Publication date: 06/27/2025
The Camargue: a magnificent region to explore by water
Situated between the Gulf of Aigues-Mortes and the Gulf of Fos, the Camargue is a French national nature reserve spanning nearly 150,000 hectares. Nestled between the branches of the Rhône, this region forms a triangular delta that opens onto the Mediterranean Sea – a meeting point of freshwater and saltwater.
Aboard a boat, the Camargue holds many surprises. With almost 80 kilometres of coastline, canals, ponds and marshes, the region offers boaters a wide variety of sailing options. Whether in inland or coastal waters, the natural and man-made waterways allow for easy navigation at the heart of the reserve.
Unlike the busy French Riviera, the Camargue offers a truly authentic, peaceful and unspoilt environment. Whether you’re drawn to gentle cruising, birdwatching, or cultural and historical exploration… we’re sure you’ll fall in love with this sailing destination.
The best season for a cruise in the Camargue
While the Camargue can be explored by boat all year round, some seasons are particularly well suited to sailing.
Sailing in the Camargue in spring
From March to June, spring offers mild weather, abundant wildlife and blooming nature. Tourist numbers remain low. At this time of year, the flower-lined canals are especially pleasant, and the frequent views of horses in the fields are a real treat.
Exploring the Camargue by boat in autumn
In September, October and November, temperatures remain pleasant and the light softens again after the summer. It’s also bird migration season, often providing spectacular sights.
Of course, winter sailing is possible too – with plenty of sunny days – as is sailing in summer. However, in July and August, you can expect higher tourist numbers, intense heat, and frequent strong winds – especially the Mistral. During this period, early morning or late afternoon sailing is recommended!
The most beautiful cruises to take in the Camargue
The Camargue is ideal for a wide range of boating itineraries – whether you’re seeking short or long cruises, on rivers or at sea.
Coastal cruising along the Camargue
In terms of coastal cruising, the Camargue boasts several lovely stopover spots to visit by motorboat or sailboat: Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Le Grau-du-Roi…
From east to west or west to east, the Camargue coastline offers multiple options for cruising along beaches, wetlands, lagoons and dunes – depending on your preferences and sailing plans.
Cruising the Rhône to Sète Canal
Another popular route is the Rhône to Sète Canal – a major waterway through the Camargue, stretching nearly 100 kilometres and constructed nearly 250 years ago!
The canal connects Beaucaire to the Étang de Thau. Winding through many local lagoons – such as Ingril, Vic, Pierre Blanche, Arnel, Prévost and Or – it offers a wonderful way to experience the Camargue’s diverse landscapes and to follow the historic trade route that once connected agricultural lands with historic towns.
Cruising the Rhône to Sète Canal by boat is a great opportunity to explore the region’s salt marshes and visit destinations such as Aigues-Mortes, Le Grau-du-Roi, Palavas-les-Flots, the island of Maguelone and its ancient cathedral, and Frontignan with its swing bridges.
Heading towards the Canal du Midi
From the Camargue, boaters can easily reach the Canal du Midi. It begins in Sète and travels inland toward Béziers and then Toulouse. From there, the Canal de Garonne continues the journey all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Thanks to its well-maintained locks and clear signage, the Canal des Deux-Mers – linking the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic – offers a long but accessible river cruise, even for less experienced crews.
A region full of activities for all visitors
Cruising the Camargue with family or friends gives you access to many experiences:
- Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the walking trails that cross the region. Running along the canals and across the land, these paths offer stunning views of marshes, rice fields and manades – free-roaming herds of bulls, cows or horses.
- From their mooring location, boaters can also hire bikes to explore the countryside and nearby villages via dedicated cycle paths. For example, Aigues-Mortes is a well-preserved medieval town still surrounded by its original ramparts. To explore more of the Camargue on land, you can also head to Arles – a City of Art and History, renowned for its Roman heritage.
- The Camargue is also a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts: those passing through the nature reserve can visit the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park, which hosts hundreds of migratory birds. Horse lovers will enjoy guided horseback rides through the salt marshes.
- Finally, at the western edge of the Camargue lies Le Grau-du-Roi – a seaside resort with beaches and a range of watersports. The towns of Sète and Frontignan are steeped in maritime tradition and offer a warm, festive atmosphere with local markets, festivals and picturesque harbours.
Port Napoléon: a perfect base for sailing in the Camargue
As part of the Port Adhoc network, Port Napoléon marina is located in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône – at the eastern edge of the Camargue. Its location provides direct access to both the Rhône River and the sea, making it an ideal base for river or coastal cruising.
With over 1,200 berths – both in afloat and ashore – this Camargue marina welcomes boaters from across Europe who wish to enjoy the region in all seasons. Motorboat and sailboat owners appreciate the port’s modern infrastructure and high-quality services.
In our opinion, it’s the perfect home port for anyone wishing to make their Camargue cruise a truly memorable experience aboard their own vessel.
“I left Carry, where I kept my boat, and came to this little port in the Camargue. Port Napoléon – top notch!!! Paradise: the team is brilliant, I’m so happy. The Camargue is a must-see, you’ve got to visit it if you never have.”
Malory Monnet – Google Review, 2022
Don’t own a boat yet? 💡
Several brokers are also based at Port Napoléon! They can offer you a wide selection of boats suited to sailing in the region.
Interested in sailing in the Camargue and want to learn more about our local marina? Get in touch with our team and get all the answers you need!
