Luxury France Voyages

France’s Atlantic shore between Pointe de Grave, at the mouth of the Gironde River, and Biarritz, at the foot of the Pyrenées, is known as Côte d’Argent. The river narrows near Bordeaux, center to one of the world’s most celebrated wine-producing regions. More than 10,000 vineyards dot the countryside, providing most of the Epicurean nation’s Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sémillon, Savignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. During our 2026 season, SeaDream docks in the heart of town and overnights in this charming destination, allowing guests to venture off the beaten path and sample their choice of varietals. With hundreds of historical buildings and monuments, dozens of art galleries and museums, and distinctive French cuisine, Bordeaux is simply unmissable.

Caen is an historically rich city of the Lower Normandy region, lying just inland from the English Channel. Our SeaDream yacht will navigate up the channel and dock close to the city center for easy exploration. Many will recognize Caen for its military significance: the city was the first major objective of the World War II D-Day landings of June 1944, which took place on the beaches just north of the city. Despite heavy bombing during the campaign, the cathedral and many of the oldest buildings dating back to the eleventh century survived and are still available for discovery. Founded by the Viking dynasty of William the Conqueror in the eleventh century, Caen was the jumping off point for William's conquest of Britain in 1066, an event that was immortalized in the Bayeux Tapestry on display in the nearby town of Bayeux. Caen’s narrow streets lined with lively shops, a marina right in the heart of the city, and an array of parks and gardens make for a delightful visit. Caen is also your gateway to Mont-Saint-Michel, an abbey protected as a French historic monument since 1862, and now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Bailiwick of Jersey is a British Crown Dependency off the coast of Normandy, France. Jersey is a separate possession of the Crown and is not part of the United Kingdom.

Saint-Malo is a walled city in Brittany in north-western France on the English Channel. Saint-Malo has one of the highest concentration of seafood restaurants in Europe. It is famous for its local oysters from the nearby village of Cancale. SeaDream has arranged an adventure to Mont Saint Michel as well as a walking overview of Saint Malo on foot.

Nestled off the coast of Brittany in the Bay of Biskay, Belle Île (meaning “beautiful island”) is defined by its rugged coastline dotted with fissured cliffs, natural harbors, and sandy beaches. Explore the island by foot or bike, itself a nature preserve rich in shifting sand dunes, heathered moors, and protected orchids. The 16th-century Vaubun Citadel, the church of Locmaria, and the lighthouse of Gouphar are defining landmarks on this tiny island, perhaps no less approachable than the village charm of cobbled streets, outdoor markets, and delightful cafés.

La Rochelle is a city in western France and a seaport on the Bay of Biscay, a part of the Atlantic Ocean. La Rochelle's main feature is the "Vieux Port" ("Old Harbour"), which is at the heart of the city, picturesque and lined with seafood restaurants. The city walls are open to an evening promenade. The old town has been well-preserved. Inland is the country of Cognac and Pineau.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a fishing port on the Basque coast and now a famous resort, known for its architecture, sandy bay, the quality of the light and the cuisine. The town is located south of Biarritz, on the right bank of the river Nivelle (French for Urdazuri) opposite to Ciboure. The port lies on the estuary just before the river joins the ocean.

Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the second largest on the Mediterranean coast. The city's famous seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais ('the Walkway of the English') owes its name to the earliest settlers to this seaside resort. For over a quarter century, the picturesque Nicean surroundings have attracted not only those in search of relaxation but also those seeking inspiration. SeaDream docks in the small port and offers several land adventure options as well as private arrangements and transfers.

Cassis is a small port situated east of Marseille in the administrative department of the Bouches-du-Rhone in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region in southern France. It is a very popular tourist destination and is famous for its steep cliffs (falaises) and the sheltered limestone inlets called calanques. The wines of Cassis are white and rose, and not to be confused with creme de cassis, a specialty of Burgundy which takes its name from blackcurrants (cassis), not the village here. SeaDream anchors in the bay and offer a land adventure to the impressive Aix en Provence. Other options are taking a local boat to the calanques, hiking along the coast, visiting some of the local vineyards, water sports, mountain biking or simply relaxing in a Balinese bed on the yacht.

Sanary-sur-Mer is a Provencal village located in the Var department in the Provences-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur region of France. Most visitors fall in love with the town shortly after they arrive. The harbor has several traditional wooden boats called “pointus” that are used by the fisherman daily. They sell their catch each morning on the harbor front. Market day is always a special treat so plan accordingly. The nearby village of Bandol has some of the oldest vineyards in France. It’s an easy bike ride down the coast from Sanary-sur-Mer. Other options include a land adventure to the nearby town of Castellet a typical hilltop village where you can explore and have a nice wine tasting. Golf at De La Fregate as well as water sports are also on option here.

With SeaDream’s unique size, we can call to this small gem of a destination. Porquerolles is a mostly un-inhabited and consists of Mediterranean pine forests, rocky coastline, nature reserves, beaches, boating and one little village. It is shaped like a croissant and is 7 km (4.3 miles) long by 3 km (1.9 miles) wide, with five small ranges of hills. The south coast is lined with jagged cliffs, and the north coast have the beaches of Notre Dame, La Courtade, and Plage d'Argent. The village offers sidewalk cafes and a few boutiques.

Le Lavandou is a commune in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France. It derives its name either from the flower lavender that is prevalent in the area, or more prosaicly from the local form of the Occitan name for lavoir, lavandor (for lavador, a public place for washing clothes). Le Lavandou is a seaside resort town, with all the trappings, such as discos and crowds, but also fine sandy beaches right alongside. It was a lovely seaside fishing port, built in 1880, destroyed in 1944, and rebuilt after the war. Today it has an active yacht marina, with the nearest section reserved for the fishing boats still plying their trade. A fish market is held there every morning from 8h-11h, unless the weather prevents the boats from going out.

St. Tropez located on the French Riviera quite simply may be the most famous resort town in Europe. It is a playground for the fashion models, athletes, movie stars, entertainers and other extremely wealthy summertime guests. There’s much to offer in this resort town, shopping, nightlife (Byblos hotel’s Les Caves du Roy nightclub) exceptional beach clubs such as Le Club 55 and Nikki Beach at Pampelonne. Nearby you can explore some of the hill towns and visit the award winning rose wineries. You can also visit neighboring Grimaud and Port Grimaud or just a little further out golf at a few highly rated courses. SeaDream anchors just off the break wall and tenders directly to the pier downtown.

Calvi located on the northwest coast of Corsica in the Haute-Corse department of France. Some have speculated that Christopher Columbus came from Calvi, which at the time was part of the Genoese Empire. SeaDream has an option to dock in the heart of town or anchor off the marina to offer marina possibilities. As most of the main sites are just a stone throw away, we have arranged a guided walking land adventure. Other options include the popular Villages of Corsica adventure, Golf, mountain biking or relaxing on the beach.

Bastia is the principal port of the French island of Corsica. This commercial town is especially famous for its local wines. Main sights include the Museum of Corsica, the former palace of the Genoese governors, which now accommodates a museum of Corsican Ethnography. The fortress with its keep and its 16th-century bell tower protects Terra-Nova and offers great views over the old port, Terra Vecchia, the mountain and the coast. Land Adventures can take you for a casual walking exploration to Erbaluga or further out to Nebbio and St. Florent.

Bonifacio is one of our favorite arrivals! As we approach, the Captain navigates along the limestone cliffs giving guests a sea view of incredible Bonifacio as well as the great Aragon steps leading to the water’s edge. Shortly after the pilot will embark and the Captain will turn the yacht around and back into this very impressive fjord-like marina. This could be one of our highest rated arrivals as the guests always find it both impressive and awe inspiring.

Cannes is a well-known destination in the French Riviera that is home to many international festivals celebrating the arts, including Midem, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, and the global film festival founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival. It’s the first European satellite manufacturer, home to the Cannes Mandelieu Space Center, as well as the headquarters for Thales Alenia Space. Originally a small fishing port heavily tied to the Lerins Islands, Cannes is most characterized by luxury, fame, and hosting conferences. Despite becoming a glamorous destination in the Côte d'Azur, the history of Cannes and the Lerins Islands was quite rocky. Cannes was initially named Aegitna, and established by the Ligurian tribe of Oxybii in the 2nd Century B.C. In 410 A.D. two monks settled on Lerina and established a monastery, housing several hundred monks by the 6th century. Out of fear of a Saracen invasion, Le Suquet was procured by the monks in the 11th century, which led to the birth and expansion on what became known as Cannes. Piracy remained a general problem and by the 12th century, the monastery was finally attacked by Saracen pirates, which further fueled insecurity. In 1520, when French King Francis I and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V declared war, Cannes became a passageway for their armies. The situation in Cannes would worsen when the great plague of 1579 annihilated much of the population. In 1635, the Spanish occupied the town for a couple of years before returning to Spain in 1707 for the War of Spanish Succession. It wasn’t until the 18th century where Cannes finally became tranquil and began flourishing in the 19th century. The economy for Cannes is sustained by business fairs, trade, tourism, and aviation. Points of interest include the Iles de Lerins, Marches Forville, Casino Croisette and Rue Meynadier. During the summer, from May to September, Cannes remains sunny for 12 hours a day. Its warm climate allows lemon, orange and olive trees to thrive, as well as fig, almond, oak, lotus and cypress trees. When sailing to Cannes, be sure to visit La Croisette and stroll along the white sandy beaches on this mile-long promenade where the very essence of this town thrives. SeaDream typically anchors so we can offer water sports to our valued guests. You may occasionally see the yacht docked alongside when we are chartered from the festival.

Historians indicate that Antibes was the first town founded by the Greeks on the Riviera coast. For a very long time, Antibes was the only town between Marseille and Italy. The temples, monuments and an immense 3500 seat amphitheater bear testimony to its ancient origins. Much of the protecting walls have remained intact including Fort Carre, which is one of the most beautiful examples of military architecture in Europe. Today the port is taken over by an incredible array of mega yachts. The historic town center is full of pretty squares and narrow streets, ideal for wandering and people-watching. Make sure you check out the cathedral and the old ramparts. Nearby Cap d'Antibes, there is a small peninsula of paradise, you can visit it by taking the sign-posted path following the coastline. The famous "Eden Roc" hotel is at the point of the "Cap". Ask one of the officers to lead a crew shoreside casual hike – you will not be disappointed. If that isn’t appealing, we are certain one of the organized land adventure will be.

Originally a fishing village on the northern coast of the French island, Saint-Florent has become a delightful yachting port to visit. Like similar small ports in the Mediterranean, guests can enjoy sailing, touring, beautiful beaches, and a selection of restaurants, shops and cafes. If you seek historical and cultural experiences, be sure to visit Citadelle Saint Florent, built in the 1400’s to guard the harbor below.

Porto-Vecchio, Corsica is a small port of call in the Corse-du-Sud department of France. The cities popularity increased dramatically since hosting the start of the first stage of the 2013 Tour de France. Just outside of town they have some remarkable beaches. There’s also options for guests to visit Bonifacio as well as the signature golf course Sperone. SeaDream anchors of the harbor and tenders directly to the town center. Water sports will be offered in the morning and afternoon from the marina platform (weather permitting).

Collioure is one of the most picturesque coastal resorts on the Mediterranean coast of southwest France. With the backdrop of the Pyrenees mountains tumbling into the sea, discover its Old Harbor, impressive castle, narrow cobblestone streets, bijou boutiques, a special art trail, and secluded beachess. Collioure was first settled by the Phoenicians and Greeks as a trading port and over time has been occupied by Romans, Arabs, Spaniards, and the French. The Knights Templars built Collioure’s Chateau-Royal in the twelfth century, later used as a residence for the kings of Mallorca. Collioure has long been considered the birthplace of Fauvism, an expressionistic style of painting created by Henry Matisse and André Derain in 1905. Collioure is known for its salted anchovies, which are exported throughout France.

This city in southern France has a long and interesting history, modern history from the mid-1600’s when it was founded as an integral Mediterranean port. In the 1800’s the British attempted to burn down the city, and German troops occupied it in 1944. Visitors to the city can enjoy numerous fine restaurants, a great selection of museums and art galleries, and of course water sports, tours, and excellent sandy beaches.

Nestled along France’s Côte d’Azur, sitting at the Franco-Italian border, is the picturesque town of Menton. Often described as “the Pearl of France,” its sun-kissed terrain and pastel-colored homes constitute photo-worthy moments and a landscape you can admire for days. Interestingly, due to its unique location between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Mention enjoys the longest hours of sunshine in France, which also bears fruit in its signature lemon. Beyond its palm-lined seaside promenade offering sweeping coastal views, Menton boasts bastions, basilicas, museums, designer boutiques, tony cafés, and beautiful botanical gardens and beaches. Discover the touches of twentieth-century artist Jean Cocteau, who in the 1950s adorned the town’s Wedding Hall with Surrealist-inspired frescoes, depicting romance in the mythological figures of Orpheus and Eurydice. While known to few travelers, Menton remains an intriguing bucket-list destination for those who have explored the iconic French Riviera and are seeking a fresh perspective of the coveted coastline.

Villefranche-sur-Mer has been a popular port of call in the French Riviera for cruise ships since the 1980’s. This former Russian Navy Base is a fishing port in the Alpes-Maritimes department of Cote d’Azur, near the French border of Italy, approximately 6 kilometers from Nice. Rich in history, this picturesque tax-free town is filled with colorful villas on hillsides, truly reminiscent of Italian architecture. Great for strolling and hiking, this amazing destination will provide a true feel of the Mediterranean lifestyle, and many wealthy individuals have decided to retire here. The citadel that overlooks the seaside town, Citadella Saint-Elme, has three museums that are free to enter. The historic monument hosts movie nights, concerts, and a wide variety of other local events, and also serves as the town’s City Hall, which was inaugurated in March of 1981. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is also a nearby tourist attraction filled with antique furniture and art, with nine beautiful gardens surrounding the historical place. Dubbed as a part of the “Notable Gardens of France”, there is a rose, stone, Florentine, Spanish, French formal, exotic, Japanese, Provençal and a garden de Sèvres. Every year, The Painters’ Day and Opera Azuriales events are held here as well. Many tourists enjoy snorkeling in the clear, sapphire sea. The beach is jellyfish free, and cobblestone covers the area, so it is advised to keep this in mind when choosing footwear for the day. Villefranche-sur-Mer is a port SeaDream visits on some voyages that also travel to Monte Carlo, Nice, and Saint-Tropez, and is truly an excellent opportunity to take advantage of the Watersports Marina, inclusive in your voyage fare.

This is perhaps one of the most famous beach areas on the Riviera made famous by Bridgett Bardot. SeaDream anchors just off the beach and offers zodiac service (wet landing) to the public drop off area. Most of the famous beach clubs are a short walk. Make certain you remember your euros and credit cards as some of these venues charge hi rates for sunbeds, umbrellas, refreshments and meals. Club 55 and Nikki Beach seem to spark the most interest but there are several others to choose from.

Marseilles is disputed to be the oldest city in France with a history dating back 2600 years. After Paris it is the second largest city and boasts 300 days of sunshine per year. Historically, this was one of the most important trade centers in the Mediterranean. Today the town is bustling with options for visitors. SeaDream’s size allows preferred “parking” very close to town and doesn’t require the need for shuttle bus service like the larger vessels. Several guests will venture off to see Aix en Provence. Others will explore this unique city.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a commune of the Alpes-Maritimes department in southeastern France.

The capital of Corsica, this city is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. This city is home to the second busiest port in France after Marseille, and the island has become a popular resport escape of the well-travelled. Enjoy stolling and people-watching, various museums and markets, cultural tours and charming small shops.

Saint-Malo was heavily bombed during World War II, but you won’t be able to tell as you wander among the painstakingly reconstructed granite mansions of this stately city. Enclosed by a forbidding defensive wall, Saint-Malo was once notorious as a center of corsair mischief but also benefitted enormously from the Atlantic trade after the discovery of the New World, which endowed the city’s merchants with great wealth. The ramparts showcase several impressive gates, including the photogenically squat twin towers of the Grande Porte, and these days the streets enclosed within are alive with a multitude of tempting shops and inviting galleries. Further afield, you’ll discover two of the most magical villages in Brittany. Dinan is a perfect snapshot of the French Renaissance, a cluster of half-timbered homes whose charmingly askew façades are often festooned with blooming geraniums. Along the coast to the east, rising from a tidal flat like a mystical apparition, you’ll find iconic Mont Saint-Michel, possibly the most photographed hamlet in the world. As you ascend winding cobbled lanes to the town’s glorious Benedictine abbey, you’ll appreciate why this medieval jewel has earned UNESCO World Heritage site designation.

Resplendent Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is ideally situated in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, with a plethora of quintessential French towns within easy reach. Discover the breathtaking city of Marseille, whose striped Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is crowned by an immense golden statue of the Virgin Mary and Child. In genteel Aix-en-Provence, follow the trail of Cézanne through leafy squares and promenades sprinkled with bubbling fountains. The artistic ambiance also extends to Cassis, whose evocative landscapes have been immortalized on canvas by the likes of Paul Signac and André Derain. Step back into the medieval era in both La Cadière d’Azur, a delightful cluster of buildings dating as far back as the 9th century, and in tranquil Le Castellet, a diminutive hilltop hamlet that provides expansive views over the surrounding farmland. The region’s terroir is phenomenally suited for winemaking, so you’ll enjoy ample opportunities to try the local varietals, whether visiting one of the area’s many wineries or simply sipping on a refreshing rosé while lounging at an inviting seafront bistro.

Brimming with shops and restaurants, Propriano is a small fishing village that boasts a quaint small town feel with charming streets and alleys in the old town center. Discover the many interesting landmarks in Propriano, including the Church of Notre Dame de la Misericorde. Propriano’s beautiful beaches offer the perfect setting for sun seekers to relax and unwind as well as enjoy water ports. The breathtaking coastline and pleasant atmosphere make this coastal town a must-see destination in Corsica.

Often referred to as “the French Pompeii,” Fréjus bursts with ancient monuments and a history that few seaside towns can claim. Here Julius Caesar founded the first Roman military harbor on the Mediterranean coast, and with its 2,000-year-old history you might just feel like you are in gladiatorial times past. Unmissable sites include the Roman Ampitheater, an impressive oval arena perched on the edge of town; the Roman Aqueduct, where channeled waters from the Foux and Siagnole Rivers meet via massive underground conduits; and the Archaeological Museum, which houses the bust of Hermes, the symbol of Fréjus. Take in the open-air street markets and cafés, brimming with local life and culture, and ask your chef to accent your evening’s meal with local flavors.

Nestled in the Normandy region of northern France, the yachting destination of Honfleur sits on the southern bank of the Seine River estuary, opposite Le Havre and west of Rouen. The town’s cobblestone streets, timbered houses, and picturesque harbor—ringed with 15th- and 16th-century buildings, cafes, and art galleries—define this charming medieval gem. Honfleur takes particular pride in its artistic roots; Impressionist Claude Monet’s mentor Eugène Boudin was born here, and Monet would often set up his easel at the Ferme Saint-Siméon on the hill above Honfleur to capture the light as it reflected off the waters of the Seine.

This beautiful coastal town with a handful of harbors is located at the mouth of the Pouldavid River, an estuary on the southern shore of Douarnenez Bay. The opportune location allows easy access to the area’s untouched beaches, perfect for strolling and lounging. Experience the quaint atmosphere of Douarnenez’s lively quaysides and narrow streets dotted with craft workshops, fishermen’s cottages, and patisseries.

Few travelers have discovered the small Catalan fishing town nestled between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees. The town’s name comes from Venus (Portus Veneris) and was part of the kingdom of Majorca during the Middle Ages. The natural beauty of Port-Vendres comes alive in its sandy beaches, pebble coves, and many hiking trails, offering views of the Catalan coast and nearby vineyards. You can hike to Fort Saint-Elmo for panoramic views and to learn about the region's military history. Relax and watch fishing boats arrive at port with their daily catch, served up in the town’s many beachfront restaurants. Explore the town’s rich history by visiting the Obelisk, a 100-foot monument in the center of Royal Square—built in1783 to commemorate U.S. independence, supported by France and declared at the Treaty of Versailles that year. Explore the works of Scottish watercolorist Charles Rennie Mackintosh at his namesake museum, or stroll the gardens of the Dynamiterie de Paulilles, a former explosives factory and today a museum and nature preserve.

Sitting pretty on the French Riviera, between Fréjus and St. Tropez and Cannes, the resort town of Saint-Raphaël beckons curious travelers. It’s here that one can explore its gorgeous coastline, dotted with dozens of beaches, including Plage du Veillat, Plage de la Baumette, Plage de Camp Long, and Plage de la Péguière. Stroll its lovely marina and waterfront promenade, dotted with cafés, or hike within its protected natural forests in the Esterel Mountains. Visit the Notre Dame Basilica, a Romanesque-Byzantine style church with a dome that overlooks the town. Those interested in history won’t want to miss the Musée Archéologique de Saint-Raphaël, a museum that includes more than 3,000 archaeological finds, including artifacts from the Paleolithic and Iron Ages. The museum includes crypts, underground passages, and a fortified tower offering panoramic views of Saint-Raphaël.