The Yachting Festival in Cannes, the world's most important in-water boat show, kicks off tomorrow at 10am. After last year's cancellation at short notice and the cancellation of almost all other high-ranking events of this kind since spring 2020, it is an important turning point. And even if it is still unclear how well attended the industry rendezvous will be, how many international media representatives and guests will be travelling to the Côte d'Azur for it: The boat builders and suppliers will be there in large numbers.
The list of exhibitors ranges from Amel to X-Yachts, whose flags rattle in the wide expanse of Port Canto. German shipyards are also here: Bavaria and Hanseyachts are exhibiting in Port Canto, as are their catamaran brands Privilege and Nautitech. And Michael Schmidt's Y Yachts from Greifswald is represented with two models among the noble and exclusive yachts. In total, more than 130 yachts are lined up close together. And there is no shortage of interesting premieres.
We counted a good dozen today on our first tour of the piers that have not yet been released, including the Italia 14.98, the IC 36 from Independent Catamarans, the J 45, the Jeanneau Yachts 60, Swan 54, Solaris 60, and the Tanna 47 from Fountaine Pajot, the Lagoon 55, Outremer 55 and Windelo 50.
It is true that the segment under twelve metres is underrepresented overall. And when you do find them in the shadow of 58-foot cats or 90-foot superyachts, they appear almost touchingly dwarfish. Cannes has always been a trade fair for the larger units. But that - along with the flair of the Croisette - is what makes it so appealing.
The big question is how well the Yachting Festival will be received. Overall, the manufacturers are as uncertain as the organisers. But there is also a certain sense of calm, as the order books are full due to the coronavirus pandemic and the rediscovery of boats as the ideal holiday home. Nevertheless, everyone knows that the boom will not last forever. That's probably why they're here.
The fair runs until Sunday and is open daily from 10am. A complete vaccination or a negative PCR test, which must not be older than 72 hours, is required for access.
