Marinas in France

Yachting Destinations Along the French Riviera and Mediterranean Coast

France is home to some of the most prestigious and iconic marinas in the Mediterranean. Stretching from the Italian border along the glamorous Côte d’Azur to the wide sandy shores of the Gulf of Lion, the French Mediterranean coastline offers a unique blend of luxury yachting, historic harbours, and modern marina infrastructure.

From the legendary ports of Monaco and Saint-Tropez to the large yacht harbours of Antibes and Marseille, France provides world-class facilities, elegant coastal towns, and excellent cruising conditions. Whether you are seeking a luxury superyacht destination, a lively resort marina, or a historic port with character, French marinas offer a distinctive and refined yachting experience.

Why Choose a Marina in France

France has long been one of the most prestigious yachting destinations in the world. The French Riviera, in particular, is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and international maritime culture.

Key advantages of French marinas:

• World-class marina infrastructure

• Prestigious yachting destinations

• Excellent technical and refit facilities

• Central location in the western Mediterranean

• Short cruising distances between ports

• Rich cultural, culinary, and social scene

The region is especially popular with motor yachts, superyachts, and high-end charter guests, although it also offers excellent options for sailing yachts and smaller vessels.

Main Yachting Regions in France

The French Mediterranean coast is divided into several distinct cruising areas, each with its own character and marina landscape.

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur)

The French Riviera is one of the most famous yachting regions in the world. Stretching from the Italian border to Saint-Tropez, this coastline is known for luxury marinas, elegant seaside towns, and vibrant summer events.

Characteristics of the French Riviera:

• Prestigious marinas and yacht clubs

• Luxury resorts and waterfront promenades

• Short distances between major ports

• Scenic coastal cruising routes

• Strong charter and superyacht presence

Major marinas in the French Riviera:

• Monaco – one of the world’s most prestigious yacht harbours

• Port Vauban (Antibes) – one of Europe’s largest marinas

• Cannes – elegant marinas in the heart of the city

• Nice – urban marina with international airport access

• Saint-Tropez – iconic harbour with historic charm

The French Riviera is especially attractive for those seeking a lively social atmosphere, high-end services, and easy access to luxury destinations.

Featured marina:
Monaco Marina

Antibes and the Yachting Hub of the Riviera

Antibes is one of the most important yachting centers in Europe. Its famous Port Vauban is a key base for large yachts and professional crews.

Highlights of Antibes:

• One of Europe’s largest marinas

• Dedicated superyacht berths

• Extensive refit and maintenance services

• Strong international yachting community

• Historic old town and seaside setting

Antibes is a major hub for the global yachting industry and a popular winter base for large yachts.

Cannes and the Central Riviera

Cannes is known worldwide for its film festival, but it is also an important yachting destination with several marinas and a lively waterfront.

Features of the Cannes area:

• Elegant marinas in the city center

• Access to luxury hotels and restaurants

• Close proximity to the Lérins Islands

• Strong charter and event scene

Key marinas:

• Vieux Port de Cannes

• Port Pierre Canto

The nearby Lérins Islands offer quiet anchorages just a short cruise from the city.

Saint-Tropez and the Var Coast

Saint-Tropez is one of the most legendary yachting destinations in the Mediterranean. Once a small fishing village, it has become a symbol of Riviera glamour and maritime lifestyle.

Characteristics of the Saint-Tropez region:

• Iconic harbour with historic charm

• Luxury yachts and lively summer atmosphere

• Beach clubs and waterfront dining

• Scenic coastal cruising routes

Nearby marinas:

• Port de Saint-Tropez

• Port Grimaud – a canal-style residential marina

• Sainte-Maxime Marina

Port Grimaud, often called the “Venice of Provence,” offers a unique residential marina concept similar to canal marinas in other parts of Europe.

The Gulf of Lion – Western Mediterranean France

West of Marseille, the French coastline becomes wider and less mountainous. This area, known as the Gulf of Lion, features long sandy beaches, modern marinas, and relaxed coastal towns.

Key characteristics:

• Wide sandy shores

• Modern marina developments

• Less crowded than the Riviera

• Good value berthing options

Important marinas in the region:

• Marseille – historic port and large marina

• Port-Camargue – one of Europe’s largest marinas

• La Grande-Motte – modern resort marina

• Sète – traditional harbour town

This region is attractive for long-term berths, sailing yachts, and skippers seeking a quieter alternative to the French Riviera.

Featured Marinas in France

Here are some of the most notable marinas in the Maremedium network along the French Mediterranean coast.

Monaco – French Riviera

Monaco’s Port Hercules is one of the most prestigious marinas in the world. Surrounded by luxury hotels, casinos, and fine dining, it is a symbol of Mediterranean yachting glamour.

View marina overview:
Monaco Marina

Antibes – Port Vauban

Port Vauban in Antibes is one of the largest marinas in Europe and a key hub for superyachts. It offers extensive technical services, large berths, and a strong international yachting community.

Saint-Tropez – Iconic Riviera Harbour

The harbour of Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous yachting destinations in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic charm, and luxury lifestyle.

Types of Marinas in France

France offers a wide variety of marina concepts, from historic harbours to modern superyacht ports.

Luxury Superyacht Marinas

These marinas are designed for large yachts and high-end clientele, offering premium facilities and exclusive surroundings.

Examples:

• Monaco

• Antibes (Port Vauban)

• Cannes

Urban Marinas

Located in major coastal cities, these marinas provide easy access to cultural attractions, airports, and urban amenities.

Examples:

• Nice

• Marseille

• Cannes

Residential and Canal Marinas

Some French marinas are built around canal systems, offering private berths in front of waterfront properties.

Example:

• Port Grimaud

Resort Marinas

These marinas are located in holiday destinations and cater to seasonal visitors and charter guests.

Examples:

• Saint-Tropez

• La Grande-Motte

• Sainte-Maxime

Seasonal Cruising in France

France offers excellent cruising conditions throughout much of the year, although the peak season is concentrated in the summer months.

Spring (April–June)

• Pleasant temperatures

• Ideal for coastal cruising

• Fewer crowds than in summer

Summer (July–August)

• Peak season on the French Riviera

• Busy marinas and anchorages

• Major events and regattas

• Warm sea temperatures

Autumn (September–October)

• Warm water and milder temperatures

• Quieter harbours

• Excellent cruising conditions

Winter (November–March)

• Reduced activity in resort marinas

• Active superyacht bases in major ports

• Suitable for long-term berthing in larger marinas

Choosing the Right Marina in France

When selecting a marina in France, it is important to consider both practical and lifestyle factors.

Key decision criteria:

• Berth size and availability

• Level of luxury and services

• Proximity to airports and cities

• Technical and refit facilities

• Seasonal demand and pricing

• Cruising routes along the Riviera or western coast

Some marinas are ideal for high-end social life and short stays, while others are better suited for long-term berthing or maintenance periods.

Explore French Marinas with Maremedium

Maremedium connects some of the most attractive marinas along the French Mediterranean coast into a curated network. Each destination is presented with an overview on Maremedium, while detailed local information is available on dedicated marina websites.

This structure allows you to:

• Discover marinas by region

• Compare destinations along the French coast

• Explore detailed marina guides

• Plan cruising routes between France, Spain, and Italy

From the glamorous ports of Monaco and Cannes to the spacious marinas of the Gulf of Lion, France offers some of the most prestigious and diverse yachting destinations in the Mediterranean.