La Vie en Rosé!

Rosé is undoubtedly the drink for warm summer days, with its pink hue and delicate palette perfectly complimenting blue skies and sparkling seas. France is known to produce some of the most exquisite wines in the world; from Provence to Bordeaux and Bandol, there are hundreds of unique wines to choose from. This is why we have rounded up a selection of stunning rosés that are suitable for sipping on your fabulous yacht charter, lounging along the Riviera, or to enjoy anywhere across the globe…

CHTEAU ROUBINE – Côtes de Provence Cru Classé
InSpire rosé 2017
Tibouren 90%, rolle 5%, grenache 5%
Medium-pale in colour, with complex sweet, fruity flavours, it is fresh on the palette and has a long finish.

CHTEAU SAINTE ROSELINE – Côtes de Provence Cru Classé
Roseline Chapel 2017
Mourvèdre 55%, cinsault 30%, Grenache 10%, rolle 5%
Incorporates an aroma of spices and exotic fruits, highlighted by lovely acidic notes of grapefruit and pale in colour.

CHTEAU BROWN – Bordeaux Rosé
Rosé 2017
Merlot 100%
A deep pink hue in colour, this wine is dominated by flavours of strawberry, with light hints of vanilla and cinnamon, creating a rich and intense flavour.

BAUDRY-DUTOUR – Chinon
Marie-Justine rose 2017
Cabernet-franc 100%
This deep pink rosé gives notes of sweet fresh fruits make this wine ideal to accompany spicy dishes and fine cured meats.

JOSEPH MELLOT – Sancerre
The Rosé Rabault 2017
Pinot noir 100%
This elegant wine incapsulates floral notes with accents of raspberries, strawberries and redcurrants, giving a delightful flavour of fresh fruit, presented in a medium-pink hue.

DOMAINE DE FONTENILLE – Luberon
Rosé 2017
Grenache 50%, Syrah 20%, Cinsault 20%, Mourvèdre 10%
With delicate flavours of rose and peach, the wine offers a smooth touch and an intense culmination of flavours to match its pale rosy hue.

ÉLIE SUMEIRE – Côtes de Provence Sainte Victoire
Rosé 2017
Grenache 60%, cinsault 30%, syrah 10%
A light freshness with plum notes and a lingering sweetness makes this wine very drinkable; the colour is pale with a coral hue.

ROSELINE – Côtes de Provence
Roseline prestige rosé 2017
Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah
A lively and intense rosé with a freshness associated with the vineyards of Provence, the flavour on the palate is lengthy and extremely pleasant.

DOMAINE DE LA MORDORÉE – Tavel
The rosewood queen 2017
Grenache 60%, Clairette 15%, Syrah 10%, Cinsault 15%, Bourboulenc 5%
This rosé has a strong and intense colour, accompanied by complex floral aromas of white and red flowers and fruits, as well as minty notes, making its finish airy and light.

CHTEAU PILLOW – Côtes de Provence Sainte Victoire
César with Sumeire rosé 2017
Grenache 60%, Syrah 40%
With a pale pink colour and a delicate flavour of citrusy grapefruit and pineapple, this rosé is underpinned by floral notes of carnation and hawthorn.

These delicious rosés are the perfect compliment to a day charter, week-long charter or a corporate event, as you sit on deck; the Boatbookings team would be happy to give recommendations to find you the perfect wine to accompany whatever you choose to do!

Posted on July 16, 2018 by Ben Sutton

Events Not to Miss Along the French Riviera!

The French Riviera has always been a hub of activity with so many exciting events taking place each year. From the glamorous and world-famous Film Festival to the multiple lively Jazz Festivals, the French Riviera truly comes alive during the summer time.

Cannes Lions – 18^th to 22^nd June

Each year, this International Festival of Creativity invites professionals and brands operating in the advertising and creative communications industry to attend talks by recognised individuals from all over the globe, as well as network with one another and even win awards. The Festival runs for 7 days and is the largest gathering of its kind of professionals in this industry! If your company is interested in renting an event yacht for the Cannes Lions, get in touch today.

Les Nuits Carrées – Antibes – 28^th to 30^th June

Les Nuits Carrées is a 3-day long Music event that showcases 8 hours of live music every evening, situated in the stunning amphitheatre of Fort Carrée in Antibes’ old town. With live music genres including Metal, Hip Hop, Electronic and many more, this event is sure to be enjoyable for everyone!

Jazz Festival ‘Jazz à Juan’ – Juan Les Pins – 12^th to 22^nd July

The Jazz à Juan Jazz Festival is an annual music festival held in Juan Les Pins, near Antibes; with New Orleans as its sister city, Jazz is deep-rooted within the town, and Jazz artists from near and far come to play old and new classics for their audience.

Fireworks Festival – Cannes – 13^th to 24^th July

A Boatbookings’ Team favourite, the annual Fireworks Festival in Cannes is an awe-inspiring spectacle that entertains hundreds every year! The displays are put on by Pyrotechnic Teams from all over the world, including home country France, the Philippines, Finland and Argentina. The best way to watch the stunning shows each week is without a doubt on a Day Charter yacht moored in the bay of Cannes; classic Motor Yacht Argo is our recommended choice for a sunset cruise and fireworks show!

Jazz Festival – Nice – 17^th to 21^st July

The Nice Jazz Festival, held annually, is one of the biggest and most prestigious Jazz Festivals in Europe. It remains one of the Riviera’s biggest events; held in the cultural city of Nice, it has had artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles and Louis Armstrong perform. Set in the Jardins des Cimiez, the event features several stages where groups perform for the 8 days of the event.

Les Plages Electroniques – Cannes – 10^th to 12^th August

Les Plages Electroniques is a music festival that takes place on the beaches of Cannes every year – with some huge names such as Kygo, Flume and Jax Jones having been featured and due to play this year, it’s a dance-music lover’s ideal festival! Running over a weekend, from Friday to Sunday, the festival is situated on a secure part of the beach by the Palais des Festivals and has music playing throughout the day and into the early hours of the morning, finishing at 5 am.

International Yacht Festival – Cannes – 11^th to 16^th September

In the sparkling bay of Cannes, nearly 600 yachts are displayed in water and on land either in the Old Port of Cannes or Port Canto. The Yacht Festival is one of the most popular in Europe; some shipyards even offer trips out to sea, so clients can get a real experience of the finest yachts in the market.

One of the best experiences to have on the French Riviera is, without doubt, renting a yacht for a day or a week! At Boatbookings, we have yachts to suit all needs and preferences – simply contact us today or email [email protected] to start planning your trip!

Posted on June 15, 2018 by Ben Sutton

Family Friendly Yacht Spots on the French Riviera

The French Riviera is famous for being sophisticated, glamorous and fast-paced; but it does have a calmer, more family-oriented side too, with activity centres, aquariums and family-friendly beach clubs with play areas, there is something for all ages.

We’ve rounded up a few of the best spots for families with kids so you can enjoy the Riviera to the fullest, with the whole family!

Vegaluna – Cannes

Our go-to beach club in Cannes for family-friendly events has to be Vegaluna. This classic beach restaurant has all the features of a glamorous beach-club on the Croisette but with families at its core. The beach has an extensive play area on the beach with slides, swings and a children’s menu. The seafood dishes at this beach club are fantastic, so the adults can enjoy Ceviche Tuna or Crab salad with a glass of Provence Rosé, whilst the children are entertained!

La Guerite – Île St Marguerite

La Guerite is an incredible restaurant on the larger of the two Lerins Islands, Ile St Marguerite, just off the coast of Cannes. This gorgeous restaurant features al-fresco dining, a beach with sun loungers and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine crafted by chef Yannis Kioroglou. The menu is fairly high-end, however, it is sure to be worth it!

La Croisette, Cannes

The famed Croisette in Cannes is the ideal spot for strolling, people watching and taking in the sights of this buzzing town. It is also great for kids, as there is a permanent mini carnival featuring a carousel, small playground, small carnival games, rides and snack bars – all along the Croisette itself. Just head for the Palais-end of the Croisette.

Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Always a favourite with families, the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco is perfect for a break during the day from the hot sun where you can explore the underwater world of the aquarium, with 6000 specimens of marine life featured – from sharks and starfish to jellyfish and tortoises!

Nice Château

Nice is one of the most historical cities in Southern France, with the picturesque old town, extensive shopping centres in the newer city centre and of course the Promenade des Anglais. A great activity for all ages could be a walk up to the Castle of Nice (or Chateau de Nice), which offers incredible views over all the Riviera’s largest city and port. Often a highlight of visitor’s trips to Nice, the beautiful park with ruins, pines and waterfalls is sure to amaze all ages.

Hopefully the above will have given you a few ideas for your next trip to the Riviera!

If you’re looking for a family day out on the sea, look no further than one of our day charter yachts. This has got to be the ultimate family day out (ok, we’re a little bit biased!) with options for swimming, snorkelling and paddle boarding! Cruise over to a secluded bay and the kids can swim and play with the water toys, whilst the adults lounge on the sunpads an enjoy a well-deserved glass of bubbly!

Contact us today to organise a yacht rental along the French Riviera; we have yachts in all the most popular destinations including Cannes, St Tropez, Monaco and more!

Posted on June 7, 2018 by Ben Sutton

Where We’re Going This Summer

Winter is comfortably behind us, and summer has finally settled in, bringing warmer temperatures and longer days. Here at Boatbookings, we couldn’t be more excited about our upcoming vacations and the boats we’ll be taking to explore undiscovered islands and towns that await! We can plan your charter vacation too; just get in touch and email [email protected] today!

Name: Ben, Charter Broker

Destination: Sardinia

The combination of the breath-taking Tavolara, chic Porto Cervo, the beautiful Maddalena and iconic Bonifacio are unbeatable. Sardinia is discreet and exclusive, the perfect yacht charter destination. I’d combine the quiet anchorages around Porto Pollo with beautiful Port towns like Porto Rotondo and Bonifacio. I’d go for traditional Italian coffee and breakfast at the Cafe du Port (Porto Cervo), then cruise into the Maddalena, swim at Caprera (Cala Coticcio), seafood lunch at La Scogliera (Isola Maddalena north, close to Cala Spalmatore) and then back to Phi Beach Club (Porto Cervo) for sunset. I would stay there, but you could also then go for dinner at Just Cavalli Porto Cervo and then onto Billionaire Club!

Chosen Yacht: PORTHOS SANS ABRI – with a yacht owner that has picked the best crew from his fleet of yachts, you are in excellent hands with Captain Carlo. He knows the area inside out, so whether you’re looking to relax, water sports or party, he will take you to the best spots. Contact: [email protected]

Name: Cordelia, Charter Broker

Destination: Ibiza and Palma

The craziness of Ibiza is a lot of fun and there is an abundance of great beach clubs – Blue Marlin, Juan y Andrea, Lio for the night, then head over to Formentera for a change of scenery. I would be travelling with my family, so would want to visit Mallorca for a quieter time in beautiful bays and the national park Dragonera. The stunning natural beauty of this area is breathtaking and spots are best accessed on a boat, with secluded bays offering us some downtime from the buzzing vibes of Ibiza!

Chosen Yacht: QUASAR – she has the best crew who have been together since last summer; their deckhand loves the water toys, there’s a fabulous chef that makes the best fresh tuna tacos and Captain Ian knows all the more remote spots in Ibiza, not just the obvious places. The yacht is in great condition and has lots of exterior space to kick back and relax as you soak up the sun. Contact: [email protected]

Name: Eve, Product Manager

Destination: Greece

Having spent just a short weekend in Greece last month, I am super keen to go back again. Greek people are all so friendly and welcoming, the food is amazing – particularly the baklava and souvlaki – and the weather is always hot hot hot! In particular, I want to go sightseeing in Athens and visit some of the islands – some more rural like Milos, and some more for partying like Mykonos, as Greece is so versatile!

Chosen Yacht: BARENTS SEA – Barent’s sea has had a full refit and is so modern, gorgeous and has the most amazing stewardess and chef, who will go above and beyond to ensure an exceptional charter. Her interior is stunning, with a true feel of a luxury floating hotel at your own disposal! Contact: [email protected]

Name: Eleanor, Sales and Marketing Executive

Destination: French Riviera

Having moved to the Cannes office for the summer season, I’ve adored being in the South of France – it’s perfect for relaxing on the beach and the French Riviera has all the beach clubs, bars and incredible restaurants you could ask for, so no need to go elsewhere! I would do a Day Charter from Cannes to St Tropez or Monaco during my time off, as I think exploring the coast by yacht is unrivalled. I’d spend the day cruising with the music going and drinks flowing with friends, before having lunch at one of the glamorous Beach Clubs; then swim and use the water toys on board before returning back to Cannes for an evening out at Baôli, our favourite club.

Chosen Yacht: REHAB – she is ideal for cruising along the hotspots of the French Riviera and has plenty of deck space for tanning and chilling with friends. Inside there’s a great seating area, too, for sipping champagne whilst on the water!

Contact us today for more information about any destination you might like to charter in – we can plan an amazing trip for you!

Posted on June 6, 2018 by Ben Sutton

French Riviera 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Juan Les Pins to Santo Stefano Al Mare

Welcoming you on board at 12 noon, your crew will be ready to get you settled in on your yacht. Onc will serve you a delightful lunch on deck as you depart from Juan Les Pins. Cruise towards Roquebrune Cap Martin, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the Medieval Castle and mountains in the distance.

Moor in the bay and take the chance to dive into the stunning blue waters of this natural inlet, or perhaps relax on the foredeck of your yacht as you soak up the afternoon sun, before cruising to Santo Stefano Al Mare. Take the time to freshen up and have a relaxed drink on your aft deck before heading to Aigua Beach and Restaurant for dinner; enjoy some incredible Italian cuisine and stroll the beautiful promenade at dusk.

Day 2 – Santo Stefano Al Mare to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Enjoying a leisurely breakfast on board, leave Italy behind and head back towards France. St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is your next stop, but first, stop along the way to take a dip and try out the water toys on board! For lunch, your chef on board will have prepared a delicious meal for you to enjoy before you arrive at St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Take in the views of Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Eze, mooring near Paloma Beach; head onto land and settle in for the afternoon at Paloma Beach with some cocktails before swimming in the sparkling waters.

Day 3 – Cap Ferrat to Billionaire’s Bay, disembark Juan les Pins

Wake up to a lovely breakfast on board, as you relax whilst cruising towards Billionaire’s Bay for a swim. Head back to Juan les Pins; sadly this is where you must disembark at midday after your incredible charter! Make sure to contact Boatbookings in future and leave us a review on social media; we love to see your pictures.

Posted on June 4, 2018 by Ben Sutton