Living near Montpelier means easy access to beautiful waterways, perfect for a day of fun on a jet ski or exploring on a motorboat. But whether you're a seasoned boater or just starting out, navigating rentals, storage, and permits can feel overwhelming.

This post is your one-stop shop for everything you need to get out on the water! We'll explore some of the best places to rent jet skis and motorboats near Montpelier, recommend a secure and convenient marina for storing your own boat, and point you in the right direction for obtaining the necessary permits.

Get ready to make a splash – let's dive in!

What licenses do you need for motorboating on the sea?

For motorboating and Jet skiing on the sea in France, you'll need a Permis Plaisance Option Côtière (Coastal Pleasure Boat License) if your boat's motor exceeds 6 horsepower (4.5 kW). This license allows you to operate the boat within 6 nautical miles (approximately 11 km) from the coast.

If you plan to venture further out or operate a more powerful boat, you might need additional licenses like:

Permis Mer Côtier (Coastal Sea License): This license is required for boats with motors exceeding 50 horsepower (37 kW) or for nighttime navigation.
Permis Mer Hauturier (Offshore Sea License): This license is for navigating on the high seas and covers all types of boating activities.

If your boat license has been obtained in a member country of the European Union, it will be valid in French waters. You will also have to justify a Restricted radiotelephonist certificate or an equivalent title.

If you have been awarded outside the EU, you will have toapply for a French boat license through the usual process of taking a theoretical and practical exam. Some sailing schools may offer expedited courses for experienced boaters.

If you own a US boating license:

While some countries have reciprocal agreements for boat licenses, the US and France do not. This means your US boating license is not automatically valid in France.

Coastal Permit:

Alice permis bateau: Provides the coastal permit (permis bateau) required to operate a boat in France. This is important to consider if you plan on renting a boat without a skipper.

Boat Rental Companies in the Montpellier Area:

O boat Grau du roi: Rents boats in the Grau du Roi area, located near Montpellier. They likely offer a variety of boats for cruising, fishing, or exploring the coastline.
Rivage port camargue: Rents boats in Port Camargue, a marina close to Montpellier known for its watersports activities. They likely have a range of boats available, from sailboats to motorboats.