How to Plan a Luxury Yacht Holiday from Monaco: Routes, Costs & Experiences
Introduction
There are luxury holidays, and then there are luxury yacht holidays — the kind where Monaco is your embarkation point and the Mediterranean is your playground. With its unrivalled glamour, deep-water marinas, and proximity to the French and Italian Rivieras, Monaco is the ultimate base for a bespoke yachting getaway.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan your dream yacht holiday from Monaco: suggested itineraries, pricing, onboard experiences, seasonal tips, and how to choose the right yacht.
Why Start Your Yacht Holiday in Monaco?
- World-class facilities at Port Hercule and Port de Fontvieille
- Easy access to Nice airport and helicopter transfers
- Close proximity to Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Corsica, Amalfi Coast
- Access to the best luxury charter yachts and crews
- Unparalleled blend of prestige, scenery, and convenience
Best Itineraries from Monaco
1. 7-Day French Riviera Itinerary
- Day 1: Monaco (embarkation, dinner at Buddha-Bar)
- Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
- Day 3: Cannes & Îles de Lérins (anchor for lunch, jet ski)
- Day 4: Saint-Tropez (shopping, Club 55, L’Opera)
- Day 5: Pampelonne Bay (beach day, water toys)
- Day 6: Antibes (Port Vauban, Picasso Museum)
- Day 7: Return to Monaco
2. 10-Day Monaco to Amalfi Coast Itinerary
- Monaco → Portofino → Cinque Terre → Elba → Capri → Amalfi → Positano
- Includes Michelin-star dining, coastal hikes, and hidden anchorages
Types of Yachts to Charter
- Motor Yachts: Fast, sleek, ideal for glamour and speed
- Sailing Yachts: Romantic and peaceful, often with hybrid tech
- Catamarans: Great for families or laid-back groups
- Superyachts: Full-service, crewed luxury homes on water (30m+)
Choose based on:
- Guest capacity
- Desired cruising speed
- Level of service and space
- Budget and travel goals
What to Expect Onboard
- Private chef (tailored menus, gourmet options)
- Crew including captain, stewardesses, engineer, and deckhands
- Water toys: seabobs, paddleboards, diving gear, jet skis
- Spacious cabins with en-suites
- Lounges, sundecks, Jacuzzis, beach clubs
- Wi-Fi, AV systems, cinema rooms (on superyachts)
Cost of a Yacht Holiday from Monaco
| Yacht Size | Weekly Base Rate | APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-30m | €30,000 – €70,000 | +25-30% |
| 30-50m | €70,000 – €200,000 | +25-30% |
| 50m+ | €200,000 – €1 million+ | +25-30% |
Note: APA covers fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and extras. VAT may apply based on route.
When to Go: Seasonal Tips
- High Season: June to September (warmest, most events, highest prices)
- Shoulder Season: May & October (fewer crowds, better availability)
- Events to Consider:
- Monaco Grand Prix (May)
- Cannes Film Festival (May)
- Monaco Yacht Show (September)
Booking & Planning Tips
- Book Early: Best yachts get booked 6–9 months in advance
- Use a reputable charter broker (e.g., Burgess, Fraser, Northrop & Johnson)
- Be clear on guest preferences (dietary needs, vibe, water toys)
- Clarify the contract type (usually MYBA)
- Get travel insurance and review cancellation terms
What to Pack & Wear
- Daytime: swimwear, resort wear, sunglasses, sandals
- Evening: cocktail attire, linen shirts, light blazers, dresses
- No shoes onboard unless permitted (bring soft-soled options)
- Sun protection, motion sickness remedies, tech accessories
Insider Experiences & Hidden Gems
- Lunch at La Guérite (Iîle Sainte-Marguerite, near Cannes)
- Anchor off Eze-sur-Mer for cliff views and privacy
- Snorkel at Plage de la Paloma (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
- Tender to Club 55 in Pampelonne for a jet-set lunch
- Night at anchor in Calvi, Corsica — stargazing and silence
Conclusion
A luxury yacht holiday from Monaco is more than a vacation — it’s a bespoke journey curated entirely around your preferences. With world-class service, stunning coastal scenery, and a floating palace to call your own, it’s the ultimate way to explore the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re island-hopping off Corsica or sipping rosé in Saint-Tropez, one thing is guaranteed: Monaco is where unforgettable yacht holidays begin.
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