Vibrant heart of Cannes, the old Port stands out as the essential gateway between land and sea in the city of Festivals. Located at the foot of Le Suquet and opening onto the Croisette, it is an authentic and friendly place, witnessing the evolution of the city. Discover: yachts, shuttles, boats of all kinds, but also the "pointus", these small traditional boats that catch the eye with their bright color. Beyond that, this port of Cannes also offers a myriad of experiences: walks, excursions, nautical activities, restaurants, shopping... there is something for all tastes and desires.

Immerse yourself in the charm of the port of Cannes

The origins of the Old Port of Cannes date back to Antiquity, when the first fishermen settled in this naturally protected bay. Over the centuries, what was only a modest shelter for a few fishing boats has transformed into an emblematic port, a privileged witness to the evolution of Cannes.

Near to the Croisette, this port of Cannes is structured around several distinct zones which give it its unique character. The Saint-Pierre quay, the true soul of the port, traditionally shelters local fishermen and their colorful pointus. This is where the authentic heart of Cannes beats. The Laubeuf quay, more modern, mainly accommodates pleasure boats and offers a breathtaking view of the bay. As for the jetty Albert Edward North, it is one of the most emblematic structures of the port, protecting boats from the whims of the Mediterranean while serving as a popular promenade for visitors.

Today, the Old Port impresses with its remarkable capacity. It offers 635 berths in total, including 577 dedicated to boats under 18 meters. Larger yachts are not left out: 58 berths are specially designed to accommodate vessels exceeding 18 meters. The largest can reach up to 140 meters in length. There are no width restrictions, and the maximum draft is 5 meters, allowing access to a wide variety of boats.

Since 2022, the management of the Old Port has been ensured by IGY Marinas, an international group renowned for its expertise in managing high-end marinas. Their expertise has enabled the modernization of infrastructure while preserving the authenticity for which the port is renowned.

A promising future is emerging for this iconic location. Thanks to a substantial investment of €56,2 million (excluding VAT), entirely financed by the operator, it will undergo unprecedented modernization and beautification in the coming years. This major renovation project, scheduled for completion in 2027, will notably involve the Fishing Village, the Laubeuf sector, and the Albert Edouard jetty. The objective is clear: to transform the port while remaining faithful to its Provençal identity, which is the basis of its charm and reputation.

What to do and see in the Old Port of Cannes?

The Old Port of Cannes is a dynamic place, at the crossroads of maritime tradition and contemporary luxury. It satisfies all the desires of gastronomy enthusiasts, water sports enthusiasts, and those simply enjoying a stroll.

Walk and explore

A visit to the Old Port inevitably begins with a immersive walk along its quaysLet yourself be lulled by the lapping of the water and the incessant ballet of the boats. Quai Saint-Pierre, a privileged starting point for many excursions, is ideal for observing the departure and arrival of shuttles to the Lérins Islands. But it is probably theluxury yacht watching that captures the most attention. Line up alongside the imposing superyachts anchored at the docks, veritable floating palaces. The contrast is striking with the traditional pointed, these colorful fishing boats typical of the Mediterranean. In the morning, come and meet the local fishermen on the Quai Laubeuf unloading their fresh catch of the day. For photography enthusiasts, the must-see photo spots not to be missed: the view of Le Suquet with its colorful houses overlooking the port and Our Lady of Hope Church, the reflections of the masts in the water at sunrise or the illuminated yachts at night. Each angle offers a unique perspective on this exceptional panorama.

Water activities and excursions

The Old Port is the ideal starting point for all kinds ofwater activities and excursions. If you dream of exploring the coast on your own, the boat rental (with or without license) is easily accessible. For an exotic escape, the excursions to the Lérins Islands Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat are a must-see. Discover the cells of the Man in the Iron Mask or the monastic vineyards and enjoy a day of swimming and hiking in unspoiled natural settings. Don't miss the Corniche d'Or either; commented cruises depart from Cannes to discover the red rocks of the Esterel and the calanques. For your excursions, you can choose between different companies: Trans Côte d'Azur, Riviera Lines, Horizon ou planaria. For the more adventurous, sessions of sea ​​fishing are organized to tease fish offshore. Finally, various water sports accessible from the port Activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing complete the offering for thrill-seekers. For those who prefer to stay at the dock, there are several discoveries to be made in the surrounding area: l’hôtel de ville, the historic villas, etc.

Gastronomy facing the sea

The Old Port is lined with many restaurants that will satisfy all palates. Located opposite the port of Cannes, Pizza Cresci is an institution in the city of festivals. Established in the 60s, the restaurant created by Francis Cresci attracts film and music celebrities with its gargantuan, ultra-crispy pizzas. The Provençal Plate at 9 Quai Saint Pierre is also a great place to enjoy Provençal cuisine in an authentic atmosphere with good value for money.

Among local specialties to taste The most popular dishes include Cannes bouillabaisse, rockfish soup, Provençal stuffed vegetables, and Aigues-Mortes fougasse. These iconic dishes tell the story of the region's maritime and agricultural history.

La range of prices and atmospheres is very varied, ranging from the simple fisherman's bistro where you can have lunch for less than €20, to Michelin-starred establishments where the "tasting" menu can exceed €150. Between these extremes, there are many quality options allowing you to eat with excellent value for money.

Events and highlights in the port of Cannes

The Old Port of Cannes comes alive every year with several emblematic events.

Sailboats in the spotlight

Cannes Royal Regatta are a sailing competition that takes place every September. This prestigious event, whose origins date back to 1929, has established itself as one of the most elegant and respected events on the international classic sailing calendar.

For an entire week, the Quai Saint-Pierre is transformed into a floating gallery lined up with dozens of exceptional sailing ships, some of them centuries old. These "grandes dames" of the sea, with their varnished hulls, imposing masts, and immaculate sails, constitute an invaluable maritime heritage. These include iconic classes such as the "Dragons," the "Sharks," and the majestic "Class J," which can reach up to 40 meters in length.

The unmissable Cannes Yachting Festival

Le Cannes Yachting Festival has established itself as Europe's largest in-water boat show, transforming the Vieux Port and Port Canto every September into exceptional showcases for the global boating industry. Over six days, these two venues host more than 600 vessels, from modest day boats to superyachts over 50 meters long.

What particularly distinguishes this festival is its ability to present world premieres of the latest innovations from the most prestigious shipyards. Visitors can discover models that have never before sailed anywhere else, equipped with the most advanced technologies in propulsion, comfort, and marine ecology.

The tradition of Provençal jousting

Provençal jousts constitute one of the oldest and most spectacular traditions of Mediterranean maritime heritage. Every summer, generally between June and August, the Old Port of Cannes revives this centuries-old heritage by hosting several tournaments that attract hundreds of spectators.

This traditional water sport dating back to the Middle Ages involves two "jousters" perched on the "teineine" (raised platform) at the back of boats propelled by oarsmen, attempting to knock each other over in the water with a spear. The boats, painted in traditional bright colors, cross in opposite directions so that the combatants can display their strength and skill.

The setting for the show is perfectly orchestrated: facing the Quai Saint-Pierre, the temporary stands allow the audience to catch all the action. The atmosphere is electric, punctuated by the cheers of the crowd and the passionate commentary of the speaker who explains the rules and techniques to the uninitiated. Cannes families pass down the secrets of this sport of balance and strategy from generation to generation.

From the Port of Cannes, explore the French Riviera without constraints.

Let your private driver guide you for a tailor-made day: Monaco, Saint-Tropez, or the hilltop villages of the hinterland.

Rent your luxury car with chauffeur by the hour or by the day and transform your stopover in Cannes into a private and comfortable exploration.

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