THE EVENT
The 39th edition of the Cannes Yachting Festival is the yachting season’s most prestigious event and Europe’s largest in-water boating event, showcasing almost 600 of the latest boats from the world’s finest shipyards. The open-air festival is set in the picturesque Vieux Port and Port Pierre Canto, right in the heart of Cannes at each end of the famous Croisette. The brokerage and charter area, Port Pierre Canto, celebrates its 10th anniversary and there will be 50 yachts presented by the most renowned international brokers. It also takes place during the summer, under the sun, in the heart of the French Riviera in charming and beautiful Cannes.
THIS YEAR
This year the festival is launching a new area devoted to luxury brands: La Terrasse. Adjacent to the festival beach, La Terrasse boasts a 180-degree view of the biggest yachts on display at Vieux Port, the Bay of Cannes, the Croisette and the Lérins Islands, and will showcase luxury brands outside the yachting sphere within this dedicated area, from automobiles and jewellery to fine wines and spirits. We are also very excited to announce that German luxury-car manufacturer, Porsche is the new partner and official carrier of the Cannes Yachting Festival, and there are new partnerships with Louis Roederer Champagne and French fashion house Façonnable, in addition to Lise Charmel, Wajer Yachts, Azur Hélicoptère and Fenwick-Tohatsu.
AMBIANCE
Cannes Yachting Festival has the luxury of a beautiful setting, famed for its glitz and glamour. In 2016 there are 175 boat and yacht premieres set to launch. Each year, visitors can’t wait to see the new boats and it is exciting that they are among the first in the world to see them. The show is also renowned for its sea trials, as 80 per cent of the boats are available for test drives outside the port; it really sets the Cannes Yachting Festival apart from any other show. Sailing on board the yacht on the open water creates an atmosphere like no other – it’s a very unique and special experience. For those who stay on the pontoons, the activities on the water creates a spectacular scene.
RUB SHOULDERS WITH
With over 50,000 visitors in 2015, the show attracts luxury yacht and sail boat amateurs and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Given the wide range of boats presented, advanced boaters and first-time buyers can find the perfect boat, adapted to their preferences. There are also keen sailors as well as motorboat enthusiasts, all passionate about the yachting world. Lately, the show attracts more and more non-yachting affluent visitors, just curious to discover this amazing world and to enjoy the luxury atmosphere, location and beautiful setting.
AFTER DARK
On Friday September 9, there is a late-night opening of the show until 10pm and many of the exhibitors throw glamorous parties with live music, shows and entertainment aboard the yachts and on stands. On Saturday night, the annual World Yachts Trophies will be hosted at the InterContinental Carlton Cannes with a gala dinner on the beach. During this exceptional evening, guests will have a close-up view of the Yacht Parade, showcasing the top yachts from the show and finishing with a spectacular firework display.
STAY
Cannes is known for its iconic palace hotels that line the Croisette. Distinguished by an elegant historical facade, The InterContinental Carlton Cannes is a monument on the French Riviera, rich in history and tradition. Grand Hyatt Cannes Hôtel Martinez also has a long rich history and timeless art-deco beauty with a private beach and the only two Michelin-starred restaurant in Cannes. Just steps away from the Palais des Festivals, the Hôtel Barrière, Le Majestic Cannes has exquisite bars and restaurants and a new private beach. Alternatively, a hidden gem and a more modern alternative, the boutique Five Seas Hotel has a rooftop infinity pool and bar, a Michelin-starred restaurant and Spa by Cinq Mondes.
DINE
Offering the most gourmet experience is the panoramic restaurant located on the roof of the Palais – the best place to admire the view and the 600 yachts on show. For the first time, Louis Roederer Champagne will present its vintage Brut Premier and new Domaines Ott* rosé wine baptised “BY.OTT”.
WEAR
There is not a dress code per se, though most visitors opt for “coastal chic”, however in the evening, guests often change into something more glamorous. We also advise wearing soft-soled shoes and to avoid wearing heels. In general, you will be asked to remove your shoes before getting on board yachts.
MUST DO
The Concours d’Elégance competition provides a unique spectacle of rare vintage and modern-day boats and will take place in the Vieux Port alongside the VIP pontoon and the festival’s beach area on Thursday September 8 at 5pm. VIP guests will have comfortable deckchairs and binoculars so as not to miss any of the fantastic parade and are invited to the VIP Club for the awards ceremony cocktails. Having your photograph taken by the prestigious Studio Harcourt Paris in the same glamorous way as some of the world’s most famous international stars is an opportunity not to be missed.
