The French Riviera is once again preparing to become the global centre of yachting as the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 opens from 8 to 13 September, bringing more than 700 boats, around 680 exhibitors and a major programme of world premieres to the Vieux Port and Port Canto.
This year’s edition promises an especially strong focus on new yacht launches, innovative design, sailing, alternative propulsion and next-generation technology, with nearly 120 world premieres expected across the show.
A showcase of new yachts
Among the headline premieres is the Azimut Grande 44M, the largest yacht ever built by Azimut. Measuring around 44 metres, the new flagship combines extensive carbon-fibre construction with a four-deck layout, including a dedicated owner’s deck.
Sunseeker will also unveil its new Manhattan 94 to the public for the first time. The new flagship has already entered the water ahead of its global debut in Cannes.
Other major premieres include Sirena 118, the largest yacht ever developed by Sirena, while Numarine’s 27XP will make its world debut, continuing the shipyard’s focus on long-range explorer yachts.
The show will also see new models from brands including Aquila, Saxdor, Benetti, Riva, Princess, Absolute, Prestige and many others.
Sailing takes centre stage
Port Canto will once again host the festival’s extensive Sailing Area, with around 120 monohulls and multihulls over 10 metres displayed in the water.
Among the world premieres are the AMEL 50.2, CNB 62, Grand Soleil 80 Plus Long Cruise, YYachts Y7, Swan 80-301, Aquila 45 Sail, Fountaine Pajot FP48, Lagoon 47, Leopard 43 and Windelo 55 Sport.
The Grand Soleil 80 Plus Long Cruise is particularly notable for combining a performance-oriented carbon rig with a hybrid platform designed for longer-distance cruising.
Two ports, one global yachting stage
The festival continues to operate across Vieux Port and Port Canto, creating one of the most concentrated showcases of the international boating industry.
Vieux Port focuses heavily on larger motor yachts and superyachts, while Port Canto brings together sailing yachts, powerboats, brokerage and water toys. A dedicated sea shuttle connects the two locations.
The 2026 edition also places greater emphasis on innovation and sustainability, with the festival’s Innovation Route highlighting 47 selected projects covering areas such as electric propulsion, solar technology, recyclable batteries, foiling and smart mooring.
Cannes prepares for another defining week
From major superyacht premieres to sailing innovations and new propulsion technologies, Cannes 2026 is shaping up as an important snapshot of where the international yachting industry is heading.
For six days, Vieux Port and Port Canto will once again transform Cannes into a meeting point for yacht builders, designers, owners, brokers, technology companies and enthusiasts from around the world.
Cannes Yachting Festival 2026
📍 Cannes, France
📅 8–13 September 2026
📍 Vieux Port & Port Canto
Superyachts Channel will be following the show with the latest launches, premieres and industry stories from Cannes.
