Cannes Yachting Festival

Best known for hosting incredible social events like the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, the glamorous yacht charter destination of Cannes provides the perfect backdrop to one of Europe’s leading boat shows.

Established in 1977, the Cannes Yachting Festival (CYF) has become one of the most important platforms for builders, designers, and yacht brokers to present a wide variety of boats, ranging from motor and sailing yachts to multihulls, day boats, and tenders.

Divided between two main locations in Vieux Port and Port Canto, there's a seamless flow throughout the clearly zoned exhibits, with ample transportation between the various areas on land and sea. For those wanting to take in the sights along the way, a walk along La Croisette is an enjoyable route boasting staggering views of the show and is just a stone's throw from authentic cafes and premium restaurants.

Home to the showstopping Super Yachts Extension and some of the biggest names in the industry, Vieux Port is the exhibit for you if you're looking for some of the most innovative motor yacht charters operating in the Med.

As one of the oldest marinas to be visited during French Riviera yacht charters, Vieux Port has an undeniable charm and looks truly spectacular with the gleaming array of motor yachts around the pontoons.

Situated across the bay, Port Canto boasts a great selection of specialist areas including a section dedicated to around 55 large second-hand yachts available for both sale and charter, where brokers will be on hand to assist visitors with purchasing and charter inquiries.

Priding itself with the inclusion of multiple yachting niches, those who prefer a relaxing sailing yacht charter will revel in an exhibit hosting the number one fleet in the world for large sailing yachts, including nearly 120 new sailing yachts.

Introduced for the 2024 edition, a new marina was introduced between the Sailing and Yacht Brokerage & Toys sections to showcase new motor boats measuring up to 39ft (12m), marking the first time that boat charters of this size are displayed on the water at this yacht show.

Welcoming almost 700 boats each year ranging from 16 - 164ft (5 - 50 m), with approximately 200 of the attending fleet making their global or show debut, the six-day event is renowned for unveiling the latest luxury charter yachts and presenting visitors with multiple niches that cater to every desire and requirement.

Offering access for general and VIP admission, the Cannes Yachting Festival operates on an e-ticket system which is pre-bookable online.

Welcoming around 55,000 visitors each year, the Cannes Yachting Festival offers an ideal platform to experience every element of the yachting lifestyle under one roof. 

In addition to the enticing collection of boat charters and exhibitors around the pontoons, prospective France yacht charter guests can also enjoy a range of extra attractions that aim to inspire, educate, and entertain.

Offering premium shopping opportunities, Palais des Festivals is situated just beyond the main entrance to the show, and is a familiar sight for those who have visited Cannes on MIPCOM or MIPIM yacht charters.

The Concours d’Elégance at the Cannes Yachting Festival honors the beauty and craftsmanship of both vintage and contemporary yachts.

Featuring a parade of meticulously restored classic yachts and sleek modern yachts, the enticing event highlights their unique designs along the scenic Bay of Cannes. Expert judges assess the participating yachts based on criteria such as design, restoration quality, originality, and elegance, with awards presented in various categories.

A boat show would not be complete without a range of the latest tenders and toys and Cannes doesn't disappoint. Boasting a dedicated zone in Port Canto, visitors to the Cannes Yachting Festival can explore the latest toys and learn how to hone their skills.