The city of Cannes is one of the French Riviera towns where events are plentiful: whether at the Palais des Festivals or along the coast, residents and vacationers alike make the most of Cannes, regardless of the season. It is in this spirit that, from September 22 to 27, 2025, the Bay of Cannes will host one of the world’s most prestigious nautical events: the Royal Regattas.
For this 2025 edition, which promises to be exceptional, whether you are a sailing enthusiast or a complete novice, we offer you through this article the opportunity to discover the Royal Regattas and learn everything about this major sailing event!
History and Tradition of this Nautical Event
The Royal Regattas in Cannes are a series of annual international regattas for prestigious traditional sailboats and one of the world’s largest gatherings of traditional racing sailboats, with over a hundred participants each year. For one week, from September 22 to 27 for this 2025 edition, hosted by the city of Cannes in the bay of the same name, event participants and tourists will have access to sailboat competitions and a festive atmosphere.
Historically, the Royal Regattas were created in 1929 by the Cannes Regatta Society and the International Yacht Club of Cannes, one of the oldest clubs in France, in honor of the sailor-king Christian X of Denmark. As an anecdote, several sovereign-skippers passionate about sailing have participated in these Royal Regattas, such as King George V of the United Kingdom and the Prince of Wales Edward VII.
To date, this international gathering of traditional sailboats brings together a significant fleet of “about fifty Dragons (nicknamed the ‘king of sailboats’) and more than 80 classic traditional yachts (some over a century old) sailed ‘in’ the old-fashioned way in maritime tradition.”
Program and Key Dates of the Royal Regattas
As mentioned previously, the Royal Regattas will be held from September 22 to Saturday, September 27, 2025. For six consecutive days, the Bay of Cannes will transform into an exceptional maritime theater where the world’s most beautiful traditional sailboats will compete, in addition to “other events that will take place on land, particularly at the Royal Regattas village: open daily from 9 am to 7:30 pm, it is located on Quai St Pierre and will allow you to meet enthusiasts, interact with crews, and discover exhibitor stands dedicated to the maritime world. Additionally, you’ll find a refreshment stand to enjoy the” convivial atmosphere that prevails on the coast during the “event.”
The Best Viewpoints to See the Royal Regattas
To best enjoy the Royal Regattas, it is advisable to choose the best location to enjoy the spectacle; you can also get a higher vantage point by going to the Le Suquet quarter, a spot that will allow you to distance yourself and appreciate the view of the city and the Bay of Cannes. If you want to see the sailboats up close, head to La Croisette and enjoy the beaches lining the facades of the luxurious hotels located there. Note that the tip of La Croisette is ideal if you want to have Cannes and the Esterel as a backdrop.
For a unique and original viewpoint, we recommend the Lérins Islands, off the coast of Cannes, where, in addition to enjoying the Mediterranean panorama, you can discover beautiful landscapes, stunning beaches, and the fort of Saint-Honorat!
Finally, if you’re looking for a place where the atmosphere will be lively, go to the quays: between the race starts and the boats’ returns, the spectacle is constant!
Parallel Activities to Do and Atmosphere in the City
Besides the Royal Regattas in Cannes in September, the city offers a wide range of varied activities that will enchant you, especially if you stay for a week; thus, we recommend you visit Cannes’ heritage, particularly if you are a history enthusiast. Head to the Suquet quarter to discover its cobblestone streets, colorful houses and the church of Notre-Dame d’Espérance, an emblematic monument of the old town.
At this time of the year, the sun is still present and the crowds are smaller: it is, in fact, the ideal opportunity to go to the Cannes beaches to enjoy a pleasant swim in complete serenity. Besides this activity, the more sporty can stay in the mood and practice many water activities, such as paddle boarding, scuba diving, or even catamaran sailing on the open sea. Finally, due to the calm that reigns after the high season, the prices of accommodations and restaurants start to decrease, so it’s an excellent time to enjoy high-end services at more affordable rates.
In short, visiting Cannes in September means choosing serenity without compromising on sunshine or activities.
Come to Cannes and Experience the Royal Regattas in Person
Whether you love boats or come to Cannes to enjoy a seaside stay, the Royal Regattas offer a unique event due to their longevity and cultural aspect, deeply rooted among enthusiasts. It’s an opportunity to discover unique boats for a spectacle on the water
So, what are you waiting for to book your stay in Cannes and participate in the Royal Regattas? Whether for a weekend or a longer getaway, you will return conquered by this city that knows how to remain elegant, warm, and lively… even after its Royal Regattas! Our team remains at your disposal for any questions and information requests during your booking on our site.