Before we delve into the French Riviera marine distances, let’s familiarize ourselves with the French Riviera marine map. This enchanting stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea offers a playground for yacht enthusiasts and travel enthusiasts alike. With its glamorous cities, picturesque landscapes, and azure waters, the French Riviera is a dream destination for any charterer.
French Riviera marine map
Are you planning a day charter in the French Riviera?
Let’s take a closer look at the marine distances between Cannes, Monaco, and St-Tropez.
When it comes to navigating the French Riviera, one of the key advantages is its compact size. Despite the glamorous reputation of its cities, the distance between them is surprisingly short, making it incredibly convenient for charterers.
French Riviera marine distances
Distances are based on the Navionics marine application*. Cruising times are based on a 20 knots cruising speed for a motor yacht.
From Cannes to St-Tropez
Starting from Cannes, a prestigious destination famous for its film festival, it is located approximately 25 nautical miles* to the north-east of St-Tropez (28.7 miles or 46.3 km from port to port).
A leisurely boat trip of about 1 hour and 30 minutes** will take you from one hotspot to the next, allowing you to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenic views of the Esterel hills and rocky coastline along the way.
Tips: drop anchor near Ile d’Or (a private island) to enjoy a glorious swim.
Ile d’Or near St-Raphael – credit Charterminute
From Cannes to Monaco
We continue our journey from Cannes to Monaco, the epitome of opulence and grandeur. The distance between these two destinations is approximately 22 nautical miles* (25 miles or 40 kilometres). The one and a half hour cruise** will reward you with mesmerising views of the Mediterranean (at least after Nice airport…) and the chance to see luxury yachts gliding through the azure waters or anchored in the majestic bay of Vilelfranche sur Mer.
Tips: ask your skipper for a tour of the main port of Monaco (Port Hercule), drop anchor near the small port of St-Jean cap Ferrat near Paloma beach.
The quiet bay of Paloma beach near St-Jean Cap Ferrat – credit: Charterminute
From St-Tropez to Monaco
Boat transfers between the charming fishing village of St-Tropez and the glamourous principality of Monaco offer a splendid maritime experience. This journey, approximately 46 nautical miles (53 miles or 85 km), serves as a gentle reminder of the expansive beauty of the French Riviera. With good weather, the voyage takes a minimum of two hours.
The Lerins islands near Cannes… in September – credit: Charterminute
Up to 200 boats can anchor between the islands during the summer.
Key points along this route:
When choosing a boat transfer or day charter between Cannes and St Tropez or Monaco, there are several important factors to consider.
- Sights to Behold: a must-visit during your boat trip is the Lerins Islands and the Cap d’Antibes, including the famous ‘Bay des Milliardaires’. This area is ideal for snorkeling and is rich in cultural heritage. A stop at St-Honorat Island reveals an active monk community, an old fortress, and a vibrant abbey. Plus, local wines and Lerina liquor make for perfect souvenirs.
- Alternative Option: for those looking for a quicker, albeit less scenic transfer, helicopter flights are an efficient alternative.
How to use Google Maps to measure marine distances
- Open Google Maps on your computer. If you’re using Maps in Lite mode, you’ll see a lightning bolt at the bottom and you won’t be able to measure the distance between points.
- Right-click your starting point.
Select Measure Distance.
Click anywhere on the map to create a path to measure. To add another point, click anywhere on the map.
Optional: drag a point or path to move it, or click a point to remove it.
At the bottom you’ll see the total distance in miles (mi) and kilometres (km). - When finished: Click Close on the map at the bottom.
Tips: knowing the average fuel consumption of your boat (engines, generators…) at cruising speed and the price per litre, you can roughly estimate the cost of your trip. Alternatively, you can also use the Navionics Mobile App. and estimate the distance and cost of your trip by building a route with several waypoints.
French Riviera marine distance: points to consider for a boat trip
- Fuel costs: in France, fuel costs can be high***, making this a significant part of your boat transfer budget. It’s important to calculate your fuel consumption before you leave, taking into account both the distance between your port of departure and destination and the fuel efficiency of your boat.
For a simple transfer from Monaco to St Tropez: taking into account the cost of fuel, it may be cheaper to organise a transfer by helicopter (price form Euro 2,150)****
- Speed limits: there are strict speed limit along the coast between St-Tropez, Cannes and Monaco (between the islands of Lerins, the limit is 5 knots in the canal and 3 knots outside of the canal, bay of Cannes: 10 knots and in the Villefranche inlet: 5 knots).*****
- Weather conditions, comfort at sea: Mediterranean weather can change very rapidly. Check the forecast before you travel and make sure your chosen operator can cope with any weather disruption.
Tips: do you know the cancellation policy in case of high winds or bad weather?
Related articles
- French Riviera yacht charter itinerary: must-see spots & hidden gems
- How much does it cost to charter a yacht ?
- How to maximize your yacht charter experience ?
Disclaimer: the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or correctness. Charterers are advised to conduct their own research and adhere to any local regulations and guidelines.
Sources: * Based on Navionics marine map mobile app. ** Average time at 20 knots cruising speed for a motor boat *** Diesel at euros 2.2 per litre inc. taxes, May 2023 **** Helisecurite.fr, 2023 ***** Préfecture Maritime de la Méditerranée, 2018
