Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 – Cannes, France
Overview
The Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 returns to the glittering Bay of Cannes as Europe’s leading in-water boat show, marking a highly anticipated week for the global marine industry. Spanning across two of the city’s iconic harbors, the Vieux Port and Port Canto, the festival showcases an eclectic collection of nearly 700 boats. From compact day boats and rigid inflatables to majestic superyachts reaching up to 165 feet, the event provides an unparalleled platform for shipyards to debut their latest innovations and world premieres in a sophisticated Mediterranean setting.
The festival is strategically divided to offer a specialized experience for every visitor. The Vieux Port remains the heart of the motorboat industry, featuring prestigious builders and high-performance vessels alongside the “Luxury Gallery” dedicated to craftsmanship and lifestyle. Across the legendary Boulevard de la Croisette, Port Canto hosts the Sailing Area—the largest of its kind globally—as well as the Brokerage and Toys area, where second-hand yachts and the latest nautical gadgets are displayed. This dual-location format allows for a comprehensive look at the diverse world of yachting under the warm autumn sun of the French Riviera.
Beyond the hulls and sails, the 2026 edition continues to emphasize sustainability and technological advancement through its dedicated “Innovation Village.” This area focuses on eco-friendly propulsion systems, sustainable materials, and smart navigation tech that are shaping the future of the oceans. With more than 50,000 visitors expected from over 130 countries, the Cannes Yachting Festival is more than just a marketplace; it is a grand social and professional gathering that celebrates the elegance, freedom, and technical brilliance of life at sea.
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Event Highlights
- Global World Premieres: The festival is the chosen venue for the world’s most famous shipyards to unveil their newest motor and sailing models for the very first time.
- The Sailing Area: Located at Port Canto, this massive dedicated zone features over 120 sailing yachts, making it the most significant on-water sailing exhibition in the world.
- Luxury Gallery: An indoor exhibition space at the Palais des Festivals showcasing high-end brands specializing in jewelry, fashion, watches, and nautical lifestyle accessories.
- On-Water Sea Trials: Many exhibitors offer potential buyers the opportunity to take yachts out into the bay for sea trials, providing a true feel for performance and handling.
Why Attend
This event is ideal for high-net-worth individuals, yachting professionals, and boating enthusiasts who want to see the latest trends in luxury and performance. Attending the Cannes Yachting Festival provides a unique opportunity to compare a vast inventory of boats side-by-side in their natural environment, rather than on a showroom floor. It is the premier destination for anyone looking to purchase a new vessel or explore the burgeoning market of sustainable marine technology.
The benefits of attending include direct access to industry leaders and designers in a relaxed yet highly professional atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the glamorous lifestyle of the French Riviera, networking at elegant evening events or exploring the historic streets of Cannes between yacht tours. It is an immersive experience that blends business with the undeniable charm of the Mediterranean, making it an essential date on the international nautical calendar.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: September 8–13, 2026
- Event Duration: Six days of exhibitions from Tuesday through Sunday
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are sold exclusively online through the official festival website; there are no physical ticket offices at the venue entrances.
- Admission Type: General admission tickets provide access to both the Vieux Port and Port Canto, including the shuttle boat service between the two harbors.
- Ticket Pricing: Single-day tickets start at approximately $34, while two-day passes are priced at roughly $60 per person.
- Special Seating Options: Access to the Panoramic and Skippers restaurants offers reserved seating with elevated views of the marinas, available by reservation.
- VIP Options: Premium VIP and Platinum cards range from $380 to $1,350, offering benefits such as helicopter transfers, private lounge access, and chauffeured car services.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Cannes, France
- Venue Name: Vieux Port and Port Canto
- Google Maps Address: Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France
Worried about accommodation? Hotels near this event sell out quickly, and prices tend to rise fast. Check out these accommodation options:
Contact Information
- Email: cannes@rxglobal.com
- Phone Number: +33 1 47 56 64 79
- Official Website: https://www.cannesyachtingfestival.com/
- Social Media Links:
- https://www.instagram.com/cannesyachtingfestival
- https://www.facebook.com/Cannes-Yachting-Festival-180413645312841/
- https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/cannes-yachting-festival/about/
- https://www.twitter.com/yachtingcannes
- https://www.youtube.com/@Cannesyachtingfestival
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport is approximately 17 miles from Cannes, with direct helicopter and shuttle links available.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: Cannes SNCF Station is centrally located and just a 5-minute walk from the Vieux Port entrance.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: The Express 81 bus runs directly from the airport to Cannes, and local bus line 200 serves the coastal route.
- Parking Availability: Public parking is available at the Palais des Festivals and Pantiero lots, though spaces are extremely limited during the show.
- Directions by Car: Accessible via the A8 motorway (La Provençale), taking the exit for Cannes/Mougins and following signs for the Palais des Festivals.
What is this event?
The Cannes Yachting Festival is an annual international boat show held in the Bay of Cannes, showcasing the latest motor and sailing yachts. It is recognized as Europe’s premier on-water event for vessels ranging from 15 to 165 feet.
The event is split between two ports, connected by a free sea shuttle, to display both new builds and brokerage yachts. It serves as the unofficial start of the Mediterranean boat show season.
Why is it popular?
The festival is popular because it offers the first public look at many of the year’s most important yacht launches and concept designs. Its setting on the French Riviera adds a layer of glamour and prestige that attracts an elite global audience.
Furthermore, the show is famous for its diversity, catering to everything from small electric cruisers to massive multi-million dollar superyachts. The ability to trial boats on the open sea makes it a functional and exciting event for serious buyers.
Tips before you go
- Wear deck shoes or shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as most exhibitors require you to be barefoot to step on board the yachts.
- Use the sea shuttles to travel between the Vieux Port and Port Canto to avoid the heavy traffic on the Croisette and enjoy the view from the water.
- Book your lunch reservations at the on-site restaurants well in advance, as dining spots with a view of the harbor are in high demand.
- Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as you will spend most of your time outdoors on the sunny docks and open decks.
- Download the official festival map onto your phone to easily locate specific shipyards and the shuttle boarding points.
Attendee Experiences
- Walking the docks at sunset with the Riviera hills in the background is the most beautiful way to see these boats.
- The transition between the high-energy motorboats and the peaceful sailing area at Port Canto was a highlight of my trip.
- I was blown away by the innovation in the electric boat section; the future of yachting looks incredible.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What are the opening and closing times for the show?
The festival is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM from Tuesday through Saturday, providing plenty of daylight hours to explore the hundreds of boats on display. On Friday, the show typically extends its hours until 10:00 PM for a special late-night opening featuring illuminated docks and evening events. Sunday is the final day, and the show closes slightly earlier at 6:00 PM to begin the dismantling process.
Is there a shuttle service between the two different ports?
Yes, a free shuttle boat service is provided for all ticket holders to move between the Vieux Port and Port Canto every 15 minutes. This sea link is the most efficient way to travel, as it bypasses the heavy city traffic and offers a scenic view of the yachts anchored in the bay. There are several boarding points clearly marked at each port to ensure a smooth transition for visitors exploring both sides of the show.
Are children allowed to attend the yachting festival?
Children are welcome to attend the festival, and entry is generally free for those under the age of 12 when accompanied by an adult. However, parents should be aware that the docks can be narrow and crowded, and many of the yachts have steep stairs or delicate interiors that may not be ideal for toddlers. It is recommended to bring children who are comfortable with the environment and can follow the safety guidelines on the pontoons.
Is there a specific dress code for visiting the yachts?
While there is no official dress code for general visitors, most people opt for "yachting chic" or smart-casual attire such as linen shirts, summer dresses, and loafers. The most important rule to remember is that almost all yacht captains will ask you to remove your shoes before boarding to protect the expensive teak decks and carpets. Wearing shoes that are easy to take off and put back on will make your experience much more enjoyable.
Can I buy a yacht directly at the show?
Yes, the festival is a primary sales venue, and many transactions for both new and pre-owned yachts are initiated or finalized during the week. Sales representatives and brokers are available at every stand to provide specifications, pricing, and delivery timelines for the vessels on display. If you are a serious buyer, it is often possible to arrange a private meeting or a sea trial to further evaluate a specific boat before making a commitment.
