Superyacht views, plus real swim time. A private Pershing 40 charter around St Tropez is a simple way to get on the water, cruise the Golfe du Saint Tropez, and still build in proper time to swim and snorkel with included gear and refreshments.

What I like most is the freedom: you can choose a morning or afternoon departure and shape the experience around your group. The other big win is the route’s mix of iconic coastline cruising and anchored swim spots like Canoubiers. The one thing to watch is that this is a good-weather experience, so rough seas can change plans.

Quick hits before you go

• A true private half-day: only your group is out on the water (up to 8 per booking).
• Pershing 40 comfort: a slick, modern setup that reviewers consistently describe as comfortable.
• Swim-focused stops: anchor time where you can jump in, swim, and use water toys.
• Included snorkel and paddle time: snorkel equipment plus a stand-up paddleboard are part of the package.
• Options for boarding: you may depart from ports like Port Grimaud, Sainte Maxime, Saint Tropez, or Marines de Cogolin.
• Flexible timing: you pick morning or afternoon to fit your day in town.

Where you board matters: Port Grimaud, St Tropez, and nearby marinas

This charter is built around getting you out fast and keeping the day feeling light. Boarding can happen from several ports around the area, including Port Grimaud, Sainte Maxime, Saint Tropez, or Marines de Cogolin. That means you’re not stuck crisscrossing the coast before you even hit open water.

The start location in the Ramatuelle area is tied to a specific boat meeting point, and pickup (if offered for your booking) is coordinated in advance by message so you land at the right dock. Practically, that’s good news: you can plan your morning or afternoon without adding extra guesswork.

One more capacity note to keep in mind: the charter is often described as having space for ten, while the booking is clearly priced for groups up to eight. If your group is larger than you expected, ask early so everyone’s on the same page.

Choosing morning or afternoon: the 4-hour pacing that works

You’re out for about four hours, give or take, and that time is designed to feel efficient. You’ll cruise the coastline, then spend real time at anchor where swimming and snorkeling gear actually gets used. That pacing is ideal if you don’t want a full-day commitment but still want the St Tropez-on-the-water experience.

Morning vs afternoon mostly comes down to what your day needs. If you want a cleaner schedule, morning departure often fits better with lunch plans onshore. If you’re staying late in town, afternoon departure can feel like an easy reset: you see the coastline in softer light and end with enough energy left to dinner.

Port Grimaud: the friendly start that sets the tone

One of the first stops is Port Grimaud, and it’s often described in a way that instantly makes sense once you’re on the water: people call it little Venice. Even if you’re not chasing architecture, the canals and marina layout create a built-in “wow” start without needing a long sightseeing day.

The practical value here is simple. Starting in a scenic port means your charter doesn’t feel like a long ride before you get to the fun. You’re on the yacht, you’re moving, and you’re already seeing coastline details right away.

The Golfe du Saint Tropez cruise: close-up views of the superyacht world

From Port Grimaud and around St Tropez, the experience focuses on cruising the Golfe du Saint Tropez. This is the part where you notice just how packed the coast can be with luxury yachts—and how close those boats feel when you’re floating in the same water.

If your idea of a great day includes people-watching from a distance, this section delivers. Several captains in this operation are described as taking you through the bay so you can actually see the scale of the scene, not just catch a glimpse from shore.

This also tends to be the “photos first” phase of the charter. You’ll get angles of the coastline and harbors that you simply can’t replicate from land.

Canoubiers (Billionaires Bay): the swim stop people remember

The headline anchorage is Canoubiers, also known as Billionaires Bay. The name isn’t just marketing; it’s tied to the area’s celebrity association, and the water here is the whole point of the stop. Expect an anchored pause where you can swim, use snorkeling equipment, and often enjoy water toys like paddleboarding.

This is where the private format really shows. A public boat might rush the stop or limit time. Here, you’re paying for the freedom to enjoy the moment—jump in, float, snorkel, and then come back when your group’s ready.

Potential drawback: anchoring time depends on conditions. If the sea is choppy, you may still get time in the water, but the captain may adjust the plan for comfort and safety. If you’re sensitive to motion, mention it early so your captain can plan accordingly.

Parcs de Saint Tropez: relaxation with a scenic payoff

After the Canoubiers swim time, the route continues toward the Parcs de Saint Tropez area. This part of the day is more about slowing down than stacking in landmarks. You’re cruising into another scenic stretch and then settling into another stretch of downtime on the water.

For many people, this is the “breathe” section. You’ve already had your big swim stop, and now it’s about enjoying the coastline atmosphere without feeling like the day is racing forward.

If your group has a mix—some who want to swim a lot and others who prefer to relax—this stop format works because the boat keeps moving between anchored periods rather than forcing one long, exhausting stretch.

Salins beach and the Citadelle area: classic coastline, not just open water

Another anchor point is Salins beach, described as a quieter stretch with clear water that makes for easy swimming. It’s a great follow-up to Canoubiers because it keeps the day varied: different coastline feel, different water texture, and another chance to enjoy time off the boat.

The charter also includes a stop that centers on views near Citadelle de Saint Tropez – Musee d’histoire maritime. You don’t need a museum ticket to benefit from it. Cruising near this landmark gives you that unmistakable St Tropez skyline feel from the water, which is a very different perspective from strolling the streets.

Drawback to note: because this is a half-day focused on the yacht experience, you should treat it as water-first. If you’re hoping for deep land time and museum-style stops, this charter isn’t built for that.

Snacks, soft drinks, snorkel gear, and those small comfort details

The basics are covered: bottled water, snacks, and soda/soft drinks are included. You’ll also have snorkeling equipment and a stand-up paddleboard for use during the charter. That’s a meaningful value add because it removes the hassle of bringing gear and guessing what you need.

Onboard comfort seems to matter to this operation. People mention features like an onboard restroom and a board used for jumping into the water, which makes the swim stops feel more practical and less “gear-and-climb” heavy.

Music can also make a difference in how the day feels. There are comments about being able to play your own music on board, which helps if your group wants the boat to feel like a private party rather than a formal tour.

One small realism check: if someone in your group is prone to seasickness, have a plan. On at least one charter, the captain was quick to handle a seasick situation with help right away. That’s exactly the kind of competence you want from a crew in these small-group settings.

Price and value: $1,802 per group can be a smart deal

The price is $1,802.19 per group for up to 8 people, for about four hours. That sounds high until you break it down. At full capacity (8 people), it comes out to roughly $225 per person—and that’s before you count what’s included: snorkel gear, paddleboard use, snacks, and drinks, plus a private captain and yacht.

Two key value drivers make this feel worthwhile:

• You’re paying for access, not just movement. This is the difference between seeing the bay and actually spending time in it.
• You avoid gear hassles. Snorkel and paddleboard equipment are included, and refreshments mean you don’t burn time searching for food.

What’s not included is a fuel surcharge, so expect that if your booking specifies it. Also, because it requires good weather, you’ll want to keep one flexible piece of your schedule so a sea change doesn’t wreck your whole day.

Crew and communication: how to get a smooth day-of start

This charter is private, but you’re not left guessing. Confirmation is sent within 48 hours, and communication is done via message so you know where to meet. A lot of the “ease” people talk about here comes from clear dock instructions and a crew that manages the day calmly.

There’s also enough evidence in the experience to say that English communication is supported. If you want a crew member who makes navigation and instructions feel easy, this operator’s team has been praised for it.

Balanced note: a couple of low-rating situations were tied to communication or scheduling confusion. In one case, a refund was issued after it was corrected that the charter date was mistakenly shifted. Another involved weather-driven cancellation and a messaging delay that caused stress at the dock. The lesson for you is simple: keep your phone ready for updates, and double-check the confirmed date and meeting point the day before.

Practical tips so your half-day feels effortless

A few things help most people get the most out of the time window:

• Bring a swimsuit under your clothes and pack a quick-dry layer. You’ll want to jump in fast at anchor stops.
• Sunscreen and water-based comfort matter since you’ll be in bright Mediterranean light during those swim breaks.
• Keep your phone secured. If you’re using snorkeling gear or paddleboarding, you don’t want to manage loose items.
• Plan for motion if you’re sensitive. Even with a great captain, sea conditions can change.

Also, if your group includes different energy levels, tell the captain what you want most: swimming time, snorkeling time, or just cruising and photos. Private charters work best when the crew knows your priorities early.

Should you book this Pershing 40 half-day charter in St-Tropez?

If you want a short, high-impact day on the water, this fits well. It’s especially good for couples, small friend groups, and families who want to swim and play without the logistics of renting multiple pieces of gear. The included snorkel and paddleboard equipment turn a yacht ride into an actual water experience, not just a scenic cruise.

I wouldn’t book this if your schedule is extremely tight and you can’t handle weather changes. Since the charter is weather-dependent, think of it as a plan that works best when you give it a little flexibility.

Overall, if you can align the timing, bring the right swim-day basics, and keep an eye on dock updates, this is the kind of St Tropez experience that feels like you got closer to the Mediterranean than you could from shore—without spending the entire day doing it.

FAQ

How long is the half-day private yacht charter?

The charter lasts about 4 hours.

What does it cost, and what group size is it for?

It costs $1,802.19 per group, up to 8 people.

Where can the yacht depart from?

You can embark from local ports such as Port Grimaud, Sainte Maxime, Saint Tropez, or Marines de Cogolin.

What’s included during the charter?

Included are bottled water, snacks, soda/soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, and a stand-up paddleboard.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included.

What isn’t included in the price?

A fuel surcharge is not included.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

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