The Best Boat Rentals in Nice

Plan on around €200–€350 per day for small motorboats and RIBs in the low season, €300–€600+ in summer. Classic day-cruisers and sailboats typically run €250–€800 per day depending on size and season. Mid‑size yachts for groups usually start around €1,200–€3,000 per day, while larger luxury yachts can be €2,500–€6,000+ for a full day. Listings generally include standard safety gear and basic cleaning; fuel, skipper, catering, and certain port fees are often extra. Many captains quote half‑day options and sunset cruises at lower totals, and some offer “all‑inclusive” rates that bundle skipper and fuel—always check the listing details so there are no surprises.

You’ll find versatile RIBs for quick hops and swim stops, open motorboats and day-cruisers for coastal sightseeing, classic sailboats for relaxed cruising, catamarans with extra deck space for groups, and motor yachts for celebrations. Most options are available with a professional skipper; experienced boaters can also book bareboat where eligible.

In France, you need a boating license to operate a motorboat with more than 6 hp (4.5 kW). The French “Permis Côtier” or a recognized equivalent (such as an ICC) is typically required for bareboat rentals; sailing boats don’t require a license unless you’ll be using an engine above that threshold, but owners may still ask for experience. If you don’t hold a recognized license or prefer to relax, book a captained charter—this is the most common choice for visitors and makes logistics effortless.

The primary pickup is Port Lympia (the Old Port of Nice) in the city center. Many charters also depart from nearby marinas including Port de Saint‑Laurent‑du‑Var by the airport, Beaulieu‑sur‑Mer’s marina just east of Nice, Villefranche‑sur‑Mer’s historic Port de la Darse in the sheltered bay, and Marina Baie des Anges in Villeneuve‑Loubet to the west. Your captain will confirm the exact pier and meeting point once you book.

Even a short cruise shows off the Baie des Anges, the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill, then glides past the pastel waterfront of Villefranche‑sur‑Mer and the villas and lighthouse of Saint‑Jean‑Cap‑Ferrat. Longer outings can reach the turquoise coves at La Mala near Cap‑d’Ail, Monaco’s skyline and harbor, or westward toward Antibes’ ramparts and, on full‑day trips, the Lérins Islands off Cannes for swimming and snorkeling.

To operate a motorboat yourself, French law requires a license when engine power exceeds 6 hp (4.5 kW). Visitors typically present an ICC or a national coastal license recognized by French authorities; owners may also ask for proof of recent experience. No license is needed if you book with a professional skipper, which is the easiest route for most groups. Bring a government ID and your booking confirmation; your captain will handle local port formalities.

Yes—family outings are very common. Boats carry lifejackets for every passenger, with child sizes available on request; many captains recommend that children wear a properly fitted lifejacket while underway. Some high‑speed RIB tours set minimum ages (often around 4–6) for comfort and safety, so share ages and headcounts when you inquire to ensure the right boat and gear are prepared.

Usually yes. Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, a picnic, and drinks; many boats have a cooler or small fridge. Glass is sometimes discouraged, and red wine may be restricted—ask your captain for specifics. If you want to stock up near the dock, the Cours Saleya markets and the cafés around Port Lympia make provisioning easy, and some crews can arrange catering on request.

Small, well‑behaved dogs are accepted on some private charters, but policies vary by boat. If you’re bringing a pet, confirm in advance, bring a towel, water bowl, and a leash, and plan to keep paws on deck to protect cushions. Note that certain beaches and protected coves restrict dogs in peak season.

Summer on the Riviera is typically sunny with light morning winds and livelier afternoon breezes; the warmest sea is July through September. Captains monitor marine forecasts and will adjust the route or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Cancellation terms on the platform are set by each owner; many offer full refunds with several days’ notice, and weather‑related decisions are usually made by the captain for safety. Check the cancellation policy on your listing before you book, and message the owner if you need flexibility.

Absolutely. Most captained boats are set up for celebrations and can suggest routes with swim stops, beach‑club lunches, or sunset views. Share your headcount, preferred date and time, and any extras like a cake, decorations (no confetti), or a playlist. For July–August weekends and big event weeks, secure your date early, and consider morning or weekday departures for the smoothest water and easier dockside logistics.

The core boating season runs May through September, with the warmest water and longest days from late June to early September. Spring and fall bring milder temps, fewer crowds, and great value. Demand spikes around major Riviera events—Cannes Film Festival (May 13–24, 2025), Monaco Grand Prix (May 22–25, 2025), Nice Jazz Fest (July 24–27, 2025), Cannes Yachting Festival (Sept 9–14, 2025), and Monaco Yacht Show (Sept 24–27, 2025)—so book well ahead then. If you’re traveling from the U.S., note that while France doesn’t celebrate Memorial Day (May 26, 2025), July 4th, or Labor Day (Sept 1, 2025), those periods still align with peak travel and higher demand on the coast. For calmer seas and easier parking, choose weekdays and morning departures; afternoons are breezier and busier in high summer.

Yes. A half‑day is perfect for Nice–Villefranche–Cap‑Ferrat, with time to swim. With a fast boat, you can add Monaco and the coves at La Mala in roughly a half‑day to 3/4‑day outing, depending on swim stops. The Lérins Islands off Cannes are best as a full‑day from Nice, giving you time to anchor for lunch and snorkel in the clear water between Sainte‑Marguerite and Saint‑Honorat before cruising back along the coast at golden hour.