Planning a great boat rental on the French Riviera?
For those new to boating or seeking some helpful guidance, a variety of digital tools are available to assist you. These tools can help with everything from planning your day charter and selecting the right boat, to navigating the waters and monitoring real-time weather conditions.
For the best charter experience, remember that good planning and preparation are key. Don’t just show up and expect quality!
1. Beach club experience
Plage Privé is a website – and mobile app- that provides access to resources for all of the beach clubs in the French Riviera. Included are extensive profiles, photos, event calendars, and client reviews, which will make planning your excursions ashore a whole lot easier.
2. Weather forecast
Wheater Pro is an app offering 2-3 day reliable weather forecasts for the French Riviera. It is important to have adequate planning since key areas from Cannes to St. Tropez can experience windy conditions that will affect tender services to beach clubs on Pampelonne.
3. Wind forecast
Windy (Mobile App): This application provides tutorials and accurate, detailed weather forecasts about wind, waves, and currents. This is a must-have app before getting on board to check the conditions before you paddle out and while you charter.
4. Jellyfish…
Meduse: If you’re swimming, it’s a good idea to check for jellyfish in the waters first. This app has an interactive map that locates jellyfish sightings in the French Riviera waters, so you make sure that you are safe before you or your guests swim.
5. Charterminute blog
Search for useful information on our blog for charter planning assistance.
- Use our fuel calculator to get an idea of fuel costs,
- find the answers to some frequently asked questions,
- how to avoid boat rental scams,
- find you with the best luxury day boat charter deals.
6. Find an anchorage with Navily
This app acts as a community tool to help you find and reserve anchorages and where to stay in marinas.
It is useful for a day charter that visits different coves, and includes information and photos of each anchorage that is uploaded by other users of the app, which will help you plan an itinerary.
7. French PWC regulation
This government web page information outlines the regulations for personal watercraft (e.g. jet skis or water scooters). It would be good to read rules so that everyone knows what is okay, what is not okay, and to keep yourself safe.
8. French Riviera pass
This isn’t a boating-specific app, but it can be useful for clients who are combining their boat day with other activities. It provides information on attractions, activities, and services across the Côte d’Azur, which can help in planning a day that includes stops on land, such as a visit to a coastal town or a museum.
9. Trustpilot
Trustpilot isn’t a boat charter specific website but it offers a platform where clients can post reviews about their experiences with boat rental companies.
Unlike some prominent boat rental websites that heavily invest in online marketing, Trustpilot – and Tripadvisor – make it significantly more challenging for boat rental companies to conceal negative feedback.
Discover what our clients have to say about their charters with Charterminute on TripAdvisor.
10. Societe.com
A yacht charter is a significant investment. For your security, it’s a good idea to check Societe.com to verify that your chosen boat rental company is not facing bankruptcy.
A history of frequent location changes can also be a red flag, as this may indicate instability or other underlying issues.
A quick Google search for the charter broker’s name will provide interesting information.
Ready for your next yacht charter experience?
Contact Charterminute: for personalized guidance and to explore our luxury charter services, reach out to us. Your next bespoke luxury charter along the French Riviera awaits.
Additional resources
- French Riviera coastal regulation (video)
- Why you should think twice before booking a boat rental with the hotel concierge
- French Riviera boat rentals: avoiding hidden costs and scams