On the sunny Cote d’Azur you will never be bored. In addition to the natural attraction of sun, sea, beach, mountains, restaurants, golf courses, there are a large number of cultural activities every week. The first week of June is traditionally the week of Les Voiles d’Antibes.
This classic sailing boat race is a spectacle to behold and takes you back in time with classic sailing yachts that all come to Antibes for this occasion. Antibes, as a port city, is already cosy all year round due to the international atmosphere. During this event, it is extra fun because of the many ‘yachties’ on shore.
The Classic Yacht Racing Season starts with Les Voiles d’Antibes
Les Voiles d’Antibes, held annually in the first week of June, is a premier event on the Mediterranean yachting calendar, marking the opening of the classic yacht racing season since its inception in 1996. This prestigious regatta, set against the picturesque backdrop of Antibes on the French Riviera, celebrates the elegance and heritage of traditional sailing yachts, blending adventure, luxury, and sporting tradition.
Attracting around 65 yachts and over 700 crew members from more than 29 nationalities, the event showcases a stunning array of vintage yachts (built before 1950), classic yachts (pre-1976), Spirit of Tradition yachts, and metric classes like 6 MJI, 8 MJI, and 12 MJI, which competed in the America’s Cup from 1958 to 1987. Iconic vessels such as Ikra, Cambria, Tuiga, and Hallowe’en—a William Fife-designed Bermudan cutter hailed as the “perfect gentleman’s yacht”—grace the waters, offering spectators a glimpse into the golden age of yachting.
Programma Les Voiles d’Antibes
The 30th edition, scheduled for June 4 to 8, 2025, unfolds over five days, with four dedicated to racing along the 23-kilometer coastline between the bays of Antibes and Juan-les-Pins. The programme begins on Wednesday, June 4, with registration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Esplanade du Bastion Saint-Jaume, followed by an ‘80s-themed Nostalgie Party at 8 p.m. Thursday, June 5, features the first race from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with coastal courses visible from the shore, followed by live music from the Crazy Warren Band at 7 p.m. and Alambic’s world music at 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday host races from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with events like Sea Shepherd Day and performances by Les Marinettes and Flea Market. Sunday, June 8, concludes with the final race, a prize-giving ceremony at 6:30 p.m., and a nostalgic ‘80s evening. The Village des Voiles, open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., offers exhibitions, environmental displays, and partner stalls at Port Vauban.
Where to see the boats
To see the boats in action, head to La Gravette or Antibes’ ramparts to watch yachts depart Port Vauban around 10 a.m. and start racing by 11 a.m. Follow the race along Pointe de Bacon or the “Tire-Poil” path toward Villeneuve-Loubet for prime coastal views. Chartering a yacht offers a closer perspective, which is bookable through brokers like Northrop & Johnson. Parking is available at the car park next to Port Vauban, Avenue de Verdun, 06600 Antibes—arrive early to secure a spot.
If you like the atmosphere, you might want to buy a property in Antibes. Please feel free to contact us for a selection within your budget.
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