Charter & Rent a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Viking 80 Convertible: Technical Specifications and Layout
The Viking 80 Convertible is widely regarded as the flagship of the sportfishing world, yet its transition into a luxury motor yacht for Mediterranean cruising is seamless. Built with a resin-infused hull and powered by massive twin engines, it is designed to maintain high cruising speeds even in challenging sea states.
The interior layout is surprisingly spacious for a convertible, featuring a massive salon, a professional-grade galley, and a day head. Below deck, the accommodation is configured to ensure privacy and comfort for overnight guests.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 24.54 Meters (80' 6") |
| Beam | 6.50 Meters (21' 4") |
| Draft | 1.70 Meters (5' 7") |
| Engines | Twin MTU Series 2000 M96L (2,635 MHP each) |
| Cruising Speed | 30 Knots |
| Maximum Speed | 40+ Knots |
| Cabins | 5 Staterooms |
| Berths | 10 Guests (12 for Day Charters) |
| Fuel Capacity | 9,842 Liters |
| Water Capacity | 1,514 Liters |
Why the Viking 80 is Perfect for the Antibes Coastline
Antibes is the yachting capital of the Mediterranean, home to the famous Port Vauban. The Viking 80 Convertible is particularly well-suited for this region for several reasons. Firstly, its relatively shallow draft of 1.70 meters allows it to tuck into shallow anchorages near Plage de la Garoupe or the rocky inlets of the Cap d'Antibes that deeper-keeled displacement yachts simply cannot reach.
Secondly, the sea state in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez or the crossing to Corsica can occasionally become choppy. The Viking 80’s hull is designed for the Atlantic; it slices through the Mediterranean "clapot" (short waves) with ease, providing a much smoother ride at 30 knots than standard flybridge cruisers. This makes it the ideal choice for groups who want to minimize travel time between Cannes and Monaco while maximizing time at anchor.
Charter Pricing for 2026 in Antibes
When you charter a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes, pricing is typically structured around the seasonality of the French Riviera. The 2026 season expects high demand, particularly around the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival in May.
| Season | Daily Rate (From) | Weekly Rate (From) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Season (May & October) | €7,500 | €45,000 |
| Mid Season (June & September) | €8,500 | €51,000 |
| High Season (July & August) | €9,500 | €57,000 |
Note: Prices are base rates and do not include VAT (typically 20%) or the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance).
Curated Itineraries from Port Vauban, Antibes
Starting your journey from the historic Port Vauban allows you to choose between the glitz of the east or the natural beauty of the west. You can view all our available vessels in the region by visiting our boats section.
1-Day Itinerary: The Islands and the Cap
- Morning: Depart from Antibes and cruise around the Cap d'Antibes, viewing the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc from the water.
- Midday: Anchor between Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat (the Lérins Islands). Enjoy a crystal-clear swim and lunch at La Guérite.
- Afternoon: A high-speed run toward the red rocks of the Esterel Mountains for snorkeling in secluded coves.
- Evening: A sunset cruise back to Port Vauban for dinner in the Antibes Old Town.
3-7 Day Itinerary: The Riviera Circuit
- Day 1-2: Antibes to Saint-Tropez. Experience the legendary beach clubs of Pampelonne Beach and the nightlife of the port.
- Day 3: Porquerolles. Head further west to the Golden Islands for white sand beaches and turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean.
- Day 4-5: Monaco and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Cruise east past Nice to anchor in the deep bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, then dock in Port Hercules, Monaco.
- Day 6-7: The Italian Border. Visit Menton and cross into San Remo for authentic Italian cuisine before returning to Antibes.
Logistics: Marinas and Berthing in Antibes
Renting a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes usually centers around Port Vauban, the largest marina in Europe. If you are arriving by private jet at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, Antibes is a mere 20-minute transfer away. For those staying in luxury villas on the Cap d'Antibes, the yacht can often pick up guests at the Port de l'Olivette or via tender at designated hotel jetties.
During the peak months of July and August, berthing in Antibes should be secured months in advance. The Viking 80's beam of 6.5 meters is substantial, so it requires a specific berth size that accommodates its wide "sportfish" profile. For more information on the best ports in the area, explore our destinations guide.
What is Included in Your Charter?
Understanding the cost structure is vital when you rent a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes. Most luxury charters operate under MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) terms.
- Included: The yacht hire, the professional crew (usually a Captain and a Stewardess/Deckhand), and the yacht's insurance.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): This is typically 30-35% of the charter fee. It covers fuel, food, beverages, and berthing fees. Any unused portion is refunded at the end of the trip.
- VAT: Value Added Tax is applicable on the charter fee. In France, this is generally 20%, though certain offshore itineraries may qualify for different rates.
- End Cleaning: Usually included in the base rate, though excessive cleaning may be charged to the APA.
Best Months and Sea Conditions
The optimal window for chartering in Antibes is from late May to late September. During this period, the Mediterranean is generally calm, with water temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C. The Viking 80 is equipped with Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilizers, which are a game-changer for those prone to seasickness, as they eliminate up to 90% of boat roll while at anchor.
If you prefer a quieter experience, September is highly recommended. The crowds have thinned, the water remains warm, and the berthing availability in places like Saint-Tropez is much higher than in August.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is renting a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes suitable for families?
Absolutely. While the Viking 80 is a legendary fishing machine, its interior is as luxurious as any high-end motor yacht. The five-stateroom layout provides ample space for children and adults, and the stable hull design ensures a safe environment for all ages.
What is the fuel consumption when I charter a Viking 80 Convertible in Antibes?
The Viking 80 is built for speed. At a cruising speed of 30 knots, it consumes significantly more fuel than a displacement hull. Expect to use approximately 400-600 liters per hour depending on load and speed. However, its ability to reach destinations quickly often results in fewer engine hours overall compared to slower vessels.
Can we go sportfishing during our Antibes yacht rental?
Yes, many Viking 80s in the region come equipped with outriggers and fighting chairs. The waters off the coast of Antibes and toward the "Canyon des Alpes Maritimes" are excellent for tuna and swordfish, particularly in the late summer months. Please specify your interest in fishing at the time of booking to ensure all necessary permits and tackle are prepared.
How many guests can stay overnight on the Viking 80?
The vessel typically accommodates up to 10 guests overnight in 5 beautifully appointed cabins. For day charters, the capacity is usually capped at 12 guests plus crew to comply with maritime safety regulations in French waters.