Port de Fontvieille

Overview

Port de Fontvieille is a modern marina located in Monaco's southwestern Fontvieille district, built as part of the major land-reclamation project completed in the 1980s under Prince Rainier III. Unlike the larger and more prominent Port Hercule in the centre of Monaco, Fontvieille's port serves primarily as a leisure marina for smaller pleasure boats and yachts, offering a quieter, more residential atmosphere.

Facilities and Capacity

The port has 290 berths on five concrete quays and four floating pontoons, with a maximum draught of three metres. Fresh water and electricity (220 V / 380 V) are available on the quays and pontoons, plus showers, toilets, paid Wi-Fi and containers for used oil and batteries; there is no fuel station in Fontvieille itself, so boats refuel at the BP pontoon in Port Hercule. The port is run by the Société d'Exploitation des Ports de Monaco (SEPM), the same operator as Port Hercule: port authority +377 97 77 30 15, VHF channel 9, reception on the Quai Jean-Charles Rey from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm in season, with a watchman around the clock. Speed limit inside the harbour: 3 knots.

A protective breakwater shields the harbour from open-sea swells, creating calm mooring conditions. The marina's relatively compact size and sheltered positioning make it well-suited to day boats, small sailing vessels, and motor cruisers used by Monaco residents.

Surrounding Area

The port is integrated into the broader Fontvieille district, with the waterfront promenade connecting to:

• Fontvieille Shopping Centre and commercial area, directly adjacent
• Fontvieille Park and the Princess Grace Rose Garden, a short walk inland
• Stade Louis II, Monaco's national stadium, visible from the quayside
• The Rainier III Sculpture Trail, a walking path along the harbour edge featuring contemporary art installations

The quayside offers pleasant walking and is considerably less crowded than the Port Hercule area, making it a relaxed spot for a stroll.

Access

Port de Fontvieille is accessible on foot from the Fontvieille commercial centre and park. Bus lines 5 and 6 serve the district. Drivers can use the Fontvieille car parks. Pedestrian paths also connect the port to the Rock of Monaco (Monaco-Ville) via stairways and the public lift system.