Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez: The Biggest Maritime Event in France 


With thousands of skippers and sailors flocking the French Riviera from around the world, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez (previously known as “la Nioulargue) is definitely one of the most significant events of the summer season and a must-see on the water in France. Every year, since 1981, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez offers a visual spectacle that’s hard to beat. Some 300 of the most impressive racers of world-renowned fame with the most gorgeous classic boats and schooners (as well as Walleys and the most technologically advanced yachts) meet to compete in the waters of Saint Tropez with the chance to win the much-desired Rolex Trophy.

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The prestigious trophies itself, as well as the thrill of the experience, are just some of the reasons that draw sailing enthusiasts to this place every year. When the dust settles and the race is over, everybody has the opportunity to sunbathe and enjoy a relaxing, fun time in one of the French Riviera’s hidden delights, Port Grimaud, where they can park their boat right next to their holiday residence, the cafe they enjoy a sip of tasty coffee or a cold beer, the restaurant that overlooks the canals. The picturesque so-called lagoon village enchants with its raw beauty, scenic waterways, Venetian-style architecture, colorful facades, and unique design that allows you to moor your boat everywhere you go. It speaks of the French culture so loud that it can deafen you the most remarkable way! No wonder it is a pole of attraction for thousands of visitors that want to infuse themselves in nature and the unique atmosphere of a French village, every single year.

Orchestrated by Sociètè Nautique de Saint-Tropez, this year’s regatta looked much more promising than ever before right from the start. We saw new additions to the fleet that provided an unmatchable combination of performance and beauty, taking the 4-day competition to an upper level.

If you want to absorb the event that has become a major rendezvous in the Mediterranean, head to Port Grimaud and get ready to photograph and film the marine show. There are always boats that shuttle from the Little Venice and go right to the heart of the event offering heart-stopping panoramas along the way. That aside, there are several on-shore events and coastal races that take place during Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, where you can see a total of 4-5 races of traditional boats and modern yachts that run separately. And, let’s not forget the Grand Village that features entertainment at its bar terrace throughout the event!