Sailing in France: The Complete Guide to Boats and Licences
From Riviera yacht charter to Canal du Midi houseboats, Corsica diving to Brittany sailing: six water sports across four coasts, and the licence each one needs.
Water sports Guides
France's water sports stretch from Riviera boat hire and jet ski rules to Canal du Midi charters and Corsica kayaking. These guides focus on licences, seasons, and where to go without wasting a day on the wrong coast.
Water sportsOutdoors
Boat Charter France: Bareboat vs Skippered Licence Rules Explained
Skippered or bareboat changes who needs a licence in France. What charter companies actually check, and the €2,000-5,000 deposit to budget before you book.
9 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Canal du Midi Boat Hire: Do You Need a Licence?
No, hiring a self-drive boat on the Canal du Midi does not require a personal licence. What the mandatory briefing covers and how a week on the water works.
11 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Do You Need a Licence for a Jet Ski in France? The Real Rules
France requires a permis côtier, costing roughly €350-600, to ride a jet ski over 6hp solo. Here's why almost every tourist rental is a guided ride instead.
8 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing in France: Spots and Seasons
Leucate's Tramontane wind blows over 300 days a year, making it France's top kite and windsurf hub. Spot list, season, and lesson basics for beginners.
9 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Sailing in Brittany or the Riviera? How to Choose
Riviera marinas mean warm water and easy sailing, but Brittany's tides swing over 13 meters and its charter costs run far lower. Here's the trade-off.
9 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Scuba Diving in France: The Complete Riviera and Corsica Guide
From wreck penetration off Saint-Tropez to grouper-filled reefs at the Lavezzi Islands: 8 dive sites worth a trip across two coasts, and who each suits.
12 min read
Water sportsOutdoors
Sea Kayaking in France: The Complete Calanques and Corsica Guide
Where to sea kayak in France: the Calanques' limestone inlets near Marseille, plus Corsica's Scandola Reserve and Lavezzi Islands, on a 3-hour paddle.
10 min read