Les Voiles d’Antibes marks the spectacular opening of the European classic yachting season, transforming the historic port of Antibes into one of the Mediterranean’s most elegant maritime stages. Held annually in early June on the French Riviera, this prestigious regatta attracts some of the world’s finest classic sailing yachts, whose gleaming varnished decks, towering masts and billowing canvas evoke the golden age of yachting. For five unforgettable days, Antibes becomes the epicentre of traditional seamanship, heritage craftsmanship and Riviera sophistication.
Founded in 1996, Les Voiles d’Antibes has grown into one of the most respected classic yacht events in Europe and forms a key part of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge. The regatta welcomes an extraordinary fleet of vintage and classic vessels, including century-old gaff-rigged cutters, majestic schooners and meticulously restored racing yachts. Many of these boats are rare floating works of art, maintained with painstaking care by passionate owners and skilled crews who dedicate themselves to preserving maritime history.
Racing takes place in the beautiful Bay of Antibes, where steady Mediterranean breezes provide ideal sailing conditions. Spectators lining the ramparts of Old Town Antibes, the beaches and surrounding headlands are treated to a magnificent spectacle as the fleet glides across the deep blue water. Unlike modern high-tech regattas, the emphasis here is on elegance, tradition and the pure artistry of sailing. Watching these historic yachts manoeuvre under full sail is like witnessing a living museum in motion.
At the heart of the event lies Port Vauban, Europe’s largest marina and one of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious yachting harbours. During Les Voiles d’Antibes, the port transforms into a vibrant village dedicated to maritime culture. Along the quays, visitors can stroll among the classic yachts, admire intricate woodwork and brass fittings, and speak directly with crew members who are often delighted to share stories about their vessels’ remarkable histories.
Beyond the racing, the atmosphere ashore is festive and welcoming. The dockside village offers an enticing mix of gourmet food stalls, Provençal specialities, artisan products and nautical exhibits. Live music, evening concerts and cultural events continue well into the night, creating a lively social scene that blends Riviera glamour with a relaxed, friendly spirit. Families, sailing enthusiasts and casual visitors alike find something to enjoy, making Les Voiles d’Antibes far more than a sporting competition.
One of the defining characteristics of the event is the camaraderie among participants. Owners, captains and crew members gather not only to compete but also to celebrate their shared passion for classic sailing. Informal dockside gatherings, receptions and award ceremonies foster a sense of community that sets Les Voiles d’Antibes apart from many other regattas. It is as much a social occasion as it is a sporting one, rooted in mutual respect for the traditions of the sea.
The timing of the event, at the very beginning of the summer season, adds to its appeal. Early June on the Côte d’Azur offers warm sunshine without the peak-season crowds, allowing visitors to experience Antibes at its most enjoyable. The combination of historic yachts, Mediterranean scenery and festive atmosphere creates a uniquely refined Riviera experience.
For photographers and maritime enthusiasts, Les Voiles d’Antibes provides endless visual inspiration. The contrast between the ancient stone ramparts of Antibes and the graceful silhouettes of classic yachts under sail is particularly striking, especially in the golden light of late afternoon. Whether viewed from land or from a boat on the water, the regatta delivers unforgettable moments of beauty and nostalgia.
Today, Les Voiles d’Antibes stands as one of the premier classic yacht regattas in the Mediterranean, drawing international attention while remaining deeply rooted in the local character of Antibes. It celebrates not only competitive sailing but also craftsmanship, history and the enduring romance of traditional yachts.
For anyone visiting the French Riviera in early summer, Les Voiles d’Antibes offers a rare opportunity to witness some of the most magnificent classic sailing vessels in the world gathered in one place. It is an event that captures the elegance, heritage and convivial spirit of yachting at its finest — a true highlight of the Mediterranean calendar and a fitting opening to the season ahead.
Here is the programme for Les Voiles d’Antibes 2015:
3 June 2015
10am to 6pm – The yachts and their crews are welcomed to Antibes.
10am to 8pm – Numerous exhibitions and discussions on the themes of yachting, the sea and the environment.
7pm to 11pm – SBKO6 and FRED ZUMBA
4 June 2015
11am to 5pm – The Regatta – Heat 1
9am to 8pm – Numerous exhibitions and discussions on the themes of yachting, the sea and the environment.
4pm to 9pm – Concert No Water Please (Fanfare)
8.30pm to 11.30pm – NADIAMORI
5 June 2015
11am to 5pm – The Regatta – Heat 2
9am to 8pm – Numerous exhibitions and discussions on the themes of yachting, the sea and the environment.
5pm to 8pm – DJ NEK
8.30pm to midnight – BLAH BLAH
6 June 2015
11am to 5pm – The Regatta – Heat 3
9am to 8pm – Numerous exhibitions and discussions on the themes of yachting, the sea and the environment.
5pm to 8pm – DJ NEK
8pm to midnight – MERRY MOOD
10.30pm – Fireworks to celebrate the 20th Voiles d’Antibes!
7 June 2015
11am to 5pm – The Regatta – Heat 4
9am to 8pm – Numerous exhibitions and discussions on the themes of yachting, the sea and the environment.
6.30pm – PRIZEGIVING
8.30pm to 11.30pm – DJ NEK
Les Voiles d’Antibes 3-7 June 2015 in Port Vauban, Antibes
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