Exclusive excursion on a Riva Yacht

A Closer Look at the Exclusive Riva Yacht Tour in Monaco

Imagine gliding along the shimmering waters of the French Riviera on a sleek, elegant Riva yacht, with only a handful of fellow travelers. This 2.5-hour private excursion offers a tailored escape from busy beaches and crowded streets, starting from the charming port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Led by a multilingual captain, you’ll explore secret bays like La Mala and the legendary Paloma Beach, with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels—whether you want to linger longer or explore new spots, the captain makes it happen. Plus, the all-inclusive nature means drinks, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear are provided, so you can truly unwind without worrying about extra costs. The one potential downside? If you’re prone to seasickness, this boat-based adventure might not be ideal. But for those craving a private, luxurious taste of the Riviera from the water, this tour hits the spot perfectly.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic scenic beauty, intimate settings, and a flexible schedule. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or families up to six wanting a bespoke experience that blends comfort with adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private & customizable: Designed for small groups, you can tailor the itinerary to your preferences.
• Stunning locations only accessible by sea: Discover hidden gems like La Mala Beach and Paloma Beach.
• All-inclusive service: Drinks, snacks, towels, snorkeling gear, and fuel are included, offering excellent value.
• Expert multilingual captain: Guides you safely while sharing insights in four languages.
• Flexible duration options: Standard 2.5 hours, with the possibility to extend up to 5 hours for an additional cost.
• Perfect for relaxed, scenic days: Ideal for those seeking a blend of serene swimming and picturesque cruising.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Quai É Whitechurch, Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Your journey begins at the picturesque port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, marked by a distinctive whale tail statue. This charming spot sets the mood for an elegant day on the water. The captain welcomes you aboard the Riva yacht, renowned for its timeless style and comfort—the perfect vessel to cruise the Riviera in style.

First Stop: La Mala Beach

Set sail for La Mala Beach, a hidden treasure accessible only by boat. Cliffs tower above, and the secluded cove offers a quiet escape from more crowded beaches. We loved the way the yacht gently rocked as we sipped drinks and admired the panoramic views. The one-hour stop here is usually enough for swimming or simply relaxing on deck, but if you’re eager to linger longer, you can ask your captain about extending your stay.

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Second Stop: Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Next, the yacht glides around the coast to Paloma Beach, famous for its movie-star appeal and lush surroundings. Enclosed by cliffs, this beach’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. We appreciated how the captain provided snorkeling equipment, making it easy to explore underwater life. The one-hour period allows for a thorough dip and some relaxing sunbathing.

Customizable Experience

While the scheduled stops are La Mala and Paloma, the tour is flexible. You can choose to explore Villefranche-sur-Mer or cruise along the coast toward Nice, depending on your mood. The captain’s multilingual skills (English, French, Italian, and more) help create a rich, engaging commentary—whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned Riviera visitor.

Optional Longer Tours

If 2.5 hours isn’t enough, you can extend your adventure to up to 5 hours for a fee of €1,000 per person. This is ideal if you want to include more beaches or spend more time swimming and relaxing.

What Makes This Yacht Tour Stand Out?

The quality of the boat itself is a significant highlight. Riva yachts are symbols of elegance and craftsmanship, offering a comfortable and stylish setting for your cruise. Inside, you’ll find shaded areas, a cabin for rest, an open shower, and ample space to unwind. The inclusion of towels, snorkeling gear, and refreshments adds to the convenience, making it a true all-in-one experience.

The personal captain, who speaks four languages, ensures safety and provides insightful commentary about the area’s history and hidden spots. Their flexibility to customize the route based on your wishes makes the experience feel truly tailored—not a cookie-cutter tour.

Authentic and intimate, this trip offers a sense of privacy that larger boat tours can’t match. As one reviewer said, “It’s a perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy the Riviera’s coastline in peace.”

The Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour begins and ends at the debarcadère in Quai É Whitechurch, easily accessible and full of charming character. The total duration is 2.5 hours, but you can extend it if desired, which is particularly appealing for those wanting a more leisurely day. You should arrive wearing sunscreen, hats, and beachwear—remember, this is about soaking up the sun and enjoying the views.

What’s included is impressive—boat rental, captain service, towels, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and fuel for the half-day tour. There’s an open shower and shaded areas, making the experience comfortable even on warm days.

Not included are picnic lunches or alcoholic beverages—snacks are provided onboard, but if you’re craving a full meal or some wine, you’d need to bring your own or plan accordingly. Also, for those considering additional gear like a seascooter, it’s available for €50 extra.

Navigating Practicalities and Tips

• Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve with the flexibility of paying later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.
• Group Size: The tour is private, ideally suited for 2-6 persons, making for a cozy, personalized experience.
• What to bring: Pack sunglasses, sun hats, biodegradable sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Remember, high heels and pets are not allowed onboard.
• Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, discuss options with the captain beforehand, as the trip involves boat travel.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

From the reviews and our own impressions, this tour excels at offering stunning views and exclusive access to areas only visible from the sea. The calm, luxurious environment combined with flexible scheduling makes it perfect for a romantic day, a small family adventure, or a special celebration.

While the price per person might seem high, the all-inclusive nature—covering drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and fuel—ensures that there are no hidden costs sneaking up on you. Plus, the exclusivity and comfort of a private yacht elevate the experience far beyond a typical boat ride.

Many travelers appreciated the chance to swim in unspoiled bays and enjoy the Riviera’s coastline away from the crowds, emphasizing how this creates a more genuine, relaxing feel. The tailored itinerary and attentive captain help ensure that everyone gets the most from their time on the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private yacht experience is ideal for those seeking luxury, tranquility, and personalized service. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups wanting a memorable day, or travelers eager to explore the Riviera’s hidden corners from the water. If you enjoy stunning scenery, swimming, and a touch of elegance, this tour aligns well with your interests.

However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly activity or prefer a more structured group tour with multiple stops, you might want to explore other options. Also, those sensitive to motion might want to think twice, as boat trips can sometimes be choppy.

Final Thoughts

This Riva yacht tour combines luxury, authenticity, and flexibility to deliver a memorable French Riviera experience. The attention to detail—comfortable boat, multilingual captain, inclusive amenities—ensures you can focus on the breathtaking scenery and peaceful swimming. It’s a wonderful way to see the coast’s secret spots without the hassle of crowded beaches or noisy tours.

For travelers craving a personalized, scenic escape from the usual tourist trail, this excursion offers a taste of Riviera elegance and natural beauty that’s hard to match. Whether you want a short afternoon of sun and sea or a longer, more in-depth cruise, this experience delivers genuine value in a stunning setting.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts 2.5 hours, but you can extend it up to 5 hours for an additional €1,000 per person.

What locations are visited?
Stops typically include La Mala Beach and Paloma Beach, with options to explore Villefranche-sur-Mer or cruise toward Nice.

What’s included in the price?
All essentials—boat rental, captain, towels, drinks, snorkeling gear, and fuel—are included, making it a good value for a luxury experience.

Is food provided on the tour?
Only light snacks (crackers, chips) are included; no full meals or alcoholic drinks are offered, so plan accordingly.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is a key part of the experience, with snorkeling gear provided, and stops for swimming are scheduled.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming, but consider age and seasickness susceptibility.

How many people can join?
The tour is for private groups of 2-6 persons, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and biodegradable insect repellent. No high heels or pets allowed onboard.

This yacht tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, exclusivity, and comfort that’s perfect for those wanting to experience the Riviera in style and intimacy. It’s a memorable way to see some of France’s most beautiful coastal spots, all while enjoying the luxury and leisure of a private boat.

You can check availability for your dates here: