If you’re new to the yachting industry or simply looking for work between jobs, finding the right accommodation in Antibes is essential. Antibes, nestled in the French Riviera, is a well-known hub for yacht crew due to its proximity to major marinas like Port Vauban and various yacht agencies.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different crew house options available, compare prices, and offer insights into why many crew members choose Antibes as their base.
Why Antibes?
Antibes is the heart of the Mediterranean yachting scene, making it the ideal location for crew members seeking jobs. The town has a strong network of yacht recruitment agencies, bustling marinas, and frequent crew meetups. Plus, its reputation for being a yachtie-friendly spot means it’s packed with crew houses, hostels, and shared accommodation options tailored specifically for job seekers.
Living in Antibes provides easy access to:
- Recruitment agencies that specialise in yachting.
- Yacht clubs and networking events.
- Port Vauban, where yachts are frequently docked for maintenance, repairs, or crew changes, offering prime job-hunting opportunities.
What Are Crew Houses?
Crew houses are shared accommodation options specifically designed for yacht crew, usually offering affordable, short-term stays in a communal environment. They’re a popular choice for yachties as they provide an opportunity to network with others in the industry, gain insight from more experienced crew members, and share tips on landing your next job.
Typically, crew houses come with:
- Shared bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Common areas like kitchens and lounges.
- Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
- Central locations close to marinas and yacht agencies.
Examples of Crew House Options in Antibes
There are several crew house options available in Antibes, each with varying levels of comfort, pricing, and amenities. Here’s a look at a few popular choices:
- The Crew Grapevine: Located in central Antibes, this crew house is a favourite among many due to its close proximity to the port and the main strip. It offers dormitory-style accommodation and a communal atmosphere where job-hunting tips are exchanged daily.
- Price Range: Approximately €25–€35 per night depending on the season.
- Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, laundry service, communal kitchen, and lounge.
- The Greenhouse Crew House: Another central location with easy access to Port Vauban. The Greenhouse has a similar vibe to The Crew Grapevine, with an emphasis on community and support for job-hunting crew.
- Price Range: €30–€45 per night.
- Facilities: Shared dorms, communal kitchen, Wi-Fi, and outdoor seating areas.
- The Glamorgan House: This option offers a slightly more luxurious experience with better amenities while still being reasonably affordable. Glamorgan House is closer to a private hostel and offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier crew houses.
- Price Range: €40–€55 per night.
- Facilities: Private and shared rooms, kitchen, Wi-Fi, laundry, and garden space.
The Benefits of Crew Houses
Crew houses aren’t just affordable—they also foster a sense of community that is crucial in the yachting industry, where networking often leads to job opportunities. Additionally, you can exchange experiences with other crew members who may have helpful tips or know of yachts that are hiring.
Crew houses are often located in the most convenient parts of Antibes, typically close to the marinas and major transport links. This allows crew members to easily attend job interviews, meet recruitment agents, and be on call for any last-minute yacht jobs.
Airbnb Options in Antibes
In addition to crew houses, Airbnb is another popular accommodation option. Many crew members opt for Airbnb rentals when they want more privacy or are staying in town with friends. Airbnb offers more flexible living arrangements, allowing you to choose between entire apartments, private rooms, or shared spaces.
Airbnb Pricing Comparison
Prices on Airbnb vary significantly depending on the time of year, location, and type of accommodation. Here are some examples:
- Entire Apartment (Off-Peak Season):
- Price: €60–€90 per night for a small studio or one-bedroom apartment close to Port Vauban.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, private bathroom, and Wi-Fi.
- Private Room in a Shared Apartment (Off-Peak Season):
- Price: €30–€50 per night.
- Amenities: Shared living spaces, kitchen, and bathroom.
- Entire Apartment (Peak Season – Summer):
- Price: €100–€150 per night.
- Amenities: Typically the same as off-peak, but the proximity to beaches and the Old Town can push prices up.
- Private Room in a Shared Apartment (Peak Season):
- Price: €50–€70 per night.
Price Variations: Seasonality in Antibes
Accommodation prices in Antibes fluctuate throughout the year, with the summer season (May to September) being the most expensive due to the influx of tourists and the yachting high season. Winter months (November to March) are far more affordable, making them a great time for crew members who want to save money while job hunting.
For example:
- Crew Houses in Winter: €25–€30 per night.
- Crew Houses in Summer: €40–€50 per night.
- Airbnb Private Room in Winter: €30–€40 per night.
- Airbnb Private Room in Summer: €50–€70 per night.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Accommodation for You
Whether you choose a crew house or an Airbnb in Antibes depends on your budget, length of stay, and desire for community. For new yacht crew, crew houses offer an unbeatable mix of affordability, camaraderie, and proximity to job opportunities. On the other hand, if you’re seeking more privacy or are travelling with friends, Airbnb could be a better fit, though often at a higher price point, especially in the summer.
Ultimately, Antibes remains a fantastic place to base yourself if you’re looking to secure a job in yachting. Its strong crew house network, central location in the yachting industry, and community spirit make it one of the best places to start or continue your yachting career.
So, pack your bags, book your stay, and immerse yourself in the vibrant yacht crew culture that Antibes has to offer!
Looking for more information on crew life in Antibes? Check out CrewPass for helpful resources on finding your next job in yachting.
