Recognised as one of the most important international boating events and Europe’s largest in-water show, the Cannes Yachting Festival is known for its eclecticism and the wealth of vessels presented in a range of sizes.
This week, more than 100 boats are make their world premiere at the show, positioned at each end of the famous Croisette. A collection of Australian boat builders and exhibitors are trading their wares on the world stage.
Riviera are showing off the 68 Sports Motor Yacht, the centrepiece of a two-model red-carpet display from the Australian builder that will also include the sophisticated 5400 Sport Yacht.
Maritimo is showcasing its M51 long range motor yacht, a vessel that hits the sweet spot for boat owners looking for all the benefits of a larger yacht in a more compact package.
However, the focus will be on presenting their new X-Series Sport Yacht range to an international audience. The brand will be providing information at the show on the X-Series, which includes the X60, the first model in the revolutionary new X-Series range, and designs for the X50 revealed at Sydney International Boat Show.
Even with all of these power yachts, sailing yachts aren’t forgotten. In fact, the Cannes Yachting Festival features more than 100 of them, including many multihulls.
Aussie multihull builders Seawind are showing off their new flagship 1600 catamaran. Designed by renowned naval architects Reichel Pugh, this 52 foot luxury catamaran is the perfect balance of cruising comfort and performance sailing.
Using high-end composite construction materials and techniques, the Seawind 1600 is pitched at the sailor who is looking for comfortable cruising with simple sailing systems, twin protected helms and a large open cockpit space, this blue water luxury cruising catamaran.
As Seawind’s flagship performance catamaran, this blue water cruiser offers state of the art equipment and a world class luxury fitout.
Wimbi Boats Australia are also showcasing their day boats and tenders on the famous marina at Cannes. Their display includes the W10, W9i and W7. Their most popular model, the W10, positions itself as an extension of the W9, with an additional 1.50 metres in length enabling further space to be cleared at the front for lunch. There is further space around the cockpit, the kitchen and the rear sun lounge.
Following the successful launch of the Luxury Gallery within the Palais des Festivals, the Cannes Yachting Festival is once again the main destination for luxury brands outside of – but aligned with – yachting.
On display are watches, jewellery, fine spirits, fashion and accessories, design, art, high-tech products, and services.
Returning for a fourth year, the Cannes Yachting Festival’s Concours d’Elegance competition provides a spectacle of rare vintage and modern-day boats. Luxury car brand Maserati is present as Official Partner of the Cannes Yachting Festival this year. At the festival's heart, in the Maserati lounge, all visitors will be able to examine the latest Maserati models.
Jack O’Rourke is a contributor to Ocean Media
WAVE GOODBYE
Just 10 entrants remain in the Golden Globe Race, with seven not expected to pass the first Cape. From 18 entrants, the fleet has been whittled down to 10, with all others retiring with boat problems or physical exhaustion. Unlike the Vendee and Volvo, sailors aren’t allowed any outside assistance unless its life threatening, replicating conditions of the original race in 1968.
The most recent sailor forced to retire was Norwegian Are Wiig, after dismasting, and is now safe and sound in Cape Town. Australian sailor mark Sinclair is still going, and is hopeful of reaching the Hobart gate.
LIFE LINE
Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club will host Matt Allen, Sydney Hobart legend and President of Australian Sailing, for their SOLAS dinner.
The CYCA SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Trust was established by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia following the loss of six lives in the 1998 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. The Trust assists the immediate families affected by tragedy at sea, provides assistance to search-and-rescue organisations, and foster research and training to improve procedures and equipment for use at sea.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the Silent Auction in support of CYCA SOLAS Trusts. The dinner will take place on the 23 November, with tickets on sale.
