Imagine gliding across the crystal-clear waters of the French Riviera, surrounded by stunning coastlines, luxurious yachts, and charming seaside villages. For those seeking an authentic and personalized experience, this private boat tour starting in Sainte-Maxime offers the perfect way to explore the Golfe de Saint Tropez at your own pace. Priced at $1,036 for up to eight guests, the tour lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with options for a half-day or full-day adventure that promises both sightseeing and relaxation.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines luxury with local insights—your captain, Patrick, is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing fascinating stories behind the coast’s most famous sights. The chance to cruise past Port Grimaud’s colorful cottages and witness the mega yachts in Saint Tropez from the water makes it genuinely special. On a full-day tour, snorkeling in Cap Lardier’s clear waters and visiting the legendary Pampelonne Beach add genuine adventure to the day.
One potential consideration is that this tour is not suitable for everyone—it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those prone to seasickness, or travelers with mobility issues. Still, if you’re comfortable on boats and eager to see the Riviera from the water, this trip is a fabulous choice. It’s especially perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored, intimate experience away from crowded tours.
Key Points
- Private and personalized experience with a knowledgeable captain.
- Visit iconic sights like Saint Tropez, Port Grimaud, Pampelonne Beach, and Cap Lardier.
- Snorkeling and swimming opportunities in pristine water.
- Flexible itinerary—half-day or full-day options available.
- All-inclusive refreshments, including soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks, and ice cream.
- Ideal for small groups up to eight persons seeking an authentic Riviera experience.
Exploring the French Riviera by Private Boat
When thinking about the perfect way to see the South of France, few options match the bespoke charm of a private boat tour. The experience begins in Sainte-Maxime, a lovely seaside town that acts as a gateway to the famous Golfe de Saint Tropez. From here, your captain will take you on a scenic cruise past some of the most iconic sights along this glamorous coast.
Starting Point and First Sights
The journey kicks off at Port de Sainte Maxime, a friendly harbor with a lively atmosphere and a convenient location. The quick five-minute walk from your hotel or accommodation gets you to the meeting point, where your captain will greet you with a welcoming smile and a photo or Google Maps link via WhatsApp or SMS.
Once onboard, the tour first heads toward Port Grimaud, often called the “Venice of Provence” because of its picturesque canals and colorful houses. The 45-minute cruise here offers a chance to marvel at this unique town from the water, which many reviews describe as a fairytale setting.
A Closer Look at Saint Tropez
Next, the boat glides toward Saint Tropez, the glamour capital of the Riviera. From the water, you’ll see the luxurious yachts docked in the port, which is a highlight for many travelers. Your guide often shares insights about the famous residents and the history behind this lively spot. The 30-minute cruise offers a different perspective than land-based tours, giving you a more relaxed and exclusive view of Saint Tropez’s charm.
Villa La Madrague and Baie des Canebiers
Continuing along, you’ll pass Villa La Madrague, known as Brigitte Bardot’s former home—a spot that adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to your trip. Then, the boat heads toward Baie des Canebiers, a prime location for relaxing, with 45 minutes to enjoy local snacks, drinks, and perhaps some swimming or snorkeling.
More Great Tours NearbyFull-Day Highlights: Pampelonne Beach & Cap Lardier
For those opting for the full-day experience, the tour takes you to Pampelonne Beach in Ramatuelle. This legendary stretch of sand is famous for its beach clubs, celebrity sightings, and lively atmosphere. Expect to spend around 75 minutes here, soaking up the sun or enjoying a drink at a beachside bar.
The next stop is Cap Lardier, a quiet spot renowned for its crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. With over an hour and a half available, you’ll have plenty of time to swim and explore the marine life in these pristine waters. Many reviews mention that the snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy for families and beginners.
Return and Optional Drop-offs
After a full day of sightseeing and swimming, your captain will bring you back to Port de Sainte Maxime. If you wish, they can also drop you off at a beach club or other location—just remember to make reservations ahead of time.
What Is Included and What To Bring
The tour’s all-inclusive package features soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks, and ice cream, so you can relax without worrying about extra costs. They also provide 6 towels and 6 snorkels, making it easy to enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
However, you’ll need to bring your own swimwear and beachwear—the tour doesn’t include clothing or footwear. Water skiing isn’t permitted here, but that’s a minor disappointment for most. Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring a picnic or plan to buy at a beach club. The boat is well-equipped with a fridge, and the captain can drop you off at a place of your choosing.
The Itinerary in Detail
Each stop offers something unique, but the overall benefit is the ability to tailor your experience. The 45-minute cruise to Port Grimaud is a gentle introduction, letting you see a pastel-colored town from a different angle. This is perfect for those dreaming of a Venetian-inspired landscape.
The Saint Tropez approach from the water reveals the scale and glamour of the yachts and the bustling harbor, which can be quite different from the crowded streets. Many reviews highlight how special it is to view the famous homes in Baie Canebiers, such as Brigitte Bardot’s former residence, adding a touch of celebrity allure.
The full-day option with a visit to Pampelonne Beach is the highlight for many. Its reputation as a hotspot for celebrities and its long stretch of sandy shoreline make it a must-see. The 105-minute snorkeling at Cap Lardier is a favorite among travelers who want an active component—many remarks mention that the snorkels provided are of good quality and that the water is incredibly clear.
Authentic and Knowledgeable Guide
A recurring theme in reviews is the expertise and friendliness of the captain, Patrick. We loved that he shared stories and insights about the coast, the homes along the bay, and local history. His attention to safety and comfort makes for a smooth, enjoyable trip—many travelers describe him as “super friendly” and “very knowledgeable.”
The Value of a Private Tour
At around $1,036 for up to 8 people, this tour offers excellent value for a personalized experience. The privacy, flexibility, and intimate atmosphere make it a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling with family or friends.
Potential Drawbacks
The main limitation is that this experience isn’t for everyone—particularly, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people prone to seasickness. Also, since it’s a private tour, it requires some planning, like making reservations and possibly arranging your own lunch.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This experience is ideal for small groups or families looking for a luxurious, personalized day on the water. It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowd-heavy excursions and prefer a more relaxed, intimate setting. If you’re interested in luxury yachts, celebrity homes, and stunning coastal scenery, this tour will deliver in spades. It’s also a great choice if you love snorkeling and swimming in secluded waters.
If you’re traveling with a group of friends or family eager for a flexible itinerary and insider knowledge from a friendly captain, this private boat trip offers authenticity and fun without the hassle of large tour groups.
How long does the tour last?
The tour can be anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on whether you choose the half-day or full-day option.
What is included in the price?
All refreshments, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without extra costs.
Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, be sure to bring your own swimwear and beachwear. Water skiing isn’t allowed, but snorkeling gear is provided.
Can I be dropped off at a beach club?
Yes, the captain can drop you off at any beach club you prefer, but make sure to make reservations beforehand.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention that it’s safe and enjoyable for families, especially with provided snorkeling gear, but check with the operator about specific age restrictions.
What language does the guide speak?
Guides speak Dutch, English, and German, ensuring clear communication.
Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Port de Sainte Maxime, with a quick walk from most accommodations.
Is this tour flexible?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary within the options of half-day or full-day, and the captain is happy to suggest activities.
This private boat tour from Sainte-Maxime offers a luxurious, personalized way to explore the famous French Riviera. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in a way that larger group tours can’t match. The knowledgeable captain and all-inclusive refreshments ensure a stress-free day, making it ideal for those wanting a special, intimate adventure.
While not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or seasickness—most travelers will appreciate the authenticity, comfort, and stunning views of this trip. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable way to see the coast, this tour delivers a blend of luxury and local charm that’s hard to beat.
If your goal is to experience the glamour and natural beauty of the French Riviera with a private, flexible approach, this boat trip is a fantastic choice. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, surrounded by some of Europe’s most beautiful seascapes and famous sights.
Note: Always confirm your preferred itinerary and special requests in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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