Explore the Riviera · Les Fosses, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Les Fosses by Private Boat:
Discover Cap Ferrat Above and Below the Surface

Rocky coastal scenery, an old quarry and a seabed worth exploring. Make Les Fosses part of a private boat day with time for swimming and snorkeling where conditions allow.

Private Sunseeker Portofino 35 Up to six guests Depart Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice
Les Fosses Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Coastal character Rocks, villas and the old quarry
Look below An area known for snorkeling
A different side of the peninsula

A stop for guests who want to look a little closer

At Les Fosses, the interest does not end at the waterline. The coastline has a rugged texture, while the seabed gives swimmers another reason to pause.

This southern-side bay offers a different perspective on Cap Ferrat. Villas sit above the shore, vegetation breaks up the rock and the old quarry adds character to the landscape.

For guests who enjoy putting on a mask and looking beneath the surface, Les Fosses is one of the areas we would consider when planning a swimming-focused charter.

A shoreline with texture and history

Les Fosses, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The beach lies on the southern side of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with surrounding villas and the remains of a former quarry. It is a setting that rewards looking beyond the beach itself.

From the boat, you can appreciate how the rocky shoreline and planted hillside fit together. There is a slightly wilder feel than in some of the peninsula’s more polished waterfront scenes.

A pause here can be about the simple pleasure of exploring: enjoying the coast above water, then discovering what you can see below it.

Above the water

A rocky Riviera setting

Take in the shoreline, surrounding villas and old quarry. The landscape gives the stop a character of its own.

Below the surface

A reason to bring a mask

The area is known for its snorkeling appeal. When conditions are suitable, take time to observe the underwater landscape.

At your own pace

Explore or simply relax

Some guests want a closer look underwater. Others prefer a swim or time aboard enjoying the view and company.

At Les Fosses, there is as much reason to look down into the water as back toward the shore.

Make time to explore

Snorkeling around Les Fosses

The local tourism office highlights the richness of the seabed and recommends Les Fosses for snorkeling. That makes it an appealing area for guests interested in more than a quick dip.

Tell us if snorkeling is a priority. Your skipper can consider the conditions, available visibility and a suitable permitted stopping place when planning the day.

Snorkeling equipment is aboard L’Esquinade. Bring your curiosity, take your time and enjoy whatever the conditions reveal. Water clarity and wildlife sightings naturally vary.

This is part of a private boat charter, rather than a guided snorkeling tour. Discuss your swimming confidence and any requirements with us beforehand.

Enjoy the seabed without disturbing it

Observe marine life and leave it where you find it. Avoid touching or standing on the seabed, and keep clear of seagrass.

Your skipper will explain the swimming arrangements. Stay within the agreed area and follow the instructions for returning to the boat.

The stopping position depends on wind, swell, traffic, local restrictions and the protected seabed. No exact anchorage or snorkeling spot is guaranteed in advance.

A working past beneath the Riviera villas

The old quarry and municipal washhouse

Les Fosses has reminders of a more practical coastal past. The former quarry is part of the shoreline setting, and the beach is also associated with the old municipal washhouse, which is now closed.

These details give the area a different story from the grand villas alone. The peninsula was a place of everyday work and community life as well as an elegant Riviera destination.

Enjoying the setting from the boat does not require a visit ashore. The history adds context to the coast you are exploring.

Two neighboring names

Les Fosses and Les Fossettes are different beaches

The similar names can be confusing. Les Fosses and nearby Les Fossettes are separate coastal locations. This page describes Les Fosses.

If you have seen a particular photograph, beach or underwater activity you would like to ask about, send us the details. We can help identify the right place when planning your charter.

Less rushing. More time in the water.

Build Les Fosses into your Cap Ferrat boat day

If swimming and snorkeling matter most, a day focused on Cap Ferrat can leave more time for both. You do not need to travel to the farthest point of the coastline to enjoy a memorable charter.

  1. Begin in Beaulieu-sur-Mer

    Meet your skipper and discuss the day’s conditions. Explain whether snorkeling, swimming or coastal sightseeing is your main priority.

  2. Explore the peninsula

    Follow the agreed route around the Cap Ferrat coastline, enjoying the changing views as you approach the Les Fosses area.

  3. Pause at a suitable permitted location

    Where conditions allow, take time for swimming and a look beneath the surface. Your skipper selects the appropriate stopping position.

  4. Leave room for the rest of the day

    Continue to another agreed stop, make time for lunch or enjoy a relaxed return. The plan should leave space to appreciate each part rather than rushing between them.

Let conditions choose the best snorkeling stop

Les Fosses may be on your wish list, but flexibility helps. If another suitable permitted location offers better conditions, your skipper can recommend it while keeping your interests at the center of the day.

Your boat for the day

Explore aboard L’Esquinade

Our Sunseeker Portofino 35 accommodates up to six charter guests, with an English-speaking skipper. The boat is reserved for your own group.

Plan a couple’s day, a family outing or time with friends, with a route shaped around the experience you want.

  • Departure from Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice.
  • Personal itinerary planning.
  • Snorkeling equipment and floats aboard.
  • Complimentary water, French rosé and towels.
  • Dining space, refrigeration and kitchenette facilities.
Tell us before you travel

Who wants to swim and snorkel?

Let us know your group’s swimming confidence, whether children are joining and how much time you would like in the water.

These details help us discuss a sensible itinerary. Confirm the route, fuel estimate and requested extras before booking.

Discuss Your Swimming Plans
Quick answers

Visiting Les Fosses by private boat

Where is Les Fosses?

Les Fosses is on the southern side of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with surrounding villas and the remains of an old quarry.

Does the charter depart from Les Fosses?

No. The charter described here departs from Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Nice. Les Fosses is an area to consider within your itinerary.

Is Les Fosses a good area for snorkeling?

The local tourism office highlights the rich seabed and recommends the area for snorkeling. Actual suitability depends on conditions, visibility and the permitted stopping position.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment, floats and towels are aboard L’Esquinade. Discuss any specific requirements before the charter.

Is this a guided snorkeling excursion?

No. This is a private skippered boat charter with opportunities to swim and snorkel where appropriate. A dedicated in-water snorkeling guide is not included.

Will the water be clear?

Visibility varies with conditions. We cannot promise a particular level of water clarity or specific wildlife sightings.

Are Les Fosses and Les Fossettes the same place?

No. They are separate neighboring beaches. Tell us which location you are interested in when planning your charter.

Can children snorkel during the charter?

Suitability depends on their ages, swimming ability and the conditions. Discuss this with us beforehand. Parents remain responsible for supervising their children.

Can we stay aboard instead of swimming?

Yes. Guests can enjoy the pause aboard while others swim, following the arrangements explained by the skipper.

What if Les Fosses is not suitable on the day?

Your skipper can suggest another appropriate permitted location based on conditions and your group’s priorities.

There is more to the Riviera than the view

Make time to explore beneath the surface

Tell us your dates, number of guests and how much swimming and snorkeling you would enjoy. We will help plan your private boat day from Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

WHERE TO FIND US

WE ARE BASED IN THE PORT OF BEAULIEU-SUR-MER. WE RUN FULL DAY CHARTERS FOR UP TO SIX GUESTS FROM MENTON TO CANNES AND PICK UP FROM MOST PORTS WITHIN THESE DESTINATIONS