The Cannes Yachting Festival, Europe’s largest boat show, will take place on the Côte d’Azur from September 9 to 14. What delights will it offer to sea enthusiasts this year?
September marks the season of Europe’s top yacht shows. And while the Genoa International Boat Show (held in 2025 from September 18–23) is known for its accessibility, and the Monaco Yacht Show (September 24–27) represents the pinnacle of luxury, the Cannes Yachting Festival strikes a perfect middle ground. What’s more, it boasts the widest selection: on both land and water, visitors can see 700 motor and sailing yachts ranging from 5 to 50 m in length.
Since its founding in 1977, the Cannes Yachting Festival has brought together not only shipbuilders — who get a chance to showcase their latest models — but also charter companies, brokers, marine equipment manufacturers, makers of “water toys,” fashion and accessories designers, watch and jewelry brands, and even artists and sculptors whose work draws inspiration from the sea.
All of this unfolds in the glamorous atmosphere of the French Riviera, which lends every event the charm of a luxury getaway. While exploring the yacht show, visitors can also indulge in gourmet dining, enjoy high-end shopping, and get a taste of Cannes itself, as the exhibition venues are spread across various parts of the city.
Motor yachts are showcased in the Vieux Port (also known as Port Saint-Pierre, after the promenade that borders it), nestled at the foot of Le Suquet hill and surrounded by the historic district. A wide array of vessels — from multi-deck superyachts to smaller day boats — are moored stern-to-shore, allowing guests easy access for spontaneous sea trials. Here, you’ll also find houseboats, mini-submarines, water scooters, and a variety of gadgets for water sports and entertainment. Nearby, in the Palais des Festivals, the Luxury Gallery opens its doors, where prestigious brands present their finest creations and daily fashion shows bring haute couture to the docks.
The sailing sector is located in Port Pierre Canto, situated at the eastern end of the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette. By land, it’s nearly two kilometers from the Vieux Port; by sea, just one — and for festival guests, water shuttles are provided, offering scenic views of the city along the way.
In 2024, a new dock was opened at Pierre Canto, and the harbor as a whole can now accommodate up to 600 vessels ranging from 4 to 90 m in length. This year, the show will feature more than 120 sailing yachts between 10 and 33 m, and visitors will have the opportunity to test sail the newest models in nearby waters.
Listing all the debuts planned for the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival is nearly impossible — dozens are expected, including several world premieres. Among them are the 23.98-meter A80new from Arcadia Yachts, featuring solar panels and fold-out beach club platforms; the new 14.64-meter flagship from Apreamare, the Gozzo 48 Cabin, with an enclosed saloon inspired by traditional gozzo Sorrentino boats; and the 14-meter Superfast 46 catamaran from VisionF Yachts, capable of reaching a staggering 80 knots.
In addition to standard admission, the organizers offer premium ticket packages. For example, an electronic VIP ticket includes fast-track entry, access to VIP clubs in both ports, free parking, VIP water shuttles between venues, and concierge services. The Platinum e-ticket includes all of the above plus: helicopter transfer from the airport directly to the show, a private guided tour by boat, and a gourmet lunch at either the Panoramic or Skipper restaurant.
Photo: Shutterstock.com, press-office
