French Riviera Private Boat Itineraries: Nice, Cap-Ferrat, Èze, Monaco, Roquebrune & Menton
Beautiful bays, dramatic headlands and time to swim. Discover the eastern French Riviera with a private captain and an itinerary shaped around you.
Ask Us to Plan Your ItineraryA private boat itinerary that fits your day
For many Beaulieu Boat Charters guests, the coastline between Nice and Menton offers the ideal combination of scenery, swimming, famous destinations and variety. Our home port is Beaulieu-sur-Mer, between Nice and Monaco, and we operate private charters for up to six guests between Menton and Cannes.
The best route depends less on how many famous places you can fit into eight hours than on the kind of day you want. Beautiful bays, historic villas, mountains, small Mediterranean towns, Monaco and beach clubs are all part of the possibilities.
You do not need to stop everywhere. The point of a private charter is that you can choose.
- Nice
- Villefranche-sur-Mer
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
- Beaulieu-sur-Mer
- Èze-sur-Mer
- Cap d’Ail
- Monaco
- Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
- Menton
Why begin in Beaulieu-sur-Mer?
Our home port sits beside Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with Nice and Villefranche to the west and Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton to the east. The interesting part of your day begins almost as soon as you leave the harbor.
From Beaulieu, we can concentrate on the western side toward Villefranche and Nice, head east toward Monaco and Menton, or combine selected highlights in both directions.
This matters on a private motor-yacht charter: distance affects both cruising time and fuel consumption.
10:00 AM — meet your captain
A typical main-season day starts aboard L’Esquinade, our Sunseeker Portofino 35, in the Port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. We will have discussed the broad shape of your day beforehand, but there is no need to plan every minute.
Once everyone is comfortable, we leave the harbor with Cap-Ferrat on one side and the mountains above Beaulieu and Èze on the other.
Why the Nice-to-Menton coastline works so well
Over a relatively short distance, the landscape continually changes: Villefranche’s natural harbor, the green peninsula of Cap-Ferrat, Beaulieu’s bay, the steep coastline below Èze, Monaco’s waterfront and the headland of Cap Martin.
Farther east, Menton’s colorful old town and mountain-framed bay bring another character to the day, with Italy just beyond.
From the boat, you experience the relationship between these places without repeatedly driving, parking and changing locations. The coastline itself becomes part of the experience.
What will you see along the route?
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Cap-Ferrat projects into the Mediterranean between the bays of Villefranche and Beaulieu. Rocky shores, Mediterranean greenery and villas hidden among the trees make the peninsula a highlight from the water.
Depending on your itinerary, cruise along the coast, round part of the peninsula or stop nearby for a swim. Some of the loveliest moments happen between the named destinations.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
The natural harbor curves beneath the old town, with Cap-Ferrat forming one side of the bay. The colorful waterfront and hillside are especially rewarding from the sea.
If you have not seen Villefranche, it can be worth incorporating. If you are already staying in Nice or Villefranche, you may prefer to head east sooner.
The coastline below Èze
Heading east from Beaulieu, the mountains rise steeply above the water. Èze-sur-Mer sits at sea level, with the medieval village of Èze high above.
A boat cannot take you into the hilltop village, but the offshore view reveals its dramatic setting. You cruise beneath the terrain crossed by the Corniche roads above.
Cap d’Ail & Mala Bay
Before Monaco, Cap d’Ail offers rocky coves and villas above the shoreline. Mala is one of the best-known bays here. Whether we swim, stop or cruise past depends on your plans and the conditions.
If everyone is enjoying a beautiful anchorage, there is no need to leave just because another place appears on a list.
Time to swim, snorkel & relax
A good itinerary leaves room to stop. Find an appropriate anchorage, turn off the engines and enjoy the Mediterranean.
- Swim and snorkel from the boat.
- Relax on the bow sunbed.
- Sit in the shade.
- Enjoy complimentary French rosé.
- Listen to music or simply take in the view.
Your skipper chooses swimming stops according to weather, sea conditions and your itinerary. You do not need to choose the exact cove before arriving.
Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin & Menton
Monaco from the Mediterranean
Monaco is one of the route’s standout visual moments. From offshore, the Rock, old town, Port Hercules, Monte-Carlo and the hillside setting become easier to appreciate together.
The seaward view of the Oceanographic Museum is another reason to experience Monaco by boat. Even guests who know Monaco on land can find this perspective very different.
You can cruise the coastline without going ashore. Many guests choose that balance, then continue east. A separate land visit gives you more time to explore Monaco itself.
Why continue beyond Monaco?
The coastline does not end at its most famous name. Beyond Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton offer a different side of the eastern Riviera.
For travelers familiar only with Nice and Monaco, they can be a memorable surprise.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Between Monaco and Menton, the green headland of Cap Martin is backed by hills and the medieval village of Roquebrune. Waterfront villas, beaches and coves make this coastline particularly rewarding from the sea.
The atmosphere changes after Monaco: greenery returns, the coastline feels less urban and the Mediterranean dominates the view again. That contrast is part of what makes the route so satisfying.
Menton — the eastern destination
Rounding Cap Martin brings Menton into view. Warm-colored buildings climb behind the waterfront and old town, with mountains framing the bay. The old port and Sablettes area sit below the historic center.
Italy lies just beyond. Menton’s architecture and atmosphere reflect its position beside the Italian frontier. For guests who have spent time around Nice or Cannes, it can feel like another side of the Riviera.
Can we see the whole Nice-to-Menton coastline in a day?
A full-day charter can take in a great deal of this coastline, including Villefranche and Menton. Seeing places from offshore is different from stopping or going ashore at every destination.
Choose the highlights that matter most, and leave room for swimming, lunch and a comfortable return.
French Riviera private boat itinerary ideas
A popular starting point is Beaulieu, the Èze coastline, Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton, with lunch, swimming and a leisurely return. Cap-Ferrat and other stops can be incorporated according to time, conditions and your preferences.
The classic eastern Riviera day
Possible highlights: Beaulieu, Cap-Ferrat, the Èze coastline, Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton, with swimming and lunch.
See the changing character of the coastline while leaving time to stop and enjoy it.
Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche, Monaco & Cap d’Ail
Possible route: Beaulieu, Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche, Monaco and Cap d’Ail, with a longer swimming stop and relaxed lunch.
This can involve less distance than continuing to Menton, helping reduce fuel consumption.
Monaco, Cap Martin & Menton
Possible route: Beaulieu, Èze, Cap d’Ail, Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton.
A good choice if you already know Nice and Villefranche and want to discover more of the eastern coastline.
Villefranche & Cap-Ferrat
Possible route: Beaulieu, Cap-Ferrat and Villefranche, with swimming, a long lunch and a return around the peninsula.
You do not need to reach Monaco or Menton to have an exceptional day. The coastline close to Beaulieu already offers plenty to enjoy.
Nice, Cap d’Antibes, Cannes & the Lérins Islands
Our operating area extends to Cannes. Western options can include Billionaire’s Bay, Cap d’Antibes and the Lérins Islands.
Greater distances mean more cruising time, fuel and exposure to prevailing conditions. If there is a particular place you want to see, ask us and we will discuss whether it suits your day.
Staying in Cannes or Antibes? Consider starting in Beaulieu.
You do not have to charter the boat closest to your hotel. If your vacation is based farther west, a day from Beaulieu offers a different part of the Côte d’Azur: Cap-Ferrat, Èze, Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton.
Traveling by road to Beaulieu in the morning can make more sense than spending boat time and fuel reaching this coast from farther west. Tell us where you are staying and we can discuss the logistics.
Which places become more special from the sea?
Nice can be explored on foot, Monaco by land and Èze Village by road. A boat reveals how the mountains, capes, bays, villas and towns relate to one another.
Think beyond a list of towns. The coastal landscape around Cap Martin, the cliffs below Èze and Monaco’s seaward skyline are all part of what makes the journey worthwhile.
Cruising, swimming, lunch or relaxation?
Some guests love watching the coastline go past and want to see as much as possible. Others prefer a beautiful anchorage and a long swim. Most want a mixture. Tell us your priorities so we can plan the day around them.
Families & teenagers
Sightseeing happens around you while your group enjoys the boat. Swimming, snorkeling, music and relaxation can be balanced with cruising.
With the boat private for up to six guests, we can adapt the pace to your family.
Lunch your way
We can help arrange lunch at a waterfront restaurant or beach club. We can offer onboard lunch for a maximum of four people, or you are welcome to bring your own lunch.
Discuss arrangements and costs when planning your itinerary.
Weather & comfort
Wind, sea conditions and weather can change the best route or anchorage. Your skipper may suggest a different order of stops or another side of Cap-Ferrat.
Safety and comfort always come first.
How does the itinerary affect fuel cost?
Our main-season full-day charter is €1,950 plus fuel, including the skipper and French VAT, for up to six guests. Typical fuel costs are approximately €300–€800, depending on itinerary and conditions.
A local day around Beaulieu, Cap-Ferrat and Villefranche generally uses less fuel than covering a larger section of coastline. We prefer to discuss your route before estimating the fuel cost.
Read our full French Riviera charter cost guide →Our advice: don’t over-plan it
It is useful to know what is possible, but the best private charters retain room for spontaneity. Perhaps the water is perfect and everyone wants another swim. Perhaps lunch lasts longer, or your group wants less cruising.
A private boat gives you that flexibility. Our job is to know the possibilities. Your job is to enjoy the day.
For some guests, the route leads east toward Èze, Monaco, Roquebrune and Menton. For others, the perfect day barely leaves Cap-Ferrat. A private charter should fit the people aboard it.
French Riviera private boat itinerary FAQs
What is the best private boat itinerary on the French Riviera?
For many of our guests, the Nice-to-Menton coastline offers the best mix of scenery, swimming and variety. Popular days concentrate on Beaulieu, Cap-Ferrat, Èze, Monaco, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton. The right route depends on your group.
Can we travel from Nice to Menton by private boat?
Yes. This coastline can form the basis of a full-day charter. We recommend selecting highlights rather than making every place a compulsory stop. Our normal departure port is Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Can we visit Roquebrune-Cap-Martin by boat?
Yes. It lies immediately east of Monaco and is a highlight of our eastern itinerary.
Is Roquebrune-Cap-Martin worth seeing?
Yes. Its greener headland, beaches, coastal landscape and historic villas provide a striking contrast with Monaco.
Can we reach Menton?
Yes. Menton is within our operating area and is often the eastern destination of our main itinerary.
Can we see Italy?
From Menton, the Italian coastline lies just beyond the French border and can be seen when visibility allows.
Can we see Villefranche and Menton in one day?
Yes. They can be included in a full-day charter along this coastline. We will help balance cruising, swimming and lunch time.
Can we see Monaco without going ashore?
Yes. Many guests enjoy Monaco from the sea and continue along the coast. We generally recommend a separate land visit if you want time to explore Monaco itself.
Can we swim at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin?
Swimming stops depend on sea and weather conditions. The coastline includes options such as the Blue Bay, which your skipper can discuss.
Can we stop for lunch?
Yes. We can help arrange a waterfront restaurant or beach club. We can offer onboard lunch for a maximum of four people, or you can bring your own lunch.
Is Menton more Italian in character?
Menton sits beside the Italian frontier, with strong Italian influences in its historic center and architecture.
Do we have to choose the route before booking?
No. Tell us about your group and vacation, and we can build the itinerary with you.
Where does the charter normally begin?
L’Esquinade is based in the Port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
How many guests can come?
Up to six guests.
How long is the full-day charter?
During the main season, our standard full-day charter runs from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Let us suggest your French Riviera itinerary
You do not need to choose a route from a menu. Tell us:
- Where you are staying.
- Your preferred date and number of guests.
- Whether children or teenagers are joining you.
- Which places you have already visited.
- Where you particularly want to go.
- Whether swimming matters to you.
- What kind of lunch you enjoy.
- Whether you prefer more cruising or more relaxing.
- Whether you are celebrating something special.
We will help recommend a route that fits the people aboard, with time to enjoy the Mediterranean.