Hyeres to Golfe Juan by boat

Pilotage Plan: From Hyères to Golfe Juan

Overview

Your journey from Hyères to Golfe Juan will take you through the stunning surroundings of the French Riviera, featuring picturesque coastal towns, impressive landmarks, and sheltered bays. This route is ideal for experienced cruisers seeking a blend of beautiful vistas and safe navigation, keeping a close eye on both hazards and local regulations.

Departure Point: Hyères, FR

Start Location: Hyères is well-known for its charming old town and proximity to the Îles d'Or, which are a great distance away if you decide to explore. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is prepared—double-check fuel levels, chart accuracy, and necessary safety equipment.

Route Overview

1. Navigating Along the Coast
   After leaving the harbor at Hyères, steer your vessel towards the east. You’ll be paralleling the coastline, providing excellent views of the coastal towns and beautiful Provençal landscapes. Use maps and maintain a lookout for local fishing boats and any pleasure craft.
2. Hazards to Watch For
   Keep a close watch on the numerous rocks and shallow areas along the route, especially around the Cap des Mèdes and the Porquerolles Islands. It is advisable to consult updated navigational charts to avoid obstructions. Tidal movements can complicate navigation near these areas, so timing your passage is key.
3. Bays and Shelters Along the Way
   Calanque de Port d’A (8 nautical miles from Hyères): This lovely calanque is a perfect spot to anchor if the weather begins to turn. Its clear waters provide an excellent opportunity for swimming or snorkeling.
   Anse de la Cabasse: Further along the route, pay special attention to this sheltered bay. It offers refuge from strong winds and swells making it an ideal pit stop to regroup.
   Crique de l’Anse du Far: Small and often less crowded, this is a peaceful natural harbor if bad weather strikes.
4. Points of Interest
   Porquerolles Island: If time permits, consider spending a leisurely day exploring Porquerolles. It’s filled with sandy beaches, beautiful hiking trails, and local dining options.
   Cap d'Antibes: As you approach Golfe Juan, you will see the famous Cap d'Antibes. Its iconic lighthouse is a recognized landmark and, for history enthusiasts, the nearby Hotel Negresco is a point of interest.

Navigational Aids

Lighthouses: Pay close attention to the lighthouses along the coast, particularly those at Cap de l’Aigle and the Punta de Montredon, which will guide you during your passage.
Markers and Buoys: Make sure to identify any special markers indicating commercial shipping lanes and keep adequate distance from these to avoid conflicts.

Regulations and Local Considerations

1. Speed Limits: Be aware of local speed limits enforced near marinas and docking areas, particularly in narrow or crowded waterways.
2. Environmental Regulations: Maintain an eco-friendly approach; use designated waste disposal stations in marinas and avoid anchoring on sensitive seabeds.

Arrival at Golfe Juan

Your approach to Golfe Juan will lead you into a bustling marina, famed for its vibrant atmosphere and strategic position near Cannes. This area is not only a great final destination but also serves as a launch point for further exploration of the French Riviera.

Conclusion

This route from Hyères to Golfe Juan is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and tranquility, catering especially to seasoned cruisers. While you’ll need to navigate with care and stay vigilant about local conditions, the stunning views and charming stops make it a memorable experience. Ensure you have essential navigation apps installed such as savvy navvy, Navionics, and Windy to keep you informed about weather and navigation decisions while underway. Keep your safety equipment up to date and respect local regulations, and you're sure to have a delightful day out on the water. Enjoy your voyage!