Boat trip Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat

Fancy a complete change of scenery and the chance to enjoy the most beautiful landscapes the French Riviera has to offer, viewed from the water? Choose a boat trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat. Why these two destinations? Quite simply because they’re the stuff of dreams. Villefranche-sur-Mer is home to France’s most beautiful harbour, whilst Cap Ferrat is the home of the most beautiful gardens and villas on the French Riviera. Find out where you can moor your pleasure yacht and what activities are on offer.

Boat trip Villefranche-sur-Mer : where to moor your yacht? What are the best things to do ?

Villefranche-sur-Mer is an idyllic destination on the French Riviera. You certainly won’t be disappointed if you choose this port of call during your getaway aboard the Axopar 45 Cross Top. The bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer is the most exceptional on the French Riviera. It is 2.5 km long and 1.5 km wide, covering a total area of 4 km². It is surrounded by Cap de Nice to the west and Cap Ferrat to the east.

Where to moor in Villefranche-sur-Mer with the Axopar 45 ?

To moor safely, head for the ‘Palais de la Marine’ mooring area, which is equipped with around thirty mooring buoys (ZMEL). If you plan to extend your stay, you can also choose the Port de la Darse. However, as its capacity is limited to 520 berths, it is necessary to book in advance. Please note: it is strictly forbidden to moor in the centre of the harbour, which is reserved for cruise ships.

Your leisure activities in Villefranche-sur-Mer

On site, several activities await you. Apart from water sports such as swimming, snorkeling or paddleboarding, Villefranche-sur-Mer has other treasures to offer. But for that, you will have to disembark and head to the historic heart to appreciate its paved streets and pastel-colored facades. If time permits, visit the Saint-Elme citadel, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the sea which today houses the City Hall and a few museums. The highlight of the show remains the striking panorama it offers to its visitors: an absolutely spectacular 360-degree viewpoint.

Boat trip Cap-Ferrat : what are the anchorage zones? What to do in Cap-Ferrat?

The peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an exclusive and preserved destination on the Côte d’Azur. Nicknamed the “Cape of Billionaires”, this sanctuary of greenery houses sumptuous Belle Époque properties hidden beneath maritime pines and cypresses. Taking a boat trip to Cap-Ferrat aboard our Axopar 45 XT is the ultimate alternative to treat oneself to a day of absolute escape, far from the urban hustle and bustle.

What are the best anchorage zones in Cap-Ferrat?

Thanks to the shallow draft and the exceptional maneuverability of the Axopar 45, you can safely access the most coveted anchorages of the peninsula, while scrupulously respecting local regulations for the protection of posidonia meadows.

L’Anse des Fosses et des Fossettes : Located on the east coast of the Cape, these two adjacent coves offer a particularly calm body of water sheltered from westerly winds. The clear sandy bottom gives the sea idyllic lagoon reflections. It is the dream place to drop anchor in the morning, deploy the boat’s sun loungers and enjoy a refreshing swim.
La Baie de Passable : Nestled to the west of the peninsula, facing the majestic bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Passable beach is a must-visit spot. This anchorage offers a spectacular panorama of the steep reliefs of the hinterland. You can request the shuttle service (tender) to disembark directly onto the private pontoon of the eponymous beach restaurant.
Le Mouillage de Paloma Beach (Anse de la Scaletta) : A legendary and sheltered site, bordered by limestone cliffs and a dense pine forest. The seabed here is of absolute clarity, perfect for securing the Axopar and spending an afternoon of idleness to the rhythm of the lapping waves. What to do and see in Cap-Ferrat during your stopover? Once anchored in one of these heavenly coves, step ashore to discover the unique cultural richness and art of living of the peninsula.

Activities to do on the water and snorkeling

Underwater Trail Exploration (Anse des Fosses) : Equipped with our premium masks and snorkels, dive into the discovery of a unique marked trail. You will observe an incredibly rich underwater fauna and flora, preserved in the heart of this natural lagoon.
High-tech gliding at the foot of the cliffs : Take advantage of the large storage spaces of the Axopar to launch your water toys into the water. The calm waters surrounding the Cape lend themselves ideally to memorable glide sessions facing the most sumptuous yachts in the world. Escapades ashore
La Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild : A Belle Époque masterpiece accessible in a few minutes from the coastline. This palace of Italian Renaissance inspiration, entirely pink, overlooks the sea and is surrounded by nine exceptional themed gardens (French, Spanish, Japanese…). A visit suspended in time.
The Coastal Path (Tour of the Cape) : For hiking enthusiasts, this path traced right into the rock follows the contours of the peninsula. It connects Passable beach to the port of Saint-Jean and offers raw, wild, and breathtaking panoramas over the sea.