Saint Tropez: Private Boat Charter with Water Sports & Port Grimaud

Summary

Private boat day in St Tropez bay with swimming, paddleboarding and canals

You’ll feel Saint Tropez Bay come alive from a private boat charter—see superyachts up close, swim or paddleboard in quiet coves, and wander Port Grimaud’s canals with time for ice cream or lunch if you want. Your local skipper handles everything (and has stories), so you can just relax and enjoy those small moments you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much before noon. We met our skipper at Marines de Cogolin — he waved us over, sun already glinting off the water, and helped us clamber onto this sturdy little 21ft boat. Not fancy, but somehow that felt right. There was a salty smell in the air, sunscreen mixing with coffee from someone’s flask. He asked if we wanted to see the superyachts first or just get moving. I said “let’s see how the other half lives,” and off we went to St Tropez port, weaving past boats that looked bigger than my apartment.

Our guide — I think his name was Alex? — pointed out bars along the quay where “movie stars sometimes show up.” I tried to picture it but mostly I just noticed the locals unloading crates of something that smelled like fresh bread. Then we anchored near Plage des Graniers. The water was colder than I expected (I yelped), but after a few minutes floating there, staring up at the sky, I felt lighter than I have in months. Someone suggested paddleboarding; I wobbled around while Alex grinned and gave me tips in French-accented English.

Later we drifted into Baie de Canebiers—Millionaires Bay—where everything felt quieter except for the soft slap of water against the hull. It’s weird how peaceful it gets out there; even my phone seemed embarrassed to buzz. We could’ve stopped for lunch at Les Graniers (Alex said he could book it), but instead we headed for Port Grimaud’s canals. It really does look like a mini Venice, but French—pastel houses, window boxes spilling geraniums, people waving from little bridges. We got ice cream and wandered a bit before heading back. Honestly, I still think about that view as we left: sunlight flickering on water and everyone just quietly happy for a minute.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour in St Tropez Bay

• Visit Port of St Tropez
• Anchor at Plage des Graniers for swim
• Optional lunch reservation at Les Graniers
• Visit Baie de Canebiers for water activities
• Explore Port Grimaud canals and village

Top questions

How many people can join the Saint Tropez private boat charter?

The boat seats up to 6 guests comfortably.

Where does the tour start?

The standard departure is from Marines de Cogolin, but pickup from St Tropez, St Maxime or Port Grimaud is possible for an extra charge.

Are water sports included on this tour?

Yes, you can use paddleboards, wakeboards, waterskis, inflatable towables and snorkels at no extra cost.

Can we bring our dog on board?

You’re welcome to bring up to 2 dogs; other pets by request (no llamas or pot-bellied pigs).

Is lunch included during the tour?

No lunch is included by default, but your guide can book a reservation at Les Graniers restaurant if you’d like to stop there.

How long does the private boat charter last?

You can choose between three or four hours for your tour around Saint Tropez Bay.

Can infants join this Saint Tropez boat trip?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Is there an extra charge for fuel?

Yes—a fuel surcharge applies: €60 for 2 hours, €90 for 3 hours and €120 for 4 hours (paid before departure).

What’s included

Your day includes use of all water sports equipment—paddleboards, wakeboards, waterskis, inflatable tubes and snorkels—plus buoyancy aids if needed. You’ll depart from Marines de Cogolin unless you request another port (for an extra fee). Pickup is flexible within Saint Tropez Bay area ports so just let them know your preference when booking.