keep a good eye on the weather and ask at your boat rental company for advice if in doubt. Always bring a waterproof jacket in case the weather turns or a wind comes up, it can get cool on the water at night. Due to lack of space on boats, it's better to pack light and only bring soft luggage, never hard cases. 

The water can get very busy along the Cote d’Azur in the summer so be alert and watch out for other boats and people swimming at all times. If you notice any danger, notify the skipper of the boat as soon as you can. If you think you might get seasick, it’s always best to ask for non-drowsy seasickness tablets at a pharmacy beforehand.

Sailing with Children Make sure children wear a life jacket at all times. Never let them run around the boat or be unattended on deck and make sure they don’t swim alone.  

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• Breakfast Excursion
• Lérins Islands Excursion
• Monaco Excursion
• Villefranche Excursion
• Sunrise Excursion
• Sunset Excursion
• Privatisation

Sea excursions departing from Nice

« We offer swimming stops throughout our walks, in the most beautiful places of the French Riviera. Discover the flora and fauna that inhabit the seabed with Nissa Croisières.  »

OUR SEA EXCURSIONS & SUNSETS

Swimming/Snorkeling Ecomuseum + Visit of Lérins islands + Baie des Milliardaires + Antibes's Cap

Caves of la Mala + Breakfast in Eze + Swimming St Jean Cap Ferrat + Bay of Villefranche

Monaco + Lunch in Eze + Swimming / Snorkeling St Jean Cap Ferrat + Bay of Villefranche

Sunrise + Saint Jean Cap Ferrat + Breakfast + Swimming / Snorkeling

Sunset + Saint Jean Cap Ferrat + Authentic aperitif + Swimming / Snorkeling

Caves of la Mala + Eze + Swimming St Jean Cap Ferrat + 1h of visit in the port of Villefranche

Sea trip : how does it works .

Head to the port of Nice for departure.

Then we take you to exceptional places and you can swim there during our swimming breaks. You can find our destinations here .

Nissa Croisières also offers sunsets (sunsets), you can admire the most beautiful place to keep a souvenir with your family, your friends.

A private sea excursion

For a seminar, a team building or any other professional trip to Nice, our boat with skipper is at your disposal. We develop with you a tailor-made program (circuit, meals, visits and additional activities, etc.).

Nissa Croisières also offers a privatization with skipper for any private event such as bachelorette party (EVJF), bachelor party (EVG) or birthday party!

From Nice, your skipper will take you… wherever you want.

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• Amazing Day Trips To Take...

Amazing Day Trips to Take From Nice by Boat

As the capital of the French Riviera, Nice sets the scene for a chic yachting adventure. Around the port which leads on towards the Promenade des Anglais, traditional wooden fishing boats jostle for space alongside private yachts and the large passenger ferries that connect the French mainland with Corsica. The streets that crisscross behind the marina are full of trendy bars, cafes and boutiques, but these day trips are worth setting sail for.

Explore Europe’s most spectacular Rivieras with Culture Trip’s Sailing Trips.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

The pretty waterfront town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is a splash of pastel-coloured buildings, set against the bright blue of the Mediterranean Sea. With one of the deepest harbours along the French Riviera, the bay is popular with vessels of all sizes, from small pleasure boats to cruise liners. The 16th-century citadel houses a beautiful garden and several museums, as well as an open-air cinema in the summer months. At the entrance to the port, rooftop bar Achill’s attracts an international crowd looking for cocktails with a view.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

This leafy peninsula around the coast from Nice is the priciest postcode on the French Riviera. In prime position is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, once a grand private residence of the Rothschild family, now a museum with nine themed gardens. For a taste of the high life, enjoy a drink on the terrace at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a fancy Four Seasons hotel. The coastal trail around the headland leads past rocky alcoves and pine trees.

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Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Belle Epoque buildings and a fruit tree-lined promenade give Beaulieu-sur-Mer an air of understated Riviera glamour, although you may spot a celebrity or two over lunch at African Queen restaurant on the port. The olive trees of the nearby Jardin de l’Olivaie provide cool shade for a lunchtime picnic — stock up on supplies at the Super U supermarket in the centre of town. At the water’s edge, Villa Kerylos is a remarkable residence inspired by the noble houses of ancient Greece.

Paloma Beach

By the port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat with views across to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Paloma Beach (open May to September) is the quintessential French Riviera beach club. A timeless feel has made the spot favourite with film and TV producers — scenes from the 50 Shades of Grey franchise and Emily in Paris were filmed here. Sun loungers can be rented for the day and watersports equipment, such as stand-up paddleboards, for the hour.

Èze-sur-Mer

If you’re in the mood for table dancing at lunchtime, the parties at the turquoise-themed Anjuna restaurant and beach (open April to October) are legendary. Across the road, you’ll see signposts for the start of the Nietzsche Path. The track is a steep ascent to medieval Èze, the walled village perched on a rocky outcrop above the Mediterranean. You’ll need sturdy shoes and water, but the views from the top are worth it. Take a breather in the botanical gardens, then enjoy the trail back down.

The supercars and superyachts have made Monaco a byword for luxury and the bite-sized principality (equivalent in size to New York’s Central Park) is a place you need to visit at least once in your lifetime. The ornate Monte Carlo Casino is flanked by designer boutiques and a three-star Michelin restaurant, Le Louis XV, headed by Alain Ducasse. The quiet streets of the pedestrianised Le Rocher neighbourhood open out onto the Prince’s Palace. Time your visit for 11.55am and you’ll catch the changing of the guards.

Île Saint-Honorat

Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, collectively known as the Iles de Lérins, are located just off La Croisette in Cannes . On the smaller of the two, Île Saint-Honorat, you’ll meet a long-standing monastic community with a very modern environmental mindset. You can tour the 15th-century Cistercian monastery and taste the wine from the on-site vineyard, but you’ll need to ensure you take all your rubbish with you when you leave as there are no bins on the island.

Cannes Underwater Eco-Museum

Swimwear and snorkelling gear are the only equipment you’ll need to enjoy one of the French Riviera’s more unusual attractions, the Cannes Underwater Eco-Museum. At depths of up to 5m (16ft), close to the shore off the Île Sainte-Marguerite, British artist Jason deCaires Taylor has sculpted towering portraits of six local residents using environmentally-friendly materials – his first installation in the Mediterranean.

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43 walleye and a nice batch of perch: Our annual fishing trip to Lake Erie, and more Manitowoc-area outdoors news

O n May 19, Rick Schuh, Bill Mecha and I hooked up my 19-foot Alumacraft (INSTIGATOR) and headed to Lake Erie for our annual walleye fishing trip.

Our destination was Port Clinton, Ohio , where we would be launching the boat to fish near Kelleys Island in Lake Erie ’s western basin.

After the eight-hour drive, we started fishing about 3 p.m. Over the next six hours, we boated our 18-fish limit of walleye and a few jumbo perch that bit while trolling crawler harnesses.

Monday morning, we got out and caught five walleye, but a nasty thunderstorm had us headed to the mainland. We waited about three hours, then went back out. This time, we only caught two more walleye and a few more perch before the next thunderstorm came through, again chasing us to the mainland.

Tuesday morning, we started early, but it took quite a while before we got our first walleye. We figured that was because the storms had the lake whipped up. When the bite finally started, it only took about six hours and we had another limit of 18 walleye and six jumbo perch.

We originally planned to fish on Wednesday as well, but with the forecast of very high winds, we decided to call it a vacation.

All told, we brought home 43 walleye and a nice batch of perch, so we were again well pleased with our annual trip.

We also threw back lots of undersized walleye, so the future of walleye fishing on Lake Erie looks very good for years to come.

Read last week's column: Take a hike on National Trails Day, and more in your latest Manitowoc outdoors report

Ice cream social at Camp Sinawa June 5

Camp Sinawa , 9113 Sinawa Road, Valders, will hold an ice cream social from 5 to 8 p.m. June 5.

After a year off, it is back and better than ever. Not only will there be delicious ice cream and toppings, but co-chairman Greg Stebnitz has arranged for local dairy dignitaries and giveaways.

Plus, Cory Geiger, author of “ On a Wisconsin Family Farm ,” will talk about his experiences and writing his book.

Cost of the ice cream social is by donation.

Take County Road J 4 miles south of Valders to Camp Sinawa.

Spring Bloom Walk at Van der Brohe Arboretum June 9

Van der Brohe Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary , 3800 Lincoln Ave., Two Rivers, will hold a Spring Bloom Walk from 1 to 3 p.m. June 9.

Explore the grounds and immerse yourself in the colorful display of blooming flowers. Participants can stroll scenic pathways, take in fresh air and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of nature in full bloom. Admission is free.

Learn more at vanderbrohearboretum.org or email [email protected] .

Two Rivers’ Coast Guard station unstaffed this summer

Mike Hafertepe, of Coast Guard Station Sheboygan , has reached out regarding changes to staffing. He said the Coast Guard wants to get the following message out:

Due to the Coast Guard personnel shortage, we are no longer able to man our small station in Two Rivers. This means, from Memorial Day to Labor Day when we would normally have a crew with assets ready to respond up from Two Rivers, we will no longer have that luxury. With that, if we receive any search-and-rescue or law enforcement calls up that way, it is still our area of responsibility, but with a much longer response time.

Fish and Game offering $2,500 scholarships

Manitowoc County Fish and Game Protective Association will be providing two $2,500 scholarships for the 2024-2025 school year. This continues a history of helping bring local students into careers involved in hunting, fishing, conservation and related programming.

For undergraduate students to be eligible for the scholarship, the student must be entering their junior or senior year of college.

For graduate students to be eligible for the scholarship, the student must have completed their undergraduate degree by June 30.

Deadline to apply is June 14.

Scholarship applications can be obtained by visiting mantyfg.org and clicking on scholarships, or by contacting Dan Cichantek at 920-901-9449.

More Bob Schuh: Click here to read more Scoping the Great Outdoors columns

Manitowoc Salmon Derby just around the corner

We went down to the Manitowoc Marina just to check things out and found that lots of fish were being cleaned. That is a very good sign to start the season.

Mark your calendars for July 5-7 as those are the dates of the Manitowoc Salmon Derby put on by the Northeastern Wisconsin Great Lakes Sport Fishermen. I will have more details as I get them regarding the derby and the entertainment.

That’s it for this week, so have fun in the great outdoors.

Outdoors columnist Bob Schuh’s  “Scoping the Great Outdoors” column  appears each Sunday in the Herald Times Reporter. He can be reached at 920-682-3106 or  [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: 43 walleye and a nice batch of perch: Our annual fishing trip to Lake Erie, and more Manitowoc-area outdoors news