Boat Charter in Port Grimaud

General Info
Renown as an artisan’s town, the small but always busy Cogolin lies just south of Grimaud and west of Saint Tropez, on the edge of the Maures Mountains, with an opening to the Gulf of Saint Tropez.

The settlement gets its name from the French word for little hill, “cougoul” and is actually divided into two separate parts, the Lower Village which is located inland and the Marines de Cogolin, 4 km away, right on the water. It is this part that is appealing to people interested in destinations.

Sail into the heart of the French Riviera to the enchanting lagoon town of Port Grimaud. Designed by the visionary architect François Spoerry, this waterside town, with its network of canals, bridges, and colourful houses, offers a unique blend of Provençal charm and Venetian inspiration. Its well-equipped marina, beautiful beaches, and proximity to other famed Riviera destinations make it an ideal starting point for a memorable yachting journey.

As you navigate the turquoise waters, you'll marvel at the town's distinctive architecture, a patchwork of pastel-coloured facades, Roman-tiled roofs, and stone pathways. The town itself offers a variety of boutiques, open-air markets, and seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Don't miss the chance to sample the local Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew, best paired with a crisp local rosé.

Set sail from Port Grimaud and explore the glittering coastline of the French Riviera. Anchor your yacht in the tranquil bays of Saint Tropez, Cannes, or Nice, each with their own unique allure. Whether it's the glitz and glamour of Saint Tropez's nightlife, the cinematic charm of Cannes, or the vibrant art scene of Nice, there's a Riviera destination to suit every sailor's desire.

Travel & Arrival
Air travel to Cogolin is made possible via Saint Tropez’s international airport, La Mole, which is situated just 8 kilometers south-west, a 10 minute drive on the N98 road. There are buses and taxis that make this run, although the taxis are known to be very expensive, outside people like tourists and crews being known targets for French cabbies.
 
Driving to Cogolin is easy if you follow the N98 when coming from Saint Tropez or the D668 road when coming from Grimaud. Since it’s a small, old city care should be taken with local traffic regulations and restrictions.

Avant & Apres Sail
Booking a hotel in Cogolin is actually rather cheap, which is why some parties prefer to stay here and make daily commutes to Saint Tropez. The one thing these hotels have in common is the cozy, familiar atmosphere that should be appealing to many.

The main sightseeing objectives are the 14th century clock tower, the St. Sauveur Church or any of the craft factories which cater to the pretentious Côte d’Azur market, things like reeds for wind instruments, pipes for smoking, knotted wool carpets or wrought-iron furniture, in other words, everything the sailors can't find in a harbor shop. A great view of the whole St. Tropez peninsula can be seen from place Bellevue. There are also museums to be visited, like Musee des Templiers, Musee Raimu (dedicated to the actor with the same name) and the Musee Empreintes Traditions.

But probably the most animated area of the city is the port, where the old architecture is replaced by a more contemporary style. Here you’ll find marinas, shops, restaurants, boutiques that not only cater to the needs of the groups but also provide them with entertainment.

Events & Actions
Apart from the frequent exhibitions of local handicrafts, the city keeps its quiet atmosphere. However, there is plenty for you to do here if you’re into boats. With great marinas, the town can offer a pleasurable experience for anyone sailing in or looking for a experience. Infrastructure and services mirror other locations on the French Riviera.
 

What are some of the must-see attractions in and around Port Grimaud?

Beyond the picturesque canals, the Saint Francis of Assisi Church, known for its striking modern design and panoramic views from the bell tower, is a must-see. Don't forget to explore the wider Riviera, including Saint Tropez, Cannes, and Nice.

What's the sailing climate like?

The Mediterranean climate offers warm summers and mild winters, with the best sailing weather from April to October. Expect regular winds from the east-northeast and less frequent but stronger winds from the west-northwest.

What facilities are available at the marina?

The Marina of Port Grimaud offers a range of amenities including water, electricity, Wi-Fi, shower facilities, and waste disposal. Nearby, you'll find shops, restaurants, and a supermarket.

What local dishes should I try?

Indulge in traditional Provençal cuisine with dishes like Bouillabaisse, a delicious fish stew, and Ratatouille, a vegetable medley. Pair your meal with a glass of local rosé.

What marine life can I expect to see?

While sailing, you might spot dolphins and, closer to the coast, a variety of seabirds. The Mediterranean is also home to colourful fish species, making snorkeling and diving popular activities.

Are there any notable natural sights to explore?

Nearby, the Massif des Maures offers beautiful hiking trails through oak and chestnut forests. For a beach day, Plage de Pampelonne is a stunning sandy stretch near Saint Tropez.

What watersports are popular?

Port Grimaud's location offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Stand-up paddleboarding and jet skiing are also popular activities.

Any recommended cultural experiences?

Explore the art scene in Nice with its numerous galleries and museums. Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting, or learn about the perfume industry in the town of Grasse.

Navigating the French Riviera's stunning coastline from the unique setting of Port Grimaud offers an unparalleled sailing experience. Embark on a journey where Provençal culture meets Venetian charm, and where every day brings a new discovery. From its colourful canals to the wider azure expanse of the Mediterranean, Port Grimaud is a destination that caters to the desires of every yacht charter client. So, hoist your sails and let the adventure begin.