Exclusive excursion on a Riva Yacht

A Luxurious Cruise Along the French Riviera: Our Take on the Riva Yacht Experience

Imagine gliding along the sparkling waters of the French Riviera on a sleek Riva yacht, with the sun warming your skin and panoramic views unfolding around you. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a truly memorable journey through some of the most stunning coastal spots in the region. This private excursion promises a blend of elegance, personalized attention, and incredible scenery—perfect for those seeking a relaxed, upscale day at sea.

What immediately catches our eye are the tailored experience for small groups of 2-6 persons, the chance to visit exclusive locations only accessible by boat, and the all-inclusive touch that covers drinks, snacks, towels, and fuel. The one potential consideration? The tour’s duration is just 2.5 hours, so if you’re craving a full day on the water, you’ll need to upgrade to the 5-hour option. This trip suits travelers who value comfort, privacy, and authentic coastal explorations, especially romantics or small groups of friends wanting to celebrate or unwind.

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Good To Know

• Private & customizable: Ideal for small groups seeking a tailored experience.
• Stunning locations: Access exclusive bays and beaches only visible from the sea.
• All-inclusive service: Drinks, snacks, towels, and fuel are covered, offering convenience and luxury.
• Flexible itinerary: You can extend the tour up to 5 hours for more exploration.
• Expert captain: Multilingual guide ensures smooth, insightful navigation.
• Perfect for relaxation: Swim in breathtaking bays, enjoy shade, or rest in the yacht’s cabin.

Setting Sail: What to Expect from the Riva Yacht Tour

The journey begins at the charming port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a seaside jewel that sets an elegant tone for the cruise. From there, your personal captain—speaking four languages—takes command of the classic Riva yacht, known for its timeless style and comfort. The smooth ride promises a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and pure relaxation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: La Mala Beach
Your first stop is La Mala Beach, a secret haven tucked between towering cliffs. Accessible only by sea, this secluded stretch of white sand and turquoise water feels like your own private paradise. Guests who have visited describe it as a “hidden gem,” perfect for a peaceful swim. With a 1-hour stop, you’ll have time to float, soak up the sun, or just stare at the cliffs surrounding you.

Stop 2: Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Next, the yacht heads to Paloma Beach, famed for its celebrity sightings and lush surroundings. Enclosed by dramatic cliffs, this spot offers crystal-clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim or snorkeling with provided equipment. Reviewers mention it as a “favorite retreat” that truly feels like a slice of Mediterranean luxury. The hour spent here is perfect for lounging and snapping photos of the iconic scenery.

Flexible Exploration & Additional Stops
Beyond these two highlights, the tour can be customized. Many guests love cruising along Villefranche-sur-Mer, or simply lingering in their favorite spots. The captain’s flexibility means you can extend your time, or explore additional locations like Nice if you wish. For an extra €1,000 per person, you can upgrade to a 5-hour adventure, making this a versatile option for those wanting more.

The Experience on Board

The Riva yacht itself is a highlight—sleek, elegant, and equipped with shade, a cabin, towels, and an open shower, all designed for maximum comfort. During the cruise, soft drinks and bottled water are provided, so you stay refreshed without lifting a finger. Snorkeling gear is also available, turning the trip into a mini aquatic adventure.

Guests consistently mention the professionalism of the captain, who makes sure everyone feels safe and well cared for. One reviewer appreciated that the captain spoke four languages, making communication smooth and enjoyable. You can expect a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to pause, float, and take in the views.

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Navigating the Details: Practical Aspects of the Tour

Duration, Group Size & Accessibility

The standard excursion lasts 2.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity. The private setting ensures an intimate experience, perfect for couples celebrating special moments or small groups of friends. The maximum group size is six, which means a cozy, personalized experience without feeling crowded.

Price & Value

While the exact cost per person is not specified here, reviews suggest that the all-inclusive approach—covering fuel, drinks, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear—adds significant value. Given the exclusivity of the locations visited and the luxury of the yacht, this tour can be seen as a worthwhile splurge for travelers seeking quality over quantity.

What to Bring & Not to Bring

Prepare for the day by packing essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a change of clothes. The tour explicitly recommends biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent for eco-conscious travelers. While pets, high heels, and fishing are not allowed, bringing a camera and swimwear will ensure you’re ready to capture the sights and enjoy the water.

Meeting Point & End Location

The adventure starts at the debarcadère in Port de Beaulieu, marked by a whale tail statue—an easy landmark to find. The tour concludes back at the same spot, so plan your day accordingly. The convenience of the same meeting point at the end helps keep logistics simple.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience truly memorable is the combination of privacy, flexibility, and access to otherwise unreachable spots. Unlike crowded boat tours, this private cruise offers a tailored pace—whether you want to relax at one bay or hop around multiple locations.

Guests who have taken the tour appreciate the expert service of the captain, who makes sure every detail runs smoothly. The cozy yacht’s amenities—shade, cabin, towels, and open shower—mean you can enjoy your time on and off the water comfortably.

The scenery itself is another major draw. From the cliffs and hidden beaches to the bustling Nice coastline, every view promises to be picture-perfect. The water’s clarity invites snorkeling and swimming, making this a true escape into the Mediterranean’s beauty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is especially suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want a private, luxurious experience of the Riviera’s coast. It’s ideal for those craving stunning vistas, secluded beaches, and a relaxed pace without the noise and crowds of larger tours.

If you’re a fan of luxury and personalized service, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions, enjoying a romantic day, or simply treating yourself to a unique maritime adventure.

However, travelers prone to seasickness or over 95 years old should consider their comfort level, as the trip involves some sea travel and physical activity (swimming, relaxing, etc.).

Final Thoughts

This Riva yacht experience offers a blend of elegance, flexibility, and exclusivity that can turn an ordinary day into a memorable outing. The carefully curated stops showcase the most beautiful bays and beaches of the French Riviera, accessible only by sea, making it a truly special way to see this legendary coast.

The all-inclusive setup, professional multilingual captain, and cozy yacht amenities mean you can relax and focus on enjoying the scenery. Whether you want to float in turquoise waters, snap photos of cliffs, or lounge in the shade, this tour adapts to your mood.

For travelers seeking a luxurious, private escape with incredible views, this adventure delivers. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to celebrate, unwind, or simply indulge in a one-of-a-kind Riviera experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts 2.5 hours, but you can extend it up to 5 hours for an extra €1,000 per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Quai É Whitechurch in the port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, marked by a whale tail statue.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat rental, a personal captain, towels, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, an open shower, shade, a cabin for resting, and fuel for the half-day tour.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Snacks are provided onboard, but lunch or dinner are not included. Alcoholic beverages are not included but can be purchased separately.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is not recommended for people prone to seasickness, and swimming stops require comfort in the water. Children over 95 years old or those sensitive to movement may want to consider this.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), a change of clothes, and any personal toiletries. Eco-friendly sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups of up to 6 persons, ensuring a personalized atmosphere.

To sum it up, this private Riva yacht tour presents a refined way to explore the French Riviera’s coast, combining exclusivity with breathtaking scenery. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape, you’ll find the experience well worth the investment and a highlight of any Riviera trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: