Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 guide: Yacht brokerage, sales & charter and VIP experiences with Edmiston
Featuring over 700 vessels and 680 exhibitors and held over six days across the Vieux Port and the expanded Port Canto loop, the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 opens 8-13 September. Experience the show with Edmiston and gain access to expert brokerage insight, private viewings and the most significant yachts for sale and charter at one of the world's leading in-water boat shows.
Since launching in 1977, the Cannes Yachting Festival has evolved to become one of Europe’s most important luxury yachting showcases and the biggest in-water boat show on the continent. This year is the 49th edition of the show, which has come to be seen as the unofficial closing ceremony for the Mediterranean charter season, as well as the inaugural event of the boat-show calendar.
Centred round the Vieux Port and Port Canto in the heart of the chic French city, the Cannes boat show, which takes place from 8-13 September, features more than 700 boats of up to 55 metres in length – both brand-new yachts and brokerage yachts – including one of the finest sailing fleets of any boat show.
As a hub of the French Riviera superyacht scene, Cannes attracts those looking to buy, charter or commission a yacht. Edmiston is your trusted partner for making the most of the longstanding show.
What to expect at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026
The Vieux Port remains the centrepiece of the Cannes Yachting Festival and the principal stage for new yacht launches. The Jetée is home to many of the show’s largest yachts and world premieres from some of the industry’s most respected shipyards, while Quai Max Laubeuf, where the festival first began, extends the display with an impressive collection of large motor yachts.
New for 2026 is a dedicated monohull section and the Power Cat Village, while the neighbouring Pantiero area showcases the latest marine technology, equipment and innovations.
Across the bay, Port Canto hosts the world’s largest sailing showcase alongside the Power Boat Marina, a significant selection of brokerage yachts and some of the most innovative water toys on the market.
A key focus for the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival is the relaunch of the Innovation Route and its associated awards, reinforcing the show’s commitment to sustainability and recognising exhibitors advancing innovation across the industry. By placing green innovation centre stage, the festival aims to establish itself as a benchmark for the marine sector’s energy transition and the future of yachting.
While the full line-up for Cannes Yachting Festival exhibitors for September has yet to be announced, expectations are high following a strong 2025 edition. Last year saw Sanlorenzo unveil three new models, while Azimut introduced the Grande 30M, the first yacht from the Italian shipyard equipped with Rolls-Royce MTU’s latest propulsion system, designed to improve efficiency.
The annual Concours d’Elegance remains one of the festival’s defining moments, showcasing an exceptional collection of classic and contemporary craft in the waters of the Bay of Cannes.
Edmiston at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026
Throughout the Cannes Yachting Festival, our brokers can arrange private yacht viewings, curate personalised schedules and facilitate introductions to shipyards, designers and industry specialists, ensuring every visit is focused on your interests and objectives.
Through our partnership with Range Rover, clients also benefit from complimentary chauffeur-driven transport throughout Cannes, while our concierge team can assist with restaurant reservations, hotel bookings and helicopter transfers, ensuring a seamless experience both on and off the water.
Edmiston’s luxury superyacht brokers will be available throughout the festival to advise on all aspects of yachting, from acquisition and new-build projects to French Riviera yacht charter opportunities after the show.
Cannes yacht charter opportunities during & after the show
Set in the heart of the French Riviera, Cannes is also an ideal starting point for a Mediterranean yacht charter before or after the festival. For those wishing to spend more time on the water, a yacht provides the opportunity to experience the region at its own pace, informed by the insights and inspiration gained during the show.
A classic Côte d’Azur itinerary might begin with a leisurely cruise towards Cap d’Antibes, where yachts gather off the pine-fringed peninsula, before continuing to Nice for its vibrant old town, renowned restaurants and cultural landmarks, including the Musée Matisse. From there, the Riviera unfolds in whichever direction appeals most, from the beach clubs and waterfront restaurants of Saint-Tropez to the glamour, nightlife and world-class events of Monaco.
Beyond providing access to one of the world’s most established cruising grounds, a post-show charter can also offer valuable perspective for those considering a purchase. Time spent on board allows prospective Owners to experience life at sea, refine their preferences and evaluate different yachts in a real-world setting before making a longer-term commitment.
Attend the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 as a VIP with Edmiston
As one of the defining events of the Mediterranean yachting season, the Cannes boat show offers a unique opportunity to experience the breadth of the market, from world premieres and brokerage yachts to the latest developments in design and technology.
For those looking to buy, build, sell or charter a yacht, a well-planned visit can provide valuable insight and access. With brokers attending throughout the week, Edmiston can help clients make the most of their time at the show.
To discuss your plans for Cannes Yachting Festival 2026, contact your Edmiston broker today.