Les Voiles d’Antibes returns from 27 to 31 May 2026, marking the 31st edition of this established classic yacht regatta. Held on the Esplanade du Bastion Saint-Jaume in Antibes, the event has opened the Mediterranean classic yacht circuit each year since 1996.
For five days, Port Vauban becomes the centre of activity as vintage and classic yachts gather before heading out into the Bay of Antibes. Crews prepare sails on the quayside, officials conduct inspections, and spectators line the harbour walls from early morning. The setting is practical rather than staged. These are working boats with professional crews, racing under internationally recognised rules.
If you are planning to visit the French Riviera in late spring, Les Voiles d Antibes offers a clear reason to base yourself in Antibes rather than passing through. The racing takes place directly offshore, and the harbour remains open to the public throughout the event.
Les Voiles d'Antibes Program 2026: Key Dates, Race Schedule and Practical Details
The official Les Voiles d’Antibes program confirms that racing runs from Wednesday 27 May to Sunday 31 May 2026.
On Wednesday 27 May, competitors arrive and complete registration and yacht inspections between 10:00 and 18:00.
From Thursday 28 May to Sunday 31 May, the first warning signal is scheduled for 11:00 each day. On the final day, no warning signal will be given after 15:00. Prize giving takes place from 18:30 on Sunday.
Races may be coastal or geometrical courses, with final details confirmed in the sailing instructions. At least one race must be completed to validate the competition.
Moorings in Port Vauban are included for registered yachts from 26 May at midday until 1 June at midday.
That means visitors arriving by sea should expect the harbour to be operating at high capacity throughout the week.
For spectators, the most important practical detail is timing. Arriving before 10:30 allows you to watch departures from the quay before moving to higher ground to follow the race.
Les Voiles d’Antibes 2026
Location: Port Vauban, Antibes
Dates: Wednesday, May 27 to Sunday, May 31, 2026
Races: 11:00 (Thursday to Sunday)
Spectators: Arrive before 10:30
Prize Giving: Sunday, May 31 at 18:30
What You Will See During Les Voiles d'Antibes
Les Voiles d’Antibes is restricted to specific categories of yacht. According to the Notice of Race, entries include vintage yachts built before 1950, classic yachts built before 1976, Classic IOR yachts launched between 1970 and 1984, Spirit of Tradition yachts over 12 metres, and Tofinou 9.50 yachts where numbers permit.
These are not replicas built for display alone. Many are restored wooden or metal-hulled yachts with documented racing histories. Others are later classic designs that meet measurement standards under the CIM regulations.
In harbour, crews move methodically through safety checks and equipment inspections. Sails are folded and re-bent, halyards are tensioned, and navigation equipment is tested. Out on the water, you will see long overhangs, traditional rigging, and symmetrical spinnakers when conditions allow.
The event is governed by the Racing Rules of Sailing, with specific adaptations noted in the official documents. Results are calculated under official racing rules, with corrected times used to determine class rankings.
The Best Places to Watch Les Voiles d'Antibes in Antibes and Cap d’Antibes
The most accessible viewing point is the ramparts near the old town of Antibes. From here, you have an elevated perspective across the Bay of Antibes, particularly when races take place on coastal courses. Bring binoculars if you want to follow manoeuvres in detail.
Another reliable spot is the outer breakwater at Port Vauban, where you can watch yachts depart and return. Early afternoon is often the best time for close views as boats re-enter the harbour under reduced sail.
For a broader panorama, Cap d’Antibes offers higher ground. Public paths around the peninsula allow you to look back towards the bay and track the fleet as it rounds marks. If you are considering a stay nearby, our guide to the most beautiful villas in Cap d’Antibes outlines the residential areas within easy reach of the race zone.
If this is your first visit, it is worth reading our overview of where the French Riviera is and exploring the main French Riviera cities and towns to understand how compact the coastline is. Antibes sits between Nice and Cannes, which makes day trips straightforward.
Social Events and Activities Ashore During Les Voiles d'Antibes
Although racing is the priority, Les Voiles d’Antibes has a structured social calendar. On Thursday 28 May at 20:00, crews attend the traditional white dress crew party, with yachts dressed overall in full flags along the quay. It is one of the few moments when competitors step ashore together and the harbour shifts from race preparation to evening celebration.
Each afternoon, the free public “Village of Les Voiles d’Antibes” fills as boats return to Port Vauban. Crews gather at the central refreshment area to review tactics and wind shifts, while spectators stand close enough to hear race analysis first-hand.
In 2025, evenings included live soul, blues, rock tributes, brass bands and DJ sets on the port, alongside exhibitor stands from yacht services, local artisans and event partners.
The 2026 programme is yet to be released, though a similar rhythm of concerts and dockside gatherings is expected, extending into Antibes’ old town where restaurants remain busy after racing finishes.
Where to Stay for Les Voiles d'Antibes on the French Riviera
Accommodation around Port Vauban and Cap d’Antibes gets booked up early during Les Voiles d’Antibes, particularly properties within walking distance of the harbour. Staying nearby allows you to move between harbour, viewing points, and restaurants without relying on transport.
Bucket List Villa offers a curated portfolio of French Riviera vacation rentals, including waterfront villas, contemporary estates, and private residences with secure parking. You can browse available properties here.
For guests attending the regatta, proximity matters. A villa in Cap d’Antibes provides privacy and quick access to the race area. A property closer to the old town places you within walking distance of the harbour gates. Larger estates suit groups attending with friends or family, particularly if you plan to host private dinners after racing concludes each day.
Plan Your Visit to Les Voiles d'Antibes 2026
Les Voiles d’Antibes is not a one-day spectacle. It unfolds over five structured days, with consistent race timings, clearly defined rules, and predictable harbour activity. That reliability makes planning straightforward.
Flights into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport place you around 30 minutes from Antibes by car. Late May typically offers stable Mediterranean weather, though wind strength determines race conditions. Comfortable footwear, sun protection, and early arrival at viewing points are sensible choices.
If you intend to experience Les Voiles d’Antibes properly, secure your accommodation early. Explore the available French Riviera properties through Bucket List Villa and select a residence that suits your group size and location preference.
To secure the right property for race week, contact our reservation team to begin planning your stay on the French Riviera.
Our team of experts is at your disposal to offer you a tailor-made service and meet all your requirements.
From finding the perfect villa to booking the trendiest restaurants and private excursions, we organize everything for you.