Today, it’s off to Monaco which is just a short cruise from Cap Ferrat. But the first stop of the day will be the beach at Plage Mala on Cap d’Ail. A truly stunning bay, framed by towering cliffs, Plage Mala is one of the most secluded, lovely beaches anywhere on the Côte d’Azur. This really is a truly beautiful anchorage. Lunch ashore at either La Reserve de la Mala or Eden Plage Mala will be very enjoyable. This is also a great place to enjoy the toys onboard, especially the standup paddle boards! The views towards Monaco and back over Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat really are magnificent, and paddling around the bay in total silence is truly the best way to appreciate the majesty of your surroundings!
Early evening and it’s time to come into port in Monaco. Monaco has two ports, each with its’own very distinct flavour. The Port de Fontvieille is laid back and relatively quiet, which appeals to those looking to relax. But as we are going for the ultimate French Riviera yacht charter experience during this week, there is only one place to be on a charter yacht in Monaco, and that’s the main port, or Port Hercule as it’s known. The Port Hercule is like an amphitheatre, framed to the west by the the old town of Monaco (the rock), to the north by scores of apartment blocks rising up to meet the mountains and to the east by the glitz and glamour of Monte-Carlo.
Everyone knows Monaco’s Port Hercule as it is of course the location of the Monaco Grand Prix, the event for which this small Principality in southern France is best known. Every year, the world’s finest drivers push themselves to the limit, racing their cars around the narrow streets of Monaco, something these machines where never designed to do and you’ll see why! As you enter Monaco, many of the famous parts of the circuit will be instantly recognisable from the deck of your yacht, Rascasse, Tabac Corner, the Swimming Pool and the Tunnel. In fact, it is highly likely that your charter yacht will actually be berthed on what is the Monaco Grand Prix circuit!
Tonight is going to be all about glamour, so what better way to begin than with a glass of champagne on your charter yacht, the brightly coloured lights of Monte-Carlo sparkling all around you. It’s only a short walk or taxi ride up the hill to Casino Square, home to Monaco’s legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo. Monaco is famous for two things above all, the Monaco GP and the Monte-Carlo Casino, and it’s only fitting that your first night in Monaco takes place around this magnificent temple to gambling. As you enter Casino Square, you can’t help but admire the splendour of the architecture. To your right stands the legendary Hotel de Paris, to your left, the Cafe de Paris, and it is here that the evening really kicks off with drinks at this world famous people watching spot.
Directly in front of you, you’ll see your restaurant for dinner tonight, Bespoke Yacht Charter’s recommendation is Alain Ducasse at the Hotel de Paris (previously the Louis XV). After a spectacular dinner, how about a drink or two at legendary Monaco nightspot Jimmy’z or perhaps try the new kid on the block, Twiga owned by former F1 team boss and restaurateur, Flavio Briatore.
The next day is spent on the yacht anchored off Monaco, sunbathing, swimming and tearing around the bay on the jet skis.
Monaco is also a great place to ask the charter yacht’s crew to get all the towable toys out and have some real fun. Lunch is taken by the pool at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. In the afternoon, perhaps a game of tennis at Monte-Carlo Country Club, or if that’s not your thing, why not visit Le Rocher and the Prince’s Palace or the Oceanographic Museum?
For dinner, if you don’t want to eat onboard, then try Nobu on the roof of the Fairmont Hotel. Exquisite Japanese dining with the most incredible views of Monaco, the sky and the sea!