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THE CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL: WHERE LUXURY MEETS INNOVATION
Private Air Luxury Magazine recently had the pleasure of interviewing Sylvie Ernoult, the Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival, where she shared insights into the innovative changes and exciting features of the 2024 edition.
REGINA RUSSO
PHOTOGRAPHY: ABRACADABRA STUDIO
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The Cannes Yachting Festival, held every September since 1977, has established itself as Europe’s largest in-water boat show and the premier event for luxury yachting enthusiasts. Taking place in the stunning Bay of Cannes, this prestigious festival showcases nearly 700 boats from 5 to 50 meters in length, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about the latest in yachting.
Vision for 2024:
Meeting Evolving Desires
The 2024 edition of the Cannes Yachting Festival is guided by ongoing developments in the Vieux Port and the innovative spirit of the luxury yachting community. Sylvie Ernoult, Director of the festival, highlighted, “We managed to keep the same number of large yachts, around one hundred, lined up on the quays in front of the Palais des Festivals in the Vieux Port. All major brands and players in the yachting industry will be there this year.”
Highlight Features:
Redesigned Layout and Sea Trials
The redesigned layout of the festival aims to offer an enhanced visitor experience by segregating smaller boats into the new Power Boat Marina in Port Canto. Ernoult expressed her excitement about this change, stating, “The new Power Boat Marina will allow visitors to take a tour of Port Canto with an even clearer and simplified circuit. I am very excited about this design as it meets our exhibitors’ request to offer sea trials to their customers.”
Technology Advancements:
Embracing Eco-Friendly Innovations
The festival is also committed to showcasing the latest in eco-friendly yachting technology. This year’s event will feature the Innovation Route, highlighting groundbreaking advancements in sustainable boating. “It seemed important to us to make our contribution by highlighting the efforts and energies our exhibitors use in building the future of the marine sector,” Ernoult noted. Attendees can look forward to seeing innovative models like the hybrid Seadeck 6 from Azimut and the 100% solar electric Millikan M9.
Global Impact:
Attracting an International Audience
The Cannes Yachting Festival attracts visitors from over 130 countries, making it a truly global event. To accommodate this diverse audience, the festival has made several improvements based on feedback from previous years. “We’ve segmented the spaces to make it easier for visitors to move around and find or get to where they want to go,” said Ernoult. The festival will present a wide variety of boats, ensuring that there is something for every yachting enthusiast.
Exclusive Experiences:
VIP Treatments
VIP attendees are in for a treat with two categories of VIP tickets available. The VIP ticket provides access to exclusive areas, courtesy cars, sea shuttles, and concierge services. For an even more luxurious experience, the Platinum ticket includes a helicopter transfer from Nice airport, a guided tour of the show by boat, and lunch at high-end restaurants. Ernoult emphasized, “This select space has been designed to provide an exceptional high-end place to relax enhanced by an incredible 180° view of the harbour and the Mediterranean.”
Future Trends:
A Greener Yachting Industry
Looking ahead, Ernoult predicts a greener future for the yachting industry, driven by technological advances and a commitment to environmental preservation. “The yachting industry will undoubtedly become increasingly ‘green’ in the coming years,” she stated. The festival’s focus on eco-friendly innovations and new modes of boat usage reflects this trend.
The Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 promises to be an extraordinary event, blending innovation, luxury, and sustainability to meet the evolving desires of the global yachting community. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a luxury enthusiast, this year’s festival is set to offer an unforgettable experience.
For more information about the festival, visit the official Cannes Yachting Festival website:
https://www.cannesyachtingfestival.com.