The French Riviera is a paradise of wonders for yachtsmen from all over the world. The beauty of its coastal landscapes, its mythical islands and its coastal waters make it one of the most visited destinations in the world.
Its many anchorages offer a variety of experiences, from secluded bays to glamorous harbours. Here’s a round-up of the most beautiful anchorages in this iconic region.
St tropez
Baie des Canebiers
Baie des Canebiers is one of the most charming anchorages in the Saint-Tropez region. Offering a peaceful and picturesque setting, this bay is ideal for yachtsmen looking for a quiet getaway yet close to the hustle and bustle of Saint-Tropez.
The most popular anchorage in the cove is at the end of the bay at 135° from the sailing school.
Coordinates: 43° 16.17′ N, 6° 39.87′ E
Access
Easily accessible by sea, the bay is protected from the prevailing winds, providing a safe and pleasant anchorage. There are several pontoons nearby for landing dinghies.
Activities
Swimming, snorkelling and water sports: paddling, kayaking and other water sports are popular in this tranquil bay.
Tips
Arrive early in high season to guarantee a good berth.
Cannes
Iles de lérins
Located off the coast of Cannes, the Îles de Lérins, consisting mainly of the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, are a true paradise for yachtsmen. These islands offer idyllic anchorages, combining natural beauty, tranquillity and a rich history.
Coordinates: 43° 30.75′ N, 7° 2.80′ E
Access
Easily accessible by sea, the bay is protected from the prevailing winds, providing a safe and pleasant anchorage. Anchoring is prohibited in front of the abbey (area marked by yellow buoys). The channel separating the islands of Sainte Marguerite and Saint Honorat is very busy in summer.
Activities
Swimming, snorkelling and water sports: paddling, kayaking and other water sports are popular in this tranquil bay. From April to October, the restaurant "La Guérite" welcomes you to the island of Sainte Marguerite. V
Tips
Arrive early in high season to guarantee a good berth.
Cassis
Calanque de port Miou
The calanque of Port-Miou (best port in Provençal) is a natural shelter for ships. The site is magnificent, like a ‘Provençal fjord’ with several freshwater springs plunging into turquoise water, all surrounded by a magnificent pine forest. This former limestone quarry was mined from 1901 to 1982 and is separated from the Cassis harbour by the Presqu’île.
Coordinates: 43° 12.33′ N, 5° 30.93′ E
Access
Prohibited for units over 12 metres.
Activities
Hiking, diving and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Tips
Respect the fragile environment and local regulations to preserve this unique site.
Lien ZMEL de bagaud: https://www.portcros-parcnational.fr/fr/des-decouvertes/sejourner/la-zmel-de-bagaud
Port Cros
La pointe du sud
A natural treasure trove steeped in history and home to an underwater world of exceptional beauty. Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean, this unique island offers sailors an immersive experience in a preserved environment rich in biodiversity.
The major attraction of Port Cros lies in its exceptional underwater world. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover an aquatic world of unrivalled beauty. Colourful corals, tropical fish and historic shipwrecks tell the story of the island’s rich history and offer an unforgettable diving experience.
Coordinates: 42° 59.85′ N, 6° 22.28′ E
Access
The 176 ha ZMEL is a protected area. The Port-Cros National Park provides 68 mooring buoys with ecological anchors.
Activities
Snorkelling, scuba diving and exploring nature trails.
Tips
Reservations by e-mail: capitainerie@portcros-parcnational.fr - by telephone, on 04.94.01.40.72 (or +334.94.01.40.72 from abroad)
Porquerolles
Baie du Langoustier
one of the most enchanting anchorages on Porquerolles and the Hyères islands. Its charm lies in its wild character and its two distinct beaches: to the north, a white sandy beach with a view of the mainland.
To the south, a black beach where slag was dumped during the construction of the Grand Langoustier fort, a former 17th-century military stronghold listed as a historic monument.
As well as its visual appeal, this bay is renowned as a diving site, particularly the sec de la Jaume Garde, where a wreck and a variety of fauna can be admired.
Coordinates: 42° 59.85′ N, 6° 22.28′ E
Access
The bay is easily accessible by boat from the mainland and the other islands of Hyères. The entrance to the bay is wide with no major obstacles.
Activities
Swimming and snorkelling, The clear waters of the bay are perfect for swimming and underwater exploration. The marine biodiversity is rich, with plenty of fish and other sea creatures to spot.
Tips
Langoustier Bay offers a peaceful, sheltered anchorage, except for westerly winds.
Marseille
Calanques de Sormiou
The Calanque de Sormiou is the widest of Marseille’s calanques and is renowned for its rugged beauty. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, it offers protected anchorages and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and diving.
Coordinates: 43° 12.52′ N, 5° 25.50′ E
Access
It's a twenty-minute boat ride from the Port de la Pointe Rouge.
Activities
The calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with exceptional visibility. The seabed is rich in biodiversity, perfect for diving enthusiasts.
Tips
Make sure you arrive early to find a good anchorage, especially in high season. The calanques can be very busy in summer.
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