Cannes has three main marinas, the Vieux Port below Le Suquet, Port Pierre Canto beside the Croisette and the Port Cannes Marina at La Bocca. Day charters range from a skippered yacht cruise to the Lérins Islands, with a swim stop, to self-drive licence-free boats for up to 5 people in daylight. Sailing schools run lessons in dinghies and catamarans from the beaches. The sea is calm in the morning, and the afternoon sea breeze (the Mistral can also blow in winter) builds to 15-20 knots in summer. Charter prices vary widely with the boat and season and rise sharply during the Film Festival and Cannes Yachting Festival in September.
| Price | Self-drive boat about EUR 150-300 (~$172-345) per half day; skippered cruise from about EUR 60-120 (~$69-138) per person |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half day to full day |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | May-October |
| Age limit | No minimum for passengers; children must wear life jackets |
| Address | Quai Saint-Pierre, Vieux Port, 06400 Cannes, France |
Activity facts
- Where
- Vieux Port and Port Pierre Canto, Cannes
- Skill level
- Beginner
Equipment
Swimwear, sun protection, soft-sole shoes, light waterproof jacket
Location
Quai Saint-Pierre, Vieux Port, 06400 Cannes, France
43.5503, 7.0143 View on map
Highlights
- Views of Cannes from the sea
- Swim stops off the Lérins
- Licence-free boats for small groups
- Sailing lessons
Tips for visiting
- Book months ahead for May and September
- Check the weather and swell the day before
- Ask the charter company what the deposit and fuel policy is
When to visit
May to October.
Accessibility
Pontoons and boarding are difficult for wheelchair users; some larger charter yachts offer easy boarding.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence?
Licence-free boats are available for up to 5 people with low engine power; larger boats need a skipper or licence.
When is the Yachting Festival?
Usually in September in the Vieux Port and Port Pierre Canto.