Are you feeling the call of the open sea? Here’s our advice for yacht charter in Sainte-Maxime!
Situated in the mythical Gulf of Saint-Tropez, just across from the famous port, Sainte-Maxime is one of the best-known towns on the Côte d’Azur. A trip there is guaranteed to make for a sunny summer, and perhaps even an opportunity to feel like a celebrity. One thing’s for sure: the region’s fame is due in no small part to its idyllic setting and picture-postcard landscapes. So why not make the most of it by hiring a boat and admiring the coast from the water? Especially as some hidden coves are only accessible by sea. We tell you everything you need to know about renting a boat in Sainte-Maxime.
What type of boat to rent in Sainte-Maxime?
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Sainte-Maxime is a popular seaside resort. Its public marina has 400 berths right next to the town center. There’s also a private marina with several hundred berths.
This location and these facilities allow all types of boat rental in Sainte-Maxime. In the motorboat category, you have access to zodiacs and rigid boats of all sizes. You can also rent boats without a license. On the other hand, if you want to rent a yacht, you’ll have to go to Saint-Tropez. As for sailboats, there’s also a wide choice of traditional monohulls. But for trimarans, you’ll have to head for Cogolin or Saint-Tropez.
How much does a boat rental in Sainte-Maxime cost?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Andreas Jung
Most of the boats mentioned above can be rented with an optional skipper service, but this is especially true for sailboats. The advantage of hiring the services of an experienced pilot who knows the area is that you get 100% out of the trip.
Boat rental with skipper on board
For a medium-sized motorboat, you should expect to pay at least €400 a day for a private rental. For a professional charterer, you’re looking at between €450 and €500. Most motorboats don’t come with an optional skipper service, but some listings include a skipper as an option.
The same applies to sailboats: depending on the advertisement, a guide may be required, especially when renting from a private individual or with a specific model of boat. On average, you should expect to pay a minimum of €400 per day for entry-level boats, but you should be aware that €1,000 is quickly reached in high season.
Boat rental without skipper
For a medium-sized motorboat, the minimum price is €300 per day with a private owner. For a professional charterer, you’re looking at between €450 and €500.
For sailboats, you can find private rentals for around €200. Professional charter companies offer an average of €300.
Please note that when you rent a motorboat, fuel is not included in the price.
Rent a boat to explore Sainte-Maxime
How can I rent a boat in Sainte-Maxime?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Juergen Wackenhut
Thanks to the importance of its marinas, many companies offer boat rentals in Sainte-Maxime. You’ll find their offices right on the docks or nearby. You can also book in advance online with sites like Click&Boat. The advantage is that you can quickly see what’s available for your dates. On this platform, you can also find rental ads between private individuals, which can be more attractive financially. It’s worth noting that for sailboats, many rentals are by the week rather than by the day.
As mentioned above, you can usually opt to have a skipper on board. This option is particularly recommended if you are not an experienced pilot and are unfamiliar with the area. If, on the other hand, you are renting from a private individual, this option may not be available or may be compulsory.
Depending on the rental, you may have included or optional water sports equipment such as wakeboards, water skis or seabobs.
Do I need a permit to sail in Sainte-Maxime?
If you plan to sail alone, you have two options. You can either rent a boat without a license, but be aware that the engine power may not exceed 6 HP. Or you have a coastal navigation license, in which case you can rent whatever you like. But if you’re unfamiliar with the region, once again, the skippered rental option is a good one.
Our boating tips for Sainte-Maxime
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Andreas Jung
The port of Sainte-Maxime is located directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The vast majority of berths are reserved for residents, and there are only 51 pontoon berths for visitors. Boats must be no more than 28 meters long and 6.60 meters wide. The maximum draught must be 3 meters. You must pass through the harbor master’s office before setting up.
The wind tends to pick up in the afternoon over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Beware of easterly gales, which form a breaking swell. In the event of a westerly wind, it is strongly recommended not to head in this direction, as the sea can be very rough after Cap Camarat. Make sure your boat is equipped with all safety equipment and carry all emergency numbers.
Rent a boat to explore Sainte-Maxime
When is the best time to sail in Sainte-Maxime?
On the whole, thanks to the Mediterranean climate, it’s possible to sail in the Gulf all year round. Spring is ideal, as the fine weather arrives without too many tourists. But it’s during the summer months that you can most enjoy swimming and water sports.
Ideas for boat trips from Sainte-Maxime
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Now that you have your boat rental in Sainte-Maxime, here are the different places you can explore:
- The Gulf of Saint-Tropez: Port-Grimaud, Pampelonne, the wild creeks at the foot of the Maures massif.
- The Lérins Islands to the east: Sainte-Marguerite and Sainte-Honorat lie just opposite Cannes, two nuggets not to be missed.
- The Golden Isles to the west: these are certainly the most famous and beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.
Rent a boat to explore Sainte-Maxime