BROKERAGE BOATS THE RANGE CHARTER BERTHS LIFESTYLE ASSISTANCE NEWS & EVENTS ABOUT US HOME Loading... MAKE AN ENQUIRY HOME > BERTHS PORT GUIDES BERTHS OVERVIEW BERTHS FOR SALE BERTHS FOR RENT BERTHS There are many myths about berthing in this diverse, cultural and exciting region, so here is our essential guide to what is involved. Most of the ports in the South of France are managed on a lease basis, granted to them by the local council. The lease term in each port varies, so some ports will have a shorter lease period than others – for example in Beaulieu-sur-Mer the lease is due for renewal at the end of 2018 while in nearby Cap d’Ail the lease runs until the end of 2024. If you prefer a permanent base in the South of France, the best way to achieve this is by getting your own berth there. This is done by becoming a shareholder in the port of your choice, which in turn gives you access to a particular berth in that port for the remaining period of the lease. Buying a berth in the South of France: Once you have decided in which port you would like to be permanently based and on which berth, you’ll be purchasing the shares from the person whose boat is on there at the moment. Those shares are bought and sold, not through the port itself, but through local and professional yacht brokers such as Sunseeker. We have four offices between Monaco and St.Tropez, which puts us very closely in touch with the local market and the Capitaneries in each port. Today, we represent close to 100 berths for sale in the region, and you can see that list here. It is updated daily, and now includes a full guide to each port. Prices are set by the dimensions of the berth and the length of the lease, but it is always worth discussing this with us because sensible offers are very often accepted. Once terms have been agreed with the vendor and the port have checked your registry certificate to ensure your boat fits, Sunseeker France will assist the port in the legal transfer of title, and the berth is yours! Renting a berth in the South of France: The Capitanerie in each port will be aware of which boats are coming in and out during the season, and so will offer you the rental of any berth that is not being used by its leaseholder. As priority is always given to the leaseholder, it is generally not possible to arrange a long-term rental in the South of France, but short-term rentals are commonplace. Availability is managed by the Capitanerie in each port, so we maintain a very close relationship with each of them. In many cases, we actually have an office in the port itself, so can often help owners find a solution quickly. So which is best? If you wish to have a base from which to explore the South of France, the favoured solution is to buy a berth. It will be a permanent home for you and your boat, plus your shares will ensure you have some influence in the management of the port. If you are just passing through the Cote d’Azur and do not require a permanent base, then renting a berth from the local Capitanerie in each port is a very workable solution. Whatever your berthing decision, Sunseeker can help you make the very best of your boating activities along the French Riviera. Call us today – we look forward to helping you. CONTACT US IPHONE APP TERMS AND CONDITIONS DOWNLOADS PRESS AREA © Copyright Sunseeker International 2014 — Version 4.11