Renting a boat without licence in Var is a way to enjoy the sea simply, without prior training, while staying within a safe perimeter. The 6 hp limit is the maximum authorized by French law for unlicensed boating — typically small craft 4 to 6 metres long, capable of carrying 4-6 people at reduced speed.
Our partners deliver clean, well-maintained boats with fuel, life jackets, anchor, paddles, sometimes a portable cooler. A short safety briefing is provided at departure (10-15 min): how to start the engine, how to manoeuvre, what to do in case of breakdown, who to call. Typical departure ports: Bandol, Sanary, Hyères, Le Lavandou, Saint-Raphaël.
Recommended itineraries are short and sheltered: Bandol calanques (Port d'Alon, Le Mugel, Coudoulière), Giens peninsula and the salt flats, Cap Nègre and L'Estagnol cove between Lavandou and Cavalaire. Avoid the open sea and stay within a few miles of the coast — this is the unwritten rule for unlicensed boating.
Rates and what's included
Pricing depends on the port and the season:
- Half-day (4h, morning or afternoon): €120-180 depending on port and season.
- Full day (8h, 9am-5pm): €200-300.
- Hourly (1-2h trial): €40-70 per hour.
Included: fuel (within limits — typically 1 full tank, additional fuel charged on return), life jackets, paddles, anchor. Not included: optional cooler bag rental (€10), beach umbrella (€10), water sports gear (snorkels, masks).
In summer, ID + €500-800 deposit (returned at end). Some companies accept the deposit in card pre-authorization without actual charge.
Best departure ports and itineraries
Where to rent and what to see:
- Bandol port: Le Mugel calanque (5 min), Port d'Alon (15 min), Bendor island (10 min). Ideal for short family trips.
- Sanary: harbour, harbour fishing port, anchorage at La Cride. Lighter sea than Bandol.
- Hyères / Giens: Almanarre beach, salt flats, La Madrague. Calmer waters.
- Le Lavandou: Cap Nègre, L'Estagnol cove (protected), beach of Saint-Clair.
- Saint-Raphaël: Estérel calanques (red rocks), Île d'Or (15 min).
- Saint-Tropez area: Sainte-Maxime departure for a tour of the bay, Pampelonne by sea.
Bring: water bottles per person, sun cream, hats, swimwear, towels. Avoid loose objects (phones, glasses) — risk of falling overboard.
Safety: the basics
Without a licence, the rules are strict but simple:
- Stay within 2 nautical miles of a shelter (port, sheltered cove). With a small craft, this covers most calanques and bays.
- Wear life jackets when in motion (mandatory for children always).
- Don't exceed 5 knots in port areas and 6 hp engine power.
- Avoid offshore wind days (>15 knots) — the wind pushes you away from the coast.
- Anchor in 3-5 metres of water in a sheltered cove for a swim.
In case of breakdown: stay calm, call the boat-rental company on the number provided, signal your position. Most companies have a tow boat ready in 30-60 minutes.
Booking tips
A few things to know:
- Book at least 48h ahead in July-August. Last-minute weekends are often sold out.
- The minimum age for unlicensed boating is 16 (some companies require 18).
- Insurance: covered by the rental company, but damage caused by negligence may be deducted from the deposit.
- Combine with another activity: morning boat rental + afternoon lunch at a restaurant we book for you.
We can organize the full half-day (boat rental + lunch on a restaurant terrace + return) for €180-250 per person all included.
Frequently asked questions
Really no licence at all?
Correct. Up to 6 hp (around 7.5 kW), French law allows boating without licence. Above that, the coastal licence is mandatory.
Can children come on board?
Yes — life jackets are provided in all sizes (child, adult). A briefing on staying still during navigation is essential.
How far can we go?
Stay within 2 nautical miles of a shelter. With a small craft, that covers most calanques and bays.
Can we anchor for lunch?
Yes — that's the whole charm. Anchor in 3-5m water in a quiet cove, dive in, picnic. We suggest the best swim spots in advance.
What if the engine breaks down?
Stay calm, call the rental company. Most have a tow boat ready within 30-60 min. Don't panic — you have a paddle and an anchor.