Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 Guide

Cannes Yachting Festival 2026: Europe's Largest In-Water Boat Show - Journal By Yatco Home > Cannes Yachting Festival 2026: Europe's Largest In-Water Boat Show Cannes Yachting Festival 2026: Europe's Largest In-Water Boat Show Written by James Smith The 49th edition of the Cannes Yachting Festival brings 700 boats to the French Riviera, with sea trials, the annual Concours d'Élégance, and the glamour of the Côte d'Azur. Jan 6, 2026 Where Excellence Meets the Mediterranean The Cannes Yachting Festival returns to the French Riviera from 8–13 September 2026 for its 49th edition, kicking off the yacht show season in spectacular fashion. Founded in 1977, this true celebration of excellence brings together nearly 700 boats from 5 to 50 metres, making it Europe's largest in-water boat show and a fixture of the global yachting calendar. Located on the two ports of Cannes—the Vieux Port and Port Canto—the festival welcomes visitors in an exceptional environment stretching from one end of the famous Croisette to the other. With 650 exhibitors and nearly 55,000 visitors expected, the city of Cannes transforms into the world capital of yachting for six remarkable days. Two Ports, Countless Possibilities Vieux Port, nestled beneath the historic Suquet district, serves as the main hub of the show, hosting motor yachts on display including an impressive fleet of superyachts ranging from 25 to 55 metres at the prestigious Superyacht Extension. The 2026 edition will display an eclectic mix of yacht styles, from sleek sports yachts and sophisticated flybridge yachts to trawlers. Port Canto, positioned on the opposite side of the bay, showcases the world's leading fleet of large sailing yachts alongside the Yacht Brokerage section and the popular Tenders and Toys area. The opportunity to take sea trials on various motor yachts makes this an essential stop for serious buyers looking to experience vessels firsthand. The Glamour of the Côte d'Azur Beyond the impressive array of yachts, visitors can enjoy the annual Concours d'Élégance, presenting a breathtaking procession of vintage and modern yachts gliding through the scenic Bay of Cannes. The Luxury Gallery within the Palais des Festivals offers high-end merchandise and curated exhibitors, while live demonstrations showcase the latest watersports equipment. The Innovation Route highlights eco-efficient solutions from exhibitors at the forefront of the ecological transition, reflecting the industry's commitment to more responsible yachting. In Cannes, as on the French Riviera as a whole, beauty is not separate from life but an integral part of it. Explore Topics Explore Topics Featured Posts Andrew Cardwell | Cybersecurity for the Modern Superyacht Operational insight. Earned credibility. Security built for the real world. Andrew Cardwell | Cybersecurity for the Modern Superyacht Operational insight. Earned credibility. Security built for the real world. JQ Louise | Writer, Editor "We find out what's actually worth it — from the people who know best." The editorial principle behind a platform built on access and credibility. JQ Louise | Writer, Editor "We find out what's actually worth it — from the people who know best." The editorial principle behind a platform built on access and credibility. Georges Bourgoignie | Senior Sales Broker at Fraser Yachts, Fort Lauderdale With decades of experience listing and selling yachts, Georges has built his reputation around a client first approach. The result has been lasting client loyalty, reflecting a philosophy he has held since 1989 and one recognised by Fraser Yachts. Georges Bourgoignie | Senior Sales Broker at Fraser Yachts, Fort Lauderdale With decades of experience listing and selling yachts, Georges has built his reputation around a client first approach. The result has been lasting client loyalty, reflecting a philosophy he has held since 1989 and one recognised by Fraser Yachts. Michael T. Moore | Maritime Lawyer Michael T. Moore advises yacht owners, operators, and institutions on maritime law, complex litigation, and regulatory matters across the global superyacht industry. Michael T. Moore | Maritime Lawyer Michael T. Moore advises yacht owners, operators, and institutions on maritime law, complex litigation, and regulatory matters across the global superyacht industry. Quentin Bourgeois | Yacht Broker at Fraser Yachts Monaco Understanding what makes a yacht work operationally is the foundation for knowing what makes it valuable commercially Quentin Bourgeois | Yacht Broker at Fraser Yachts Monaco Understanding what makes a yacht work operationally is the foundation for knowing what makes it valuable commercially Andrew Cardwell | Cybersecurity for the Modern Superyacht Operational insight. Earned credibility. Security built for the real world. JQ Louise | Writer, Editor "We find out what's actually worth it — from the people who know best." The editorial principle behind a platform built on access and credibility. Georges Bourgoignie | Senior Sales Broker at Fraser Yachts, Fort Lauderdale With decades of experience listing and selling yachts, Georges has built his reputation around a client first approach. The result has been lasting client loyalty, reflecting a philosophy he has held since 1989 and one recognised by Fraser Yachts. Michael T. Moore | Maritime Lawyer Michael T. Moore advises yacht owners, operators, and institutions on maritime law, complex litigation, and regulatory matters across the global superyacht industry. Featured Posts Captain Liam Devlin opens up about who inspired them in the industry As part of our survey of Captains we asked who in the industry has inspired them. We tracked down some of the Captains at MYS to dig a little deeper! Here is Captain Liam Devlin’s account of a moment from a Captain Captain Liam Devlin opens up about who inspired them in the industry As part of our survey of Captains we asked who in the industry has inspired them. We tracked down some of the Captains at MYS to dig a little deeper! Here is Captain Liam Devlin’s account of a moment from a Captain The IYC Captain's Forum discusses the Leading edge of Yacht Builds A candid look at what today’s captains see coming next in yacht design and innovation. The IYC Captain's Forum discusses the Leading edge of Yacht Builds A candid look at what today’s captains see coming next in yacht design and innovation. Who’s My Biggest Inspiration in the Yachting World? - Alistair Best Alistair Best reflects on the figure who shaped his career in yachting, and why that influence now drives him to imagine his own next chapter. Who’s My Biggest Inspiration in the Yachting World? - Alistair Best Alistair Best reflects on the figure who shaped his career in yachting, and why that influence now drives him to imagine his own next chapter. The Revolving Door of Junior Crew Why do most junior crew leave within 18 months? A new Quay Crew survey of 100 captains reveals the true cost of turnover. They arrive fresh-faced and eager, but most junior crew don’t last long. The Revolving Door of Junior Crew Why do most junior crew leave within 18 months? A new Quay Crew survey of 100 captains reveals the true cost of turnover. They arrive fresh-faced and eager, but most junior crew don’t last long. From Helm to Haven: The Amalfi Stay Captains Swear By Anantara Convento di Amalfi offers captains a serene retreat above the Tyrrhenian Sea, blending heritage, luxury, and wellness for the perfect reset. From Helm to Haven: The Amalfi Stay Captains Swear By Anantara Convento di Amalfi offers captains a serene retreat above the Tyrrhenian Sea, blending heritage, luxury, and wellness for the perfect reset. Why Captains Should Unwind at Nay Palad Hideaway in the Philippines Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao is a barefoot-luxury retreat where captains can truly unwind, with all-inclusive service and serene island beauty. Why Captains Should Unwind at Nay Palad Hideaway in the Philippines Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao is a barefoot-luxury retreat where captains can truly unwind, with all-inclusive service and serene island beauty. Captain Liam Devlin opens up about who inspired them in the industry As part of our survey of Captains we asked who in the industry has inspired them. We tracked down some of the Captains at MYS to dig a little deeper! Here is Captain Liam Devlin’s account of a moment from a Captain The IYC Captain's Forum discusses the Leading edge of Yacht Builds A candid look at what today’s captains see coming next in yacht design and innovation. Who’s My Biggest Inspiration in the Yachting World? - Alistair Best Alistair Best reflects on the figure who shaped his career in yachting, and why that influence now drives him to imagine his own next chapter. The Revolving Door of Junior Crew Why do most junior crew leave within 18 months? A new Quay Crew survey of 100 captains reveals the true cost of turnover. They arrive fresh-faced and eager, but most junior crew don’t last long.