How to Rent a Yacht on the French Riviera: Tips and Routes.

Cruise to Porquerolles

According to The Sun: A speedboat races across the sparkling water, leaving a foamy trail behind as we admire the pine forests along the coastline.

Relaxed Captain Lawrence easily navigates the boat from the charming port of Bormes-les-Mimosas to the island of Porquerolles, known as the 'floating forest' thanks to its pine hills, vineyards, and olive groves.

As the engine roars, I sit at a small table and L-shaped sofa in the back, while my other half stashes beer and snacks in the cabin's fridge.

My older kids are already settled on the cushions at the front, snapping selfies for social media.

So, before you ask, I didn’t win the lottery. We rented the boat for the day – with Captain Lawrence – through the company Samboat.

This company can be thought of as the Airbnb for the sea, connecting travelers with boat owners around the world.

With over 50,000 options – from two-seater RIBs and canal boats to stylish catamarans and luxury yachts – you can rent for a day, a week, or even longer.

Seeing the island from the land and water adds to the experience.

Lisa Minot

Our boat can accommodate up to ten people, and for a price starting from £650 (just £65 per person), you can enjoy the luxury of marine life without breaking the bank.

For those without international boating licenses or who simply want someone else to do all the work, a captain is available.

We were lucky to have Lawrence, who has lived on Porquerolles for 25 years. We chose the island because even in the height of summer, it feels peaceful compared to the bustling Saint-Tropez and other towns.

Lawrence knew the perfect spots to show us cozy coves, a wonderful beach bar for sunset, and the best lunch spot.

On Porquerolles, there are virtually no cars – tourists opt for two-wheeled transport to explore the green areas, tranquil bays, and sandy beaches with 54 km of marked trails.

Circling the island, Lawrence stops at Notre-Dame beach – once voted the most beautiful beach in Europe. My daughter, who loves TikTok, squealed with delight.

She had to get a photo of the bay from the top of the cliffs.

Drifting ashore with her cousin, they take a winding path from the beach and are rewarded with a stunning view of the light waters framed by pines and eucalyptus trees.

Charming Marina

At the beach of Languuster, on the western end of the island, Lawrence points out the unique beaches – a white ribbon of clean sand on the northern side and a black sandy beach to the south.

For lunch, we stop at the island's charming marina and stroll to the Porquerolles restaurant overlooking the village square.

Lawrence booked us a table with a view and even gave us some tips on the tastiest dishes.

After lunch, we sail along the southern coastline, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the sea, and impressive coves are only accessible by boat.

We dock at Calanque du Bregancon and swim and snorkel in the clearest waters I've seen in years.

Viewing the island from land and water makes this trip even more memorable.

Then we sail back to the mainland, grateful for the chance to experience luxurious marine life, even if just for a day.

• Check out samboat.com

The cruise to Porquerolles is not only family fun but also a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of France's nature and enjoy time in comfort. The island, known for its stunning beaches and calm atmosphere, invites all travelers to take a break from everyday worries and immerse themselves in experiences that will be remembered for a long time.