Trade fair preview: The most important innovations at the Cannes Yachting Festival

Numbers help to illustrate what visitors can expect this year in the Vieux Port and in Port Canto, one kilometre to the east: The row of yachts would be ten kilometres long if all 650 exhibited boats were lined up one behind the other. This would allow you to walk from the historic centre of Cannes to Théoulesur-Mer on the opposite side of the bay without getting wet! The yachts range in length from a compact two metres to an impressive 73 metres. In addition, 54,000 visitors and 600 exhibitors are expected, making the open-air festival one of the most important yacht shows in the world.

For an entrance fee of 31 euros, there is an unrivalled concentration of world premieres to see and, above all, to test. Many shipyards organise test drives with their new products before the start of the fair and in the evening hours to convince potential customers and the trade press directly on site. The perfect Mediterranean climate at the beginning of September and a varied culinary offering along the harbour and the famous La Croisette promenade and shopping mile round off the overall package.

"There are simply many good reasons to visit this show," says Martin Hager, editor-in-chief of our sister magazine BOOTE EXCLUSIV, enthusiastically. "Of the numerous shows I have visited so far, the Cannes Yachting Festival is by far my favourite."

Two harbours, connected by shuttle boat

While the Vieux Port focuses on motorboats and superyachts, Port Canto, on the eastern side of the bay, showcases sailing yachts, multihulls, a variety of water sports equipment and larger brokerage offers on a total area of 4,000 square metres. Free water taxis are available for visitors, which regularly connect the two harbours; the journey takes around 15 minutes.

With the advent of e-mobility in the yachting industry, the selection of e-tenders is also increasing, and this year they will once again be presented on their own jetty. Anyone looking for a yacht designer to create their dream yacht, on the other hand, may find what they are looking for in the Palais des Festivals. Here, several offices will be showcasing their latest concepts in a pleasant, air-conditioned atmosphere and patiently answering questions from potential owners. Visitors with an interest in technology will find a selection of the latest on-board electronics, while leading engine manufacturers such as MTU, MAN and Caterpillar will also be on hand to provide advice on the latest developments at their own XL stands.

• Information and tickets at cannesyachtingfestival.com

Also interesting:

• The international trade fair highlights until the end of 2023
• These boats will be presented at the Interboot in Friedrichshafen