BOAT-COMPARATOR

BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide

Bandol, Sanary and the Embiez by boat: the western Var

Renting a boat in Bandol or Sanary: Bendor island, the Embiez archipelago, La Cride point and the Port d'Alon coves — sheltered, family-friendly waters.

By Clément Lacaille, editor of Boat-Comparator · updated

Between Marseille and Toulon, the gulf of Bandol makes a perfect family playground: short distances, sheltered coves, two islands within license-free range — and some of the most affordable rental fleets on the coast.

Bendor and the Embiez

Ten minutes from Bandol, Bendor island (Ricard left his reconstructed Provençal village there); three miles out, the Embiez archipelago — the Grand Rouveau coves, the turquoise of Cougoussa point, and the little island harbour for lunch. Between the two, La Cride point at Sanary and its snorkelling grounds.

Westwards: Port d'Alon and La Ciotat

The coast towards Saint-Cyr hides the Port d'Alon inlet and La Madrague beach — sand anchorages, umbrella pines, calanques atmosphere without the Cassis crowds. In fair weather, La Ciotat and the Île Verte close the loop.

For whom, for how much

THE waters for first rentals: sheltered from the mistral by Cap Sicié on the eastern side, short distances, plenty of harbours. License-free €90-180, RIB €200-380, motorboat €250-500. Sanary, Bandol and Six-Fours line their fleets up on the same gulf: comparing pays quickly.

The season

April to October without hesitation; in summer the Embiez absorb the crowds well. Watch the easterly, the only wind that chops the gulf — morning remains the best window.

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