Monaco is one of Europe’s most famous yachting hubs. With Port Hercule as its center, the city welcomes both superyachts and smaller rentals. Many travelers choose Monaco yacht rentals to enjoy the French Riviera without the long-term costs of owning a vessel.

The main choice when booking is simple: bareboat or crewed. A bareboat charter gives you control of the yacht. A crewed charter provides full service with a captain and often additional staff.

Both are popular in Monaco, but they offer very different experiences.

What is a Bareboat Charter?

A bareboat charter means renting without a crew. You are responsible for the yacht, from steering to docking.

In Monaco, most bareboat rentals apply to smaller motorboats such as the Bayliner VR5. These are easy to handle but still require some boating knowledge. You may need a license or proof of experience.

With bareboat, you decide the route and timing. You can head to Cap d’Ail, Eze, or Beaulieu at your own pace.

However, you must also manage fuel, docking, and safety. Food and drinks are your responsibility. If weather changes, you handle adjustments.

Bareboat charters suit independent travelers and experienced skippers who want flexibility. But for beginners, the responsibilities can quickly outweigh the fun. Even skilled sailors admit that planning fuel stops, checking weather forecasts, and finding marina berths can be stressful in the Riviera’s busy summer season.

Another point is group size. If you are hosting friends or family, it may be hard to balance sailing with entertaining. You may spend more time focused on logistics than enjoying the coastline.

What is a Crewed Charter?

A crewed charter includes a professional captain and, depending on the yacht, additional staff. This is common for larger yachts in Monaco, such as the Azimut 60 Fly or the Lagoon 39 catamaran.

The captain handles navigation, while the crew provides service. This can include meals, cleaning, and organizing activities.

You don’t need a license. You simply board and enjoy the trip. The captain knows safe anchorages, scenic routes, and the best coastal towns to visit.

Crewed charters are ideal for families, groups, or events. Many visitors choose them because they offer peace of mind and comfort.

The extra staff also brings a level of hospitality that bareboat cannot match. On larger yachts, chefs prepare fresh meals, stewards handle drinks, and deckhands set up water toys. Guests can swim, sunbathe, or relax while everything runs smoothly in the background.

This service is especially valuable during longer cruises. Over a weekend or a week, the crew keeps the trip seamless, leaving guests to focus only on enjoyment.

Main Differences Between Bareboat and Crewed Charters

Here are the key differences:

• Responsibility – Bareboat puts you in charge. Crewed removes the responsibility.
• Privacy – Bareboat offers full privacy. Crewed includes staff but adds comfort.
• Cost – Bareboat seems cheaper but has hidden expenses. Crewed is higher upfront but often all-inclusive.
• Experience – Bareboat requires skill. Crewed requires none.

Your choice depends on whether you value control or convenience.

In Monaco, many visitors lean toward crewed charters. The Riviera is glamorous, ports are crowded, and service is valued. While bareboat is possible, it is less common compared to destinations like Croatia or Greece where bareboat fleets are larger.

Costs: Bareboat vs Crewed in Monaco

Bareboat rentals, such as the Bayliner VR5, start at lower daily rates. But you add fuel, docking, and cleaning costs. A security deposit is usually required.

Crewed rentals, like the Azimut 60 Fly or Pardo 50, include staff and service in the price. Fuel may be extra, but no deposit is required with a captain.

At first glance, bareboat looks cheaper. But for longer trips, crewed often becomes the better value.

Another financial factor is time. With crewed charters, you don’t waste hours arranging supplies or finding berths. The captain organizes everything, allowing you to maximize your time at sea. For many travelers, this efficiency is worth the cost difference.

Convenience with Crewed Monaco Yacht Rentals

Crewed Monaco yacht rentals are effortless. From departure at Port Hercule to docking back at night, everything is handled.

The captain manages routes, safety, and timing. The crew serves drinks, meals, and keeps the yacht organized. You simply enjoy the Riviera.

This convenience is important during busy summer months when ports are crowded. Captains know how to secure space and avoid delays.

For celebrations, family trips, or corporate outings, crewed charters deliver comfort without stress.

Guests often mention that the crew makes the trip memorable. From serving champagne at sunset to arranging a swim stop at Cap Ferrat, they elevate the experience.

Yacht Rentals Available in Monaco

Monaco offers a wide selection of yachts :

• Bayliner VR5 Cuddy – 21 ft, available bareboat or with skipper. Great for couples or small families.
• Azimut 60 Fly – 57 ft motor yacht with captain. Luxury cruising for groups up to 10.
• Lagoon 39 Catamaran – Spacious sailing catamaran, up to 15 guests, crew included.
• Olivier Racoupeau 31m Catamaran – Full crew, jacuzzi, and premium features. Designed for luxury escapes.
• Pardo 50 – Modern 52 ft open yacht with captain. Stylish option for Riviera day trips.
• Fjord 42 Open – Scandinavian design, 48 ft motorboat, captain included. Smooth sailing with stabilizer.
• Princess V40 – Compact 43 ft motor yacht, ideal for intimate groups.
• Pursuit 3400 Express – 36 ft motorboat, available with or without captain. Good for fishing and cruising.

This range makes Monaco unique. Visitors can rent anything from small boats to superyachts depending on their budget and plans.

Which Charter is Right for You?

The decision depends on skills, budget, and style.

Choose Bareboat If:

• You have boating experience.
• You want full control.
• You prefer a smaller vessel.

Choose Crewed If:

• You want comfort and service.
• You have no boating license.
• You are hosting a group or event.
• You value stress-free sailing.

For most visitors, crewed Monaco yacht rentals are the preferred option. They balance safety, service, and style.

Planning Your Monaco Yacht Experience

Whether you choose bareboat or crewed, Monaco offers yachts for every plan. Bareboat gives freedom for small day trips. Crewed delivers luxury for Riviera cruising.

With options ranging from budget-friendly Bayliner boats to superyachts with full staff, Monaco caters to every level of traveler.

Your choice is simple: do you want the independence of steering yourself, or the ease of full service?

Either way, Monaco yacht rentals ensure your time at sea is memorable.