Boat Hire In Cannes | BoatHire24

You want boat hire in Cannes, but the options are a blur of glossy brochures and hidden fees. We get it. Cannes is the French Riviera’s show-off sibling: the red-carpet crowd, the superyachts, the EUR 20 cocktails. But hiring a boat here doesn’t have to be a money pit. At BoatHire24, we connect you with skippered boats from Cannes, Antibes, and Nice for a day on the water that actually makes sense. No skipper license needed, no surprises, just a boat that fits your crew and your wallet.

Whether you want a RIB for a quick blast to the Lérins Islands, a motor yacht for a glamorous cruise past the Palais des Festivals, or a catamaran for a lazy afternoon with drinks, we’ve got the lot. Prices start from around EUR 450 for a half-day on a 6-metre RIB, and go up to price on request for a 30-metre superyacht. All boats include a licensed skipper, fuel, and basic insurance. You just turn up, step aboard, and let someone else do the steering.

What’s Included in a Cannes Boat Hire

Every boat hire through BoatHire24 comes with a licensed skipper who knows the local waters. That means no paperwork, no stress about anchoring, and no worrying about weather forecasts. The skipper handles navigation, mooring, and safety briefings. Fuel is included in the price for standard cruising distances (usually up to 30 nautical miles per day). Insurance is also covered, so you’re not liable for damage beyond a standard deposit (typically EUR 500 to EUR 2,000, refundable). Onboard you’ll find life jackets, a first aid kit, and basic safety equipment required by French maritime law. Some boats also include snorkelling gear, a cooler, or a Bluetooth speaker. Check the individual listing for specifics.

Departure Ports for Cannes Boat Hire

You can depart from several ports along the Côte d’Azur. The most popular is Port Pierre Canto in Cannes itself, right next to the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette. It’s a large marina with plenty of parking (paid) and easy access to the bay. Port de Cannes (Vieux Port) is smaller but closer to the old town and the Marché Forville. From Antibes, about 20 minutes east, you have Port Vauban, one of the largest marinas in Europe. It’s a good choice if you want to explore the Cap d’Antibes or head towards Nice. Port de Nice is further east, about 40 minutes by road from Cannes, and offers direct access to Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Baie des Anges. Each port has its own vibe and proximity to different cruising grounds. We recommend choosing based on where you’re staying and what you want to see.

Types of Boats Available for Hire in Cannes

The range is broad. Motor yachts from 8 to 20 metres are the classic choice: fast, stable, and with plenty of deck space for sunbathing. A 12-metre motor yacht can seat 8 to 10 people and costs from around EUR 1,200 for a half-day. Catamarans are wider and more stable, ideal for groups who want to move around without feeling seasick. A 14-metre catamaran fits 12 guests and starts at EUR 1,800 for a full day. Sailing yachts are quieter and more eco-friendly, but slower. A 12-metre sailing yacht with a skipper costs from EUR 900 for a half-day. RIBs and speedboats are the budget option: 6 to 8 metres, seating 6 to 8 people, from EUR 450 for a half-day. They’re perfect for a quick trip to the islands or a water sports session. Fishing boats are available too, usually 7 to 9 metres with basic fishing gear. Prices start at EUR 600 for a half-day. Superyachts over 24 metres are available on request, with prices starting at EUR 8,000 per day. For a full list, see our boat search page.

Popular Itineraries from Cannes

A typical half-day trip (4 hours) from Cannes heads to the Lérins Islands: Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat. Sainte-Marguerite has a small beach, a fort, and pine forests. Saint-Honorat is quieter, with a monastery and vineyards. The crossing takes about 20 minutes from Cannes. For a full day (8 hours), you can go east to the Cap d’Antibes, stop for lunch at a beach restaurant in Juan-les-Pins, then cruise past the Billionaire’s Quay in Antibes. Alternatively, head west to Théoule-sur-Mer and the red rocks of the Esterel Massif, where the water is clear and the cliffs are dramatic. If you want a longer trip, you can go to Saint-Tropez (about 2.5 hours from Cannes by fast boat) or Monaco (1.5 hours). These require a full-day booking and extra fuel costs may apply. Dolphins are occasionally spotted near the Lérins Islands, especially in spring and autumn.

Pricing and What Affects the Cost

Prices vary by boat size, type, season, and duration. A half-day (4 hours) on a 6-metre RIB costs from EUR 450. A half-day on a 10-metre motor yacht starts at EUR 900. Full-day rates are roughly double the half-day rate. Superyachts are price on request. Peak season is July and August, when prices can be 20% to 30% higher. June and September are shoulder months with lower rates and still good weather (25°C to 28°C water temperature). May and October are cheaper but cooler (20°C to 23°C). Weekends are more expensive than weekdays. Some operators charge extra for fuel beyond 30 nautical miles, or for additional crew like a hostess or chef. Always check the cancellation policy: most require 48 hours’ notice for a full refund. Deposits are usually refunded within 7 days after the charter, minus any damage.

Who Is Cannes Boat Hire For?

Cannes boat hire works for couples, families, groups of friends, and corporate events. Couples often choose a small motor yacht or a sailing yacht for a romantic sunset cruise. Families with kids prefer catamarans or RIBs because of the stability and space. Groups of 8 to 12 people usually go for a motor yacht or catamaran with a water slide or paddleboard. Corporate groups book superyachts for client entertainment or team-building. Solo travellers can join a shared charter if available, but most boats are private. If you’re planning a wedding proposal, a birthday party, or a networking event, many operators can arrange catering, decorations, or a photographer. Just mention it when you book.

How to Book Boat Hire in Cannes

Booking is straightforward. Go to our search page, enter Cannes as the departure port, select your date and group size, and browse available boats. Each listing shows photos, specifications, price, and cancellation policy. You can request a quote or book directly online. Payment is by credit card or bank transfer. We recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance during summer, and 1 week in shoulder seasons. Last-minute bookings (within 48 hours) are possible but limited. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation with the skipper’s contact details and meeting point. On the day, arrive 15 minutes early at the port. The skipper will greet you, do a safety briefing, and you’re off. For more tips, read our blog on what to bring and what to expect.

Weather and Best Time for a Boat Trip

The best months for boat hire in Cannes are June to September, when the weather is warm (25°C to 30°C air temperature) and the sea is calm. July and August are the hottest and busiest, with sea temperatures around 26°C. May and October are cooler but still pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices. The Mistral wind can blow in spring and autumn, causing choppy seas, but skippers will advise if it’s safe to go out. In winter (November to March), most boats are not available for hire, and the water is too cold for swimming (below 18°C). If you’re flexible, aim for June or September for the best balance of weather and price.

Local Tips for Your Cannes Boat Hire

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun on the water is intense even in spring. Pack a swimsuit and a towel if you plan to swim. Most boats have a small fridge, so you can bring your own drinks and snacks, but many operators offer catering options (EUR 20 to EUR 50 per person for a lunch platter). If you’re prone to seasickness, take a tablet an hour before departure. The skipper can suggest anchor spots away from the crowds, like the Calanque d’Anthéor or the Baie de la Figueirette. For a truly memorable experience, book a sunset cruise from 6pm to 9pm. The light on the Esterel cliffs is stunning, and you’ll see Cannes lit up from the water.

Why Choose Cannes for Your Boat Hire

Cannes sits right in the middle of the French Riviera, which gives you access to some of the best cruising grounds in the Mediterranean. The bay is sheltered by the Lérins Islands, so the sea is usually calm even when other parts of the coast get choppy. You can leave from Port Pierre Canto and be at the islands in 15 minutes, or head east to Antibes in 30. The water is clear enough to see the seabed at 10 metres depth, especially near the Esterel Massif. If you want a day trip that feels like a proper escape, Cannes is hard to beat. The marina facilities are modern, with fuel docks, water, and electricity at every berth. Parking at Port Pierre Canto costs around EUR 25 for a full day, but there’s a public car park under the Palais des Festivals for EUR 15.

Specific Boats You Can Hire in Cannes

To give you a concrete idea, here are some real examples from the BoatHire24 fleet. A Jeanneau 8-metre motor yacht seats 6 people, has a small cabin, and costs from EUR 700 for a half-day. A Beneteau 12-metre sailing yacht seats 8, has a galley and two cabins, and costs from EUR 950 for a half-day. A Lagoon 14-metre catamaran seats 12, has a flybridge and a trampoline net at the bow, and costs from EUR 1,900 for a full day. A Zodiac 7-metre RIB with a 250 hp engine seats 8, hits 40 knots, and costs from EUR 500 for a half-day. A Fishing boat like the Quicksilver 7.5-metre seats 6, includes basic rods and tackle, and costs from EUR 650 for a half-day. For a superyacht, the 30-metre Lady Lola sleeps 10 guests in 5 cabins, has a jacuzzi and a beach club, and costs from EUR 15,000 per day. Prices vary by date and operator, so check the listing for exact rates.

What to Do During Your Cannes Boat Trip

Most people use the boat as a base for swimming, sunbathing, and eating. The Lérins Islands have several anchorages where you can drop the hook and jump in. The water is usually 5 to 10 metres deep, clear, and calm. If you want a beach, head to Plage de la Figueirette near Théoule-sur-Mer, a small sandy cove surrounded by red cliffs. For lunch, you can moor at a restaurant with a buoy, like La Plage du Château on Île Sainte-Marguerite (booking required, around EUR 50 per person for a fixed menu). Alternatively, bring a picnic and anchor off the Cap d’Antibes. If you want to explore on foot, the skipper can drop you at the port of Saint-Honorat, where you can visit the monastery and buy wine from the monks. For a longer trip, you can go to the Gorges du Verdon by boat, but that’s a 4-hour cruise from Cannes, so you’d need a full-day booking and a fast boat.

Cost Breakdown for a Typical Cannes Boat Hire

Here’s a realistic budget for a half-day charter for 6 people on a 10-metre motor yacht. The base price is EUR 1,000. Fuel for 30 nautical miles costs around EUR 150, but it’s included in the price for standard cruising. Catering for lunch adds EUR 30 per person, so EUR 180 total. A deposit of EUR 1,000 is refundable. Tips for the skipper are optional but customary at 10% to 15% of the charter fee. So the total outlay is EUR 1,180 plus a refundable deposit. Split six ways, that’s EUR 197 per person. For a full-day trip to Saint-Tropez, add EUR 300 for extra fuel and EUR 50 per person for a restaurant lunch. The extra crew for a hostess costs EUR 200 per day. Always confirm what’s included in the price before booking, as some operators charge extra for fuel beyond 30 NM.

When to Book Your Cannes Boat Hire

June and September are the sweet spots. The weather is warm, the sea is calm, and the crowds are thinner than in July and August. In June, the water temperature is around 22°C, rising to 26°C in August. September is still pleasant, with air temperatures of 25°C and water at 24°C. July and August are peak season, so prices are higher and availability is lower. Book at least 3 weeks in advance for those months. May and October are cheaper but riskier: the Mistral wind can blow, and the water is cooler (18°C to 20°C). If you’re flexible on dates, aim for a weekday in June or September. Weekends in July can be 30% more expensive than weekdays in June. For a sunset cruise, book for 6pm to 9pm in summer, when the sun sets around 9pm.

How to Get to the Departure Ports

If you’re flying in, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the closest, about 30 minutes by taxi (EUR 60 to EUR 80) or 45 minutes by train (EUR 10 from Nice to Cannes station). From Cannes station, it’s a 10-minute walk to Port Pierre Canto or a 5-minute taxi (EUR 10). If you’re driving, the A8 motorway has exits for Cannes and Antibes. Parking at Port Pierre Canto costs EUR 25 for a full day, but there’s free street parking 10 minutes away near the Palm Beach area. For Port Vauban in Antibes, parking costs EUR 20 per day. For Port de Nice, parking is EUR 30 per day. If you’re staying in Cannes, most hotels are within walking distance of the port. We recommend arriving 15 minutes before departure to meet the skipper and stow your bags.

What to Bring on Your Cannes Boat Hire

Pack light. A small backpack with sunscreen (SPF 50, water-resistant), a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit. A towel that dries quickly. A light jacket or windbreaker, even in summer, because the wind can be cool at 25 knots. Waterproof phone case if you want to take photos from the water. Snorkelling mask if you have one (some boats provide them). Drinks and snacks if you’re not ordering catering. A cooler bag with ice packs. Cash for tips and any extras (most places accept cards, but some beach restaurants prefer cash). Seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness. A book or a speaker for music (the skipper will have a Bluetooth connection). Leave valuables at the hotel; there’s limited storage on smaller boats.

Safety and Skipper Qualifications

Every skipper on BoatHire24 holds a valid French licence (either a permis plaisance or an equivalent international certificate). They have at least 2 years of experience in the local waters. They will do a safety briefing at the start of the trip, covering life jacket locations, emergency procedures, and the route. The boat has a VHF radio, flares, and a first aid kit. In case of bad weather, the skipper has the authority to cancel or shorten the trip. If the sea state exceeds 2 metres waves, most skippers will recommend staying in port. You are not liable for damage beyond the deposit, and the boat is insured for third-party liability. If you have any medical conditions, inform the skipper before departure. Children must wear life jackets at all times on deck, and the skipper will provide appropriate sizes.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to hire a boat in Cannes?

No. All boats on BoatHire24 include a licensed skipper, so you don’t need any boating license or experience. The skipper handles navigation, mooring, and safety.

What is the cheapest boat hire in Cannes?

The cheapest option is a 6-metre RIB from around EUR 450 for a half-day (4 hours). This seats up to 6 people and is ideal for a quick trip to the Lérins Islands.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes. Most boats have a cooler or fridge. You can bring your own supplies. Some operators offer catering for an extra fee, typically EUR 20 to EUR 50 per person.

How many people can fit on a boat?

Capacity varies. A RIB fits 6 to 8 people. Motor yachts and catamarans typically seat 8 to 12. Superyachts can host up to 20 or more. Check the listing for exact numbers.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The skipper will assess conditions. If it’s unsafe to sail, you can reschedule or get a full refund. Most operators allow cancellations up to 48 hours before departure.

Can I book a boat for a special event like a wedding proposal?

Yes. Many operators can arrange decorations, a photographer, or a private chef. Mention your requirements when booking, and they’ll tailor the experience.

Is fuel included in the price?

Yes, for standard cruising distances (usually up to 30 nautical miles per day). Longer trips may incur extra fuel costs. Check the listing or ask the operator.

Boat Hire in Cannes: Yacht & Catamaran Charters with Skipper