Cannes Yachting Festival 2025: Sailing’s Global Showcase Hits a High Note
The 48th Cannes Yachting Festival wrapped up September 14 with a record-setting display of new boats, gear and innovation that underscored the strong momentum of the global sailing and boating industry. Nearly 56,000 visitors and more than 677 exhibitors filled the Vieux Port and Port Canto, with 711 boats on display — including 147 world premieres — making this year’s edition the largest on-water boat show in Europe.
Cruising World Editor-in-Chief Andrew Parkinson was on site to explore new sailboats and gear bound for the North American market. “You could feel the energy this year,” Parkinson said. “From hybrid catamarans to next-generation electric systems, there’s a lot coming that will excite our readers and the broader sailing community.”
Sailing at Center Stage
Port Canto hosted the largest-ever display of large new sailing boats, featuring 128 vessels over 10 meters, including around thirty world premieres. With 400 meters of quay for monohulls and 450 meters for multihulls, the festival reaffirmed its position as the go-to launchpad for the next generation of cruising sailboats. Equipment manufacturers, rigging specialists and service companies also lined the quays, offering a comprehensive look at the sailing ecosystem.
Innovation Recognized
Launched in 2024, the Innovation Route highlighted 42 eco-performing solutions and next-generation technologies for sailing and boating. This year’s winners included SEA.AI’s Watchkeeper for improved navigation, MODX Catamarans’ Modx 70 for sustainable technologies, MILIKAN Boats’ M.10 propulsion system, and VAAN Yachts’ R5 for low environmental impact design. Benetti Yachts’ B.Yond 37M received the Special Jury Prize.
Smooth Experience, Big Numbers
Enhanced category organization and a strengthened sea shuttle service between the two ports ensured visitors could easily move between areas. The show’s layout allowed attendees to discover new sailboats, tenders, power catamarans, OEM products and water toys, all while testing new technologies firsthand.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 edition also marked a transition in leadership. After more than a decade at the helm, director Sylvie Ernoult handed the reins to Constance Brément, who is expected to expand the festival’s international reach while maintaining its focus on innovation and quality.
“With more than 680 journalists from nearly 40 countries attending, the Cannes Yachting Festival remains a vital pulse check for the global sailing and boating market,” Parkinson said. “For sailors and cruisers, the takeaway is clear: the next wave of cruising yachts and gear is coming fast, and Cannes is where we typically see it first.”
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