The Voiles de Saint-Tropez: a prestigious regatta on the French Riviera
Every autumn, Saint Tropez The town pulsates to the rhythm of one of the most prestigious sailing races on the French Riviera. Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is an unmissable event for sailing enthusiasts and casual observers alike, who come to the bay to enjoy a maritime spectacle where maxi-yachts and century-old classic sailboats mingle. In 2026, more than 300 boats will participate in the regatta, which can be followed directly from the quays of the Jean-RĂ©veille pier or from the sea with specialized companies.
The Sails of Saint-Tropez: a bit of history
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez They were born in 1981, following a challenge undertaken by two skippers: Jean Laurain, captain ofCaviar and Dick Jackson, skipper of PrideThe two sailors faced off in a race that started at the Portalet tower in Saint-Tropez and finished at Club 55 on Pampelonne beach in Ramatuelle, where they enjoyed a friendly lunch with the loser paying the bill. This challenge was so successful that it was repeated by other sailboats a year later. The race evolved into a regatta and was christened " Nioulargue However, in 1995, the collision during a race of Taos Brett IV (an 11-meter sloop) by Mariette brought the event to an end. No further gatherings were organized following this accident. It wasn't until 1999 that the regattas returned, thanks to the efforts of the Saint-Tropez Nautical Society. Instead of Nioulargue, they were renamed Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.
Dates and program for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2026
The Voiles de Saint-Tropez regatta takes place between September and October each year in the bay. It brings together up to 300 boats and more than 3000 crew members are expected in the port.
The 2026 edition of the regattas
Firstrd edition takes place from September 26 to October 4, 2026As tradition dictates, three main categories are presented:
- Maxi yachts : this category includes the largest units, ranging from 18 to 20 meters.
- Traditional sailing ships These classics include the auric and equivalent eras. Among the representatives who have marked history are Moonbeam or Nan of Fife in 2018 or Shenandoah in 2022.
- Modern boats This category includes fast, habitable monohulls over 9 meters. By 2026, the division will include an electric fleet and fast cruising sailboats.
The Village of Sails
The vibrant heart of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez on land, the Village is located on the Jean Réveille pier and covers an area of ​​2500 m2. It offers, among other things:
- Exhibitions of nautical equipment and new products;
- Stands from partner brands;
- Dining areas;
- Festive spaces including pop-up bars and evening concerts;
- Film and documentary screenings about sailing;
- Meetings between enthusiasts.
Best viewpoints to admire the boat races
Every year, thousands of spectators flock to the quays or the Saint-Tropez Nautical Society village to watch the event. To make the most of the spectacle, there are several vantage points offering different perspectives on the race:
- The Jean-RĂ©veille jetty and the Portalet seawall : to watch the departures and arrivals of the boats;
- The Citadel of Saint-Tropez and the Sainte-Anne chapel : to have a panoramic view of the race;
- The beaches of Pampelonne : to see the sailboats sailing along the coast.
Rent a yacht to follow the sailing events from the sea
Many companies offer "follow boat" excursions, allowing you to follow the race directly from the sea. These trips provide the opportunity to appreciate the race in every detail and observe the crews' maneuvers in real-world conditions. Companies that organize these sea trips include:
Where to stay and eat in Saint-Tropez during the major nautical gathering?
The advantage of Saint-Tropez is that it has countless hotels and restaurants that can accommodate you during the regatta event.
Available hotel establishments
Ideally, you should always choose the city center for accommodation and dining during the Voiles de Saint-Tropez. Near the port and the Place des Lices, you'll find renowned establishments such as the HĂ´tel des Lices, the unmissable HĂ´tel Byblos, the HĂ´tel Les Palmiers, or the White 921.
If you're looking for a quieter option to avoid the crowds, head to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The SOWELL HOTELS Golfe de Saint-Tropez is a 4-star beachfront property set in a stunning 4-hectare park. The Suffren Hotel is another excellent choice, located in the heart of the lakeside town of Port Grimaud.
Where to eat during the Voiles de Saint-Tropez?
Saint-Tropez offers a wide variety of restaurants to suit all tastes. On the port, the Opéra Saint-Tropez serves bold international cuisine in a stunning setting adorned with works of art. For gourmet dining, there are exceptional restaurants such as L'Olivier at La Bastide de Saint-Tropez, which boasts a Michelin star. If you're looking for something more convivial, the clubs on Pampelonne beach, like the legendary Club 55, are a must.
What to do in Saint-Tropez after the sailing race?
When the final cannon fires and the last sailboats return to port in the setting sun, the magic of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez doesn't end at the finish line. The end of the regattas marks the beginning of a completely different experience: discovering a legendary village.
Strolling through the Place des Lices Market
It is the beating heart of local life in Saint-Tropez. Shaded by century-old plane trees, the Place des Lices The town comes alive to the rhythm of its iconic market (held on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, but remaining the daily meeting point for locals). After the excitement of the regattas, take the time to stroll through it and soak up its Mediterranean scents and colours: stalls of spices, olives, Provençal fabrics and local produce.
Head to the Ponche district
To escape the crowds of the port and the Croisette, head towards the Ponche district, the former heart of the Tropezian fishermen. With its narrow streets with ochre and pink facades, its vaulted passages and its small pebble coves nestled at the foot of the Portalet Tower, this historic area embodies the bohemian spirit that has seduced artists from all over the world.
Discover the arts and craftsmanship of Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is inextricably linked to its exceptional artisanal heritage. Take advantage of your stopover to visit the village's historic workshops. The must-see, of course, is the making of the famous Tropezian sandals Bespoke leather goods (particularly from legendary houses like Rondini or K.Jacques) are a symbol of timeless elegance born in the 1920s. Take the time to explore the independent art galleries and boutiques of local artisans who perpetuate the traditions of ceramics, perfumery, and high-end textiles. And for those with a sweet tooth, it's impossible to leave the village without bringing back the authentic... Tropézienne pieThis gourmet brioche is sprinkled with sugar and filled with a patented cream blend.
A visit to the vineyards of the Gulf
The microclimate of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and its proximity to the sea create an exceptional terroir for viticulture. Take advantage of the end of your day or the day after a regatta to explore the Côtes de Provence wine route. The area around Saint-Tropez and Gassin is home to prestigious estates and châteaux (such as Château Minuty, Domaine de Bertaud Belieu, and Château Barbeyrolles) offering cellar tours and private tastings.
Join the regattas thanks to EDEN CAB !
During Les Voiles de Saint-TropezAvoid the hassles of traffic and parking on the peninsula. For your trips to the port, your dinners in the city center, or your transfers from the airports and train stations of the Riviera, entrust your journeys to an exceptional private chauffeur.
