Catamaran Charter in Var

Pocket Guide to Var

Toulon

Toulon is not so much a glamorous city in Var, but it boasts experiences that nowhere else can. A military harbour used by the French navy since the 15th century, Toulon hasn’t always been an obvious choice for a catamaran charter. You can explore the Musée de la Marina, which exhibits historic model ships, old maps and paintings from the 17th century, or wander the ‘Cours Lafayette’ street markets. In addition, the 584ft peak, Mont Faron, which stands beside the city makes for a great hike/cable car ride, and you will be met with ravishing views! If you rent a catamaran from this part of Var, you can also explore the neighbouring L’île des Embiez, where salt marshes and pine forests will well and truly connect you with nature.

Hyères & Porquerolles

The town of Hyères is one of the best places in Var for a catamaran charter. It boasts stunning landscapes, best seen from the ruins of Château Saint Pierre, where the views are magnificent, and you can see out to the island of Porquerolles. On the island you can hike, enjoying the fragrant surroundings of pine and Eucalyptus trees, or before embarking on your boat charter, try your hand at windsurfing! You can visit the farmers market on Ave Gambetta, or drop anchor at Notre Dame Beach for a spot of sunbathing, where you will be met with glorious soft white sands and crystalline turquoise waters which back onto dense, emerald vegetation.

Saint Raphaël

The beauty of a catamaran charter in Var, is that you are not confined to just sailing; there’s plenty of activities to do. If you rent a boat from Saint Raphaël, you can go deep sea diving, canoeing, kayaking and hiking during your charter! Visit the Byzantine-style Basilica built in the 19th century, or Église San Rafeu, where you can get beautiful views of the town from the top of the watchtower. There is also an archaeology museum and the Jardin Bonaparte; and despite the touristy nature of the town, it remains clean and quieter than many areas, so it’s a great place to start your catamaran charter!

Navigation Conditions

Navigating Var means gorgeous weather; long days cruising through sparkling waters under the heat of the Mediterranean sun in calm winds. To get the best of your catamaran charter, you should opt to sail between the months of April and October, (though May, June and October can be susceptible to the stronger mistral winds; not suitable for less experienced sailors).

Where to eat out in Var…

During your catamaran charter, you will have the chance to sample some of Var’s culinary magnificence. If you rent a boat from Hyères, try out ‘Au fil de l’eau’, which serves up dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients, or if you’re in Toulon, moor your catamaran and head to ‘L’Aromate Provençale’; a charming little brasserie serving exquisite flavours of the Mediterranean.

Reaching your destination

You can get to Var by airplane very easily; Marseille-Provence and Nice-Cote d’Azur airports offer direct flights from many international destinations, whilst Toulon-Hyères airport offers flights from Paris on a daily basis, so it’s very easy to reach your catamaran charter base.