From Port Grimaud: Half-Day Classic Yacht Sailing Experience

A charming taste of the French Riviera aboard a classic Edwardian yacht

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed yet luxurious way to explore the South of France, the Half-Day Classic Yacht Sailing Experience from Port Grimaud might be just what you need. This 4-hour adventure offers a rare chance to sail on a beautifully preserved Edwardian gaff cutter, taking in the stunning coastlines and glamorous yachts of Saint-Tropez. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll feel transported to a bygone era of sailing elegance.

We particularly love how this tour balances a peaceful, scenic cruise with opportunities for swimming and enjoying local snacks—perfect for those who want both adventure and downtime. A notable consideration is that the cost per group is around $1,217, making it a more premium experience, but one that offers significant value for those seeking a private, personal outing. This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic maritime charm, are looking for a private group setting, and want to learn more about sailing without needing prior experience.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing on a classic Edwardian yacht provides a unique glimpse into traditional boat design.
• Relaxing and scenic with the chance to swim or snorkel in clear waters.
• Knowledgeable guides and crew make the experience educational and engaging.
• Gourmet picnic-style lunch enhances the leisurely vibe of the trip.
• Private group setting ensures intimacy and personalized attention.
• Ideal for those seeking a luxurious, less crowded alternative to large boat tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An authentic sail along the French Riviera

The Half-Day Classic Yacht Sailing Experience is designed to give you a taste of traditional yacht sailing while soaking in the extraordinary scenery of the French Riviera. From Port Grimaud, a picture-perfect, Venice-like town with winding canals, you’ll head out towards Saint-Tropez, a hotspot for luxury yachts and glamorous visitors.

What sets this tour apart is the vessel itself. The yacht, the LONA II, is an original Edwardian gaff cutter—think polished wood, traditional rigging, and a design that screams vintage elegance. The crew, who are described as friendly and passionate, will handle all the sailing tasks, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. No prior sailing experience is needed, which opens this adventure to most visitors.

We loved the way the captain and crew share their enthusiasm for the boat and the area. As one review highlights, “Ian and Carolina are very experienced sailors who clearly have a passion for what they do.” Their insights about the yacht’s history and the local scenery add an educational layer to the trip without feeling like a lecture.

What to Expect on the Day

The experience begins at the quayside near the Grimaud Beach restaurant, where you’ll meet your hosts and receive a safety briefing. From there, the crew will give you a tour of the yacht, showing off its vintage interior, including a cozy saloon with seating for four, and the sunny foredeck perfect for sunbathing.

Once underway, you’ll feel the wind in your hair as the sails are raised and the boat glides gracefully across the water. The pace is gentle but lively enough to make you feel part of the sailing action. Throughout the trip, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about sailing and the yacht’s history.

The Scenic Cruise to Saint-Tropez

The route takes you past the countless super yachts anchored in the bay—an impressive sight that highlights the area’s luxury appeal. As you cruise along, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, with photo-worthy moments of the rugged cliffs and colorful coastal villages. The guides are eager to point out interesting landmarks and share stories about the area’s history.

Swimming and Snorkeling in the Bay

One of the highlights mentioned repeatedly in reviews is the chance to stop for a swim or snorkel in the clear waters. You’ll love the way the water sparkles under the Mediterranean sun, and the marine life is often visible just beneath the surface. It’s a relaxed break that adds a refreshing element to the voyage.

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Lunch and Relaxation

While the tour does not include a pre-packed picnic, it features a picnic-style lunch on board. This typically involves tasty snacks and drinks served as you relax in the tranquil setting. The yacht’s design allows you to enjoy your meal either inside in the cozy saloon or outside on deck, soaking in the sunshine.

The Experience: A Balance of Leisure and Learning

The crew’s expertise is a standout feature. As one reviewer confidently notes, “Ian and Carolina are very friendly and knowledgeable, making the sailing both fun and educational.” They’re happy to answer questions about sailing techniques, the history of the yacht, or local sights, making the journey informative as well as relaxing.

The yacht’s interior is described as very original, with a comfortable saloon and a small toilet—perfectly suited for a half-day trip. Outside, the ample deck space and cockpit allow you to feel involved in the sailing or simply enjoy the sunshine.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $1,217 for a private group, this experience is aimed at travelers seeking a more intimate, bespoke adventure. Compared to larger, group-based boat tours, this offers a level of exclusivity and personalized attention that many find worthwhile. The price includes the yacht tour, safety briefing, drinks, snacks, and the opportunity to swim or snorkel, making it a package that covers most essentials for a memorable half-day outing.

While the cost may appear high, the value lies in the vessel’s vintage charm, the private atmosphere, and the chance to learn from passionate guides. Those who enjoy authentic sailing experiences or seeking a romantic escape will find this especially appealing.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a more private, relaxed day on the water with a touch of sophistication. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to learn about classic sailing vessels without the hassle of organizing logistics. Given the focus on comfort and exclusivity, it’s a good pick for special occasions or those wanting a break from crowded tours.

However, those prone to seasickness might want to consider their sensitivity, as the open water sailing can be choppy at times. Also, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Port Grimaud, as this isn’t included.

Final thoughts

This half-day sailing experience offers a genuine taste of maritime elegance combined with breathtaking views of the French Riviera. The vintage yacht, knowledgeable crew, and scenic route make it a memorable choice for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.

It’s particularly perfect for those who appreciate authentic sailing, vintage boats, or want a more intimate adventure with a touch of luxury. While it’s a pricier option, the personalized and high-quality nature of this tour justifies the cost for many travelers.

If you’re looking to combine a scenic cruise with learning about sailing, or just want a peaceful day on the water surrounded by stunning scenery, this tour truly delivers.

FAQs

Is prior sailing experience required?
No, sailing knowledge isn’t necessary. The crew handles everything, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. It’s also nice to have a sense of adventure and curiosity.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the starting point near Grimaud Beach.

What is the duration of the experience?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, from meeting time to return to Port Grimaud.

Are drinks and snacks provided?
Yes, drinks and snacks are included as part of the experience, with options to enjoy them on deck or inside the yacht.

Can I swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. The crew typically stops for a swim or snorkel in the clear waters of the bay—an often-highlighted part of the trip.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on comfort, scenic sailing, and swimming suggests it may suit older children or teenagers, especially if they enjoy boats and the outdoors.

To sum it up, this Half-Day Classic Yacht Sailing Experience combines the charm of vintage sailing with the stunning scenery of Saint-Tropez and the French Riviera. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone after a luxurious, authentic maritime adventure, it promises a peaceful, beautiful, and educational outing that you’ll remember long after the sails are furled.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby