Cannes Yachting Festival 2026: Europe's Largest In-Water Boat Show - Journal By Yatco
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.
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.
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