Top Sailing Events in France: 2025 Regattas and Boat Shows

Explore France’s premier sailing events in 2025, from regattas to boat shows. Discover key dates, locations, and how to experience them by boat.

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez (27 September – 5 October 2025)

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, scheduled from 27 September to 5 October 2025, is a prominent sailing event on the French Riviera. Organized by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, it features approximately 250 classic and modern yachts competing in various races.

The event’s schedule includes daily races for different yacht classes: modern yachts start at 11:00 AM near the village, maxi yachts at 12:00 PM in Pampelonne Bay, and classic yachts also at 12:00 PM near the village. Notable races include the Rolex Trophy and the Club 55 Cup.

Beyond the races, the event offers various onshore activities. The Village des Voiles hosts live music from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM daily. Other activities include the “Sardinade evening” on 30 September, the “Pétanque des Voiles” boules competition on 1 October, and the crew parade on 2 October.

Spectators can view the races from the harbor or charter boats to follow the action at sea. Charter packages vary, with single-day tickets starting at €1,650 (approximately \$1,800) and premium regatta bundles at €9,950 (approximately \$10,800).

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez offers a comprehensive sailing experience, combining competitive races with cultural and social events, attracting participants and spectators worldwide.

Vendée Globe (Started 10 November 2024)

The Vendée Globe is a solo, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world yacht race, starting and finishing in Les Sables-d’Olonne. The 2024–2025 edition began on 10 November 2024, with 40 skippers participating. Charlie Dalin won the race, completing the course in 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes, and 49 seconds, setting a new record.

The 2024–2025 Vendée Globe was the tenth edition of this solo, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world yacht race, starting and finishing in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France. The race commenced on 10 November 2024, with 40 skippers from 11 nations, including 6 women, participating. The fleet sailed approximately 45,000 kilometers (24,000 nautical miles), rounding the three major capes: Good Hope, Leeuwin, and Horn.

French sailor Charlie Dalin, aboard MACIF Santé Prévoyance, won the race, completing the course in 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes, and 49 seconds, setting a new record by surpassing the previous best by over nine days. Dalin led the race from 30 December 2024 until the finish on 14 January 2025.

The race featured notable performances, including Yoann Richomme’s second-place finish and Sébastien Simon’s third-place result. Jean Le Cam, at 65, became the oldest participant to finish the race, while Violette Dorange, at 23, was the youngest.

The 2024–2025 Vendée Globe showcased advancements in sailing technology and human endurance, solidifying its status as a premier event in the world of sailing.

La Semaine du Golfe du Morbihan (26 May – 1 June 2025)

La Semaine du Golfe du Morbihan is a biennial maritime festival scheduled for 26 May to 1 June 2025 in Brittany, France. This 13th edition will feature over 1,200 traditional and classic boats from across Europe, divided into 13 flotillas based on size and type.

Each day, flotillas navigate the Gulf of Morbihan, stopping at different ports among the 19 participating communes, including Vannes, Auray, and Île-aux-Moines. The event opens with a parade on 26 May, where tall ships enter the Gulf around 3 PM. A highlight is the Grand Parade on 31 May, featuring all vessels sailing together in a coordinated display.

Onshore, attendees can enjoy exhibitions, model sailing displays, children’s play areas, and diverse musical performances, including brass bands, jazz, Celtic music, choirs, and folk dances. Evening entertainment includes concerts and traditional Breton dances known as fest-noz.

For those wishing to experience the festival from the water, charter options are available. Heritage yachts like the 40.5-meter HYDROGRAAF and the 48-meter MORGENSTER can accommodate up to 90 passengers, with daily rates starting at €9,400 (approximately $10,100). Alternatively, smaller boats such as the Jeanneau Sun 2000 are available for rent from €129 (approximately $140) per day.

La Semaine du Golfe du Morbihan offers a comprehensive maritime experience, combining sailing traditions with cultural festivities, appealing to both sailing enthusiasts and general visitors.

Grand Pavois La Rochelle (23–28 September 2025)

The Grand Pavois La Rochelle, scheduled from 23 to 28 September 2025, is one of Europe’s largest in-water boat shows. Held at Port des Minimes in La Rochelle, France, the event spans 100,000 m² and is expected to attract approximately 80,000 visitors. Over 800 international brands from 33 countries will exhibit, showcasing around 750 boats, including 300 afloat.

The show features various themed areas catering to different interests:

• In-Water Boats: Visitors can explore a wide range of sailing and motor boats directly in the water.
• Equipment and Services: Exhibitors present the latest in marine equipment, electronics, and services.
• Fishing Village: Dedicated to fishing enthusiasts, this area offers specialized gear and demonstrations.
• Heritage and Tradition: Showcasing traditional boats and maritime craftsmanship.
• Sustainable Innovations: Highlighting eco-friendly technologies and practices in boating .

Sea trials are available, allowing potential buyers to test boats in real conditions. Additionally, the show hosts conferences and workshops on current trends and innovations in the boating industry.

Opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, except on Sunday, when the show closes at 6:00 PM . Ticket prices are as follows:

• Standard Ticket: €16 (approx. \$17)
• Duo Ticket (2 visitors): €28 (approx. \$30)
• Reduced Rate: €10 (approx. \$11) for groups of 10 or more, youths aged 13–18, students with ID, and job seekers with proof
• 6-Day Pass: €27 (approx. \$29), including access to all buses and sea buses in La Rochelle
• Children under 13: Free admission.

Practical Information for Attendees

• Travel and Accommodation: Major sailing events in France are accessible via regional airports and train services. Accommodations range from hotels to vacation rentals; early booking is advisable during event periods.
• Boat Rentals: Chartering a boat offers a unique perspective of the events. Various companies provide rental services, with options ranging from small sailboats to larger yachts. Ensure compliance with local maritime regulations and consider hiring a skipper if unfamiliar with the area.
• Event Access: While some events are free to attend, others may require tickets or registration, especially for boat shows or specific viewing areas. Check official event websites for detailed information and schedules.

GET IN TOUCH if you are interested in any of these events and would like to attend and/or follow the race on your privatized boat.

Attending these sailing events provides insight into France’s rich maritime culture and offers experiences for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the sailing world.

XperienceFrance is your travel specialist in France.