
Destination
St. Tropez Yacht Charter
Riviera chic on the water.
St. Tropez: The Ultimate Playground of the Rich and Famous
St. Tropez is the French Riviera’s most recognisable name in luxury living and an unmissable stop on a French Riviera yacht charter. Once a quiet fishing village on the Mediterranean coastline, this pastel-painted port town evolved into a symbol of West Mediterranean glamour during the 1960s, drawing in artists, film stars, and international jet-setters. A St. Tropez yacht charter offers front-row access to the very essence of Côte d’Azur style. From exclusive beach clubs and cliffside villas to bustling marinas that host superyachts up to 100 metres, it’s a yacht charter destination that seamlessly blends laid-back coastal charm with luxury yacht charter indulgence.
The Old Town of St. Tropez, known locally as La Ponche, is a delightful labyrinth of cobbled alleys and pastel façades. These narrow streets are home to inviting cafés that serve buttery croissants and café au lait, all while tucked beside intimate art galleries and family-run delis. The scent of lavender often drifts through the air, especially during market days at Place des Lices, which transform twice a week into a colourful scene of seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, Provencal linens, and handmade soaps. Exploring on foot is part of the charm, as every turn reveals a new vista or small boutique tucked into centuries-old architecture. Yacht charter guests often enjoy a morning ashore here before setting off to explore the rest of the coast.
If shopping is part of your ideal yacht vacation, Rue Gambetta delivers with a carefully curated selection of high-end boutiques including Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton, all nestled within traditional French buildings that retain their original charm. It’s a unique blend of designer luxury and Mediterranean authenticity that is hard to replicate. For those seeking antiques, local craft, or vintage fashion, the town’s independent shops offer treasures at every turn. The ability to dock nearby means every part of this experience is within easy reach for guests on a St. Tropez yacht charter.
Along the coastline, Pampelonne Beach stands out as the ultimate destination for both relaxation and Riviera social life. Spanning five kilometres of soft white sand and turquoise water, it is home to internationally known names like Club 55, Nikki Beach, and Tiki Beach. These beach clubs offer a perfect place to sip chilled rosé, enjoy freshly grilled seafood, and watch the day drift by under parasols. Yacht charter guests often arrive by tender for a long lunch or sunset drinks, with many choosing to stay for evening beach parties or to continue the night back on board their yacht.
For a more tranquil escape, nearby beaches such as Plage de la Ponche or La Glaye offer peaceful swimming spots close to the town centre. Their shallow, crystalline waters make them ideal for paddleboarding or a quiet morning dip. Yacht charter itineraries often include cruising south toward Cap Camarat and Cap Taillat, where secluded anchorages offer a break from the buzz. These areas are also perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on deck with views of the pine-covered cliffs.
St. Tropez truly comes alive during its iconic event season. Regattas like Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez and the Giraglia Rolex Cup transform the harbour into a spectacle of colour and elegance, attracting some of the world’s most impressive sailing yachts. These events are highlights of the West Mediterranean yachting calendar, drawing thousands of visitors and offering front-row experiences for yacht charter guests docked in the heart of the port. Streets overflow with music, dockside celebrations, and spontaneous gatherings as the town buzzes with energy.
On land, the village’s cultural calendar is just as rich. Les Bravades, a traditional festival honouring St. Tropez’s patron saint, brings parades, music, and pageantry, while the International Polo Cup offers something for sport enthusiasts. Summer evenings often feature open-air art shows and live music that add to the region’s creative flair. Even outside these event weeks, the nightlife in St. Tropez is far from sleepy. Start your night with a cocktail at Le Bar du Port or sip a negroni with a view over the superyacht marina. If you’re looking to stay out late, Les Caves du Roy inside Hôtel Byblos remains one of the most iconic nightclubs on the Riviera.
Beyond the glamour, there’s a softer rhythm to discover. Just outside town, the hills of the Provence region are lined with vineyards, many of which produce the delicate rosé that has become synonymous with a yacht vacation in southern France. Estates like Château Minuty and Château Barbeyrolles offer wine tasting experiences that pair fine wine with sweeping views over olive groves and lavender fields. These excursions are easy to include in a personalised yacht charter itinerary, especially for guests seeking both indulgence and authenticity.
Those craving fresh air and natural beauty can take a tender ashore near Cap Camarat for a coastal walk, where the scenery is particularly captivating at sunrise or sunset. Alternatively, set course for the Îles d’Hyères, a trio of islands to the west known for their calm anchorages and protected marine reserves. The clear waters are ideal for diving and paddleboarding, and the islands offer a contrast to the busier scenes around the mainland coast. For yacht charter guests seeking balance between vibrant town life and peaceful retreat, these destinations are a perfect complement to a French Riviera yacht charter.
St. Tropez remains a magnet for those who love style, sunshine, and sailing. Whether you arrive for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer yacht charter itinerary through the French Riviera and West Mediterranean, the town offers something unforgettable at every turn. The beauty of exploring by yacht lies in the freedom to enjoy both the high-profile attractions and the hidden corners — a quiet cove, a private dinner on deck, or a morning swim with no one else in sight.
Whatever your pace, St. Tropez moves with you. From high-end shopping and beachside glamour to village squares and scenic trails, it’s a yachting destination that continues to evolve while holding fast to the things that make it iconic. A St. Tropez yacht charter is not just a trip — it’s a complete experience of the French Riviera lifestyle. Browse our full selection of luxury yacht charters in St. Tropez and begin your next unforgettable journey along the Mediterranean.
When?
The best time to visit St. Tropez on a yacht is June to August, when the beach clubs, warm weather, and buzzing social scene are at their peak. For a quieter pace with sunny days and fewer crowds, late May or early September is perfect. September also marks the highlight of the yachting calendar with Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.
Why?
Highlights
Other popular stops in the area
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Yacht Charter Exclusive's curated itineraries offer the perfect starting point for crafting your dream yacht charter in the West Mediterranean.