Why Go Sailing in France?
If you're looking for a place where you can sail to the open sea, enjoy the sea breeze and soak up the sun, then charter a yacht in France. Whether you're looking for a quiet day on the water or an epic journey to discover new places, France has got it all. From the picturesque beaches in Corsica to the historic ports of Normandy, and opulent French Riviera, there's no shortage of sights to see as you cruise along the French coast. As the world's most luxurious sailing destination, France is the perfect place to charter a yacht and set off on an unforgettable adventure.
Sailing Regions in France
Sailing Conditions in France
Sailing time in France is from April to October and, in general, sailing conditions are very friendly: mild climate, favourable winds and small tides. Like in most attractive destinations, July and August are most popular with many tourists chartering a yacht at the same time, while June and September have great climate and more economic yacht charter prices.
Due to its size, France has several different climates that vary from region to region, making it a popular sailing destination.
North and west tend to be cooler and wetter, while the Mediterranean climate predominates in the south-eastern part, including the French Riviera. Corsica also has a typical Mediterranean climate.
When it comes to winds, they are usually mild and provide the perfect conditions for chartering a sailboat. Mistral blows mostly in spring and winter in the south-eastern part of the country. It has a couple of different forms: Mistral Blanc is usually accompanied by blue skies, Mistral Noir brings clouds and rains, and Summer Mistral that can quickly lower the sea surface temperature, as the wind pushes the warm surface water out to sea and causes upwelling of colder water from greater depths.
Tramontane is a powerful, dry, and chilly wind that blows from the north or the northwest, while marin is a warm and damp (or sometimes even wet) wind that brings cloud and rain, especially to the hilly or mountainous areas inland. By the time marin reaches the sea, the clouds have often already been dispersed; so, the coastal areas are less impacted by the marin. Cers can be foretold by glorious red sunsets as those sunsets create ideal conditions for cers - usually dry and cold in winter and hot and dry in summer. Sirocco’s effects can be felt in southwestern France.
Boat Types in France
Important Info for Sailing in France
Best time to sail
April - October
Weather/Climate
Mediterranean
Sailing license
Not required, only adequate sailing resume (experience is recommended)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Spoken language
French
Top attractions
French Riviera, Island of Corsica, Bay of Biscay, Dune of Pyla, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, historic ports, villages & beaches in Brittany, Paris & Versailles, The Châteaux of the Loire Valley, Provence
Top Reasons to Visit France
France's long and diverse coastline is what makes it an attractive yacht charter destination. It is the French Riviera that attracts the most sailors because of a perfect combo of mild climate, picturesque landscape, and great sailing conditions with small tides. Saint-Tropez will amaze you with exclusive beach clubs, designer stores and its famous clock tower. Do not miss an opportunity to see Picasso’s art in the Musée Picasso in Antibes, an ancient Greek and Roman fortified town. Taste first-class food from three Michelin-starred restaurants in Cannes and feel the life of film celebrities. Enjoy upscale casinos and ornate Salle Garnier opera house in Monaco. All these destinations have become synonymous with opulence, glamour, fashion, and luxury yacht charter.
Yachting in France should not go without visiting its oldest city – Marseille. For all those boat lovers out there, a visit to the cube-shaped Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations with a portion built underwater is a must. When in Marseille, try bouillabaisse, the world-famous fish stew that originates from this area. Chartering a yacht in June gives you the opportunity to witness the entire city becoming a big concert stage, as it is then that Fête de la Musique, a big music festival with free concerts, takes place.
Charter a yacht in La Trinité-sur-Mer and sail around Quiberon Bay to visit the stunning bays and islands, take a walk around old fishing villages and traditional Brittany cottages with amazing views. Do not miss out on the local specialties – seafood and crepes. Relax on one of sandy beaches and visit the famous standing stones near Carnac.
Experience unique blend of French and Italian charm as well as warm, Mediterranean climate and rich cultural heritage as you cruise along Corsica’s magnificent coast on your boat rental. In a bay surrounded by mountains you will find the capital city of Corsica and the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte – Ajaccio.
