For yacht enthusiasts, the thrill of navigating the open seas is matched only by the excitement of attending the world’s most prestigious yacht events.
These gatherings bring together yacht owners, industry professionals, and aficionados to celebrate the finest yachts, cutting-edge technology, and the vibrant culture surrounding luxury yachting.
In this article, we highlight the best yachting events and races you can’t miss, providing detailed insights into each event’s unique characteristics, scale, and appeal.
Table of Contents
1. Monaco Yacht Show
The Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) is arguably the most prestigious luxury yacht event in the world.
Held annually in the iconic Port Hercules, Monaco, this event showcases the largest collection of superyachts and luxury yachts, making it a must-attend for enthusiasts and industry leaders.
- Location: Port Hercules, Monaco
- Date: Late September
- Statistics: The 2025 edition will feature over 125 superyachts, with an average length of 160 feet (49 meters) and an estimated total value exceeding $4.3 billion.
- Key Highlights: MYS is known for unveiling new yacht models, hosting over 450 world-leading luxury companies, and attracting more than 30,000 visitors. The event includes a range of exhibitions, from shipyards and designers to luxury brands and high-end services.
Additionally, MYS offers bespoke experiences, such as private yacht viewings and exclusive cocktail receptions, providing an unparalleled networking platform.
With its glamorous backdrop and unparalleled offerings, the Monaco Yacht Show remains a crown jewel in the yachting calendar.
2. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Known as the “Yachting Capital of the World,” Fort Lauderdale hosts the largest in-water boat show globally—the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS).
Celebrating its 66th edition in 2025, FLIBS is an annual highlight that draws yachting enthusiasts from around the globe.
- Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
- Date: Late October to Early November
- Statistics: The event spans over 3 million square feet across seven different locations, featuring more than 1,500 boats and yachts, and over 1,200 exhibitors from 52 countries.
- Key Highlights: FLIBS showcases a wide array of vessels, from sportfishers to superyachts, with lengths ranging from 20 feet to over 300 feet. It also includes marine seminars, luxury yacht launches, and interactive exhibits, making it a comprehensive event for buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts alike.
With over 100,000 attendees annually, FLIBS offers an extensive market of marine accessories, electronics, and high-end watercraft.
This event is an ideal opportunity for both seasoned yacht owners and newcomers to explore the latest trends in the industry.
3. Cannes Yachting Festival
Held in the heart of the French Riviera, the Cannes Yachting Festival is Europe’s leading in-water boat show and one of the most glamorous yacht events in the calendar.
This event marks the opening of the yachting season and attracts a high-profile crowd.
- Location: Cannes, France
- Date: Early September
- Statistics: The 2025 edition will feature over 650 boats, including 140 world premieres, with lengths ranging from 30 to 160 feet. It draws over 54,000 visitors from 50 different countries.
- Key Highlights: The event is split across two ports: Vieux Port, which showcases motor yachts, and Port Pierre Canto, dedicated to sailing yachts. It offers sea trials, VIP programs, and the chance to meet world-class yacht designers and builders.
Additionally, the Cannes Yachting Festival is known for its elegant atmosphere, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
Renowned for its blend of luxury, innovation, and French elegance, this festival is a must-visit for anyone passionate about yachting.
4. Antigua Charter Yacht Show
The Antigua Charter Yacht Show is a key event in the charter industry, offering yacht brokers and charter professionals an exclusive opportunity to view some of the finest yachts available for charter.
- Location: Antigua, Caribbean
- Date: Early December
- Statistics: Over 100 luxury charter yachts ranging from 50 to 300 feet in length participate in this show, attracting more than 1,500 industry professionals.
- Key Highlights: The show includes yacht viewings, chef competitions, and broker familiarization trips, which are designed to enhance brokers’ understanding of the yachts available for charter.
It also features seminars and networking events, providing valuable insights into market trends and new opportunities in the charter industry.
The Antigua Charter Yacht Show is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful Caribbean setting, and professional focus, making it an essential event for anyone involved in yacht chartering.
5. Sydney International Boat Show
As the largest boat show in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sydney International Boat Show is an essential event for yachting enthusiasts. It combines a stunning location with a diverse range of exhibits, offering something for everyone.
- Location: Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia
- Date: Late July to Early August
- Statistics: This event features over 200 exhibitors and 1,000 boats, ranging from small dinghies to superyachts. It attracts more than 60,000 visitors annually.
- Key Highlights: The Sydney International Boat Show showcases the latest in boating, sailing, and marine technology, along with luxury yachts and watercraft. It also includes a comprehensive program of seminars, workshops, and live demonstrations, catering to both industry professionals and recreational boaters.
With its diverse range of exhibits and activities, this show offers a unique perspective on the global yachting scene, particularly for those interested in the Asia-Pacific market.
6. America’s Cup
The America’s Cup is the oldest and most prestigious yachting race in the world, drawing millions of viewers and featuring the world’s best sailors. The next edition will see teams from around the globe compete for the coveted trophy.
- Location: Barcelona, Spain (2025 edition)
- Date: Mid-2025
- Statistics: The race features state-of-the-art yachts capable of reaching speeds of over 50 knots, with a viewing audience estimated to exceed 200 million people worldwide.
- Key Highlights: The America’s Cup is renowned for its intense competition, cutting-edge technology, and strategic sailing. The event also includes a series of preliminary regattas leading up to the main race, providing excitement for fans and participants alike.
The America’s Cup is not just a race; it’s a celebration of innovation, teamwork, and the spirit of competition.
7. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is one of the most challenging and iconic offshore yacht races in the world.
Held annually, it draws sailors from around the globe to test their skills against the rugged conditions of the Tasman Sea.
- Location: From Sydney, Australia, to Hobart, Tasmania
- Date: Starting on December 26th (Boxing Day)
- Statistics: The race covers 628 nautical miles and typically features over 100 yachts, ranging from 30 to 100 feet in length.
- Key Highlights: Known for its unpredictable weather and challenging conditions, the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is a true test of endurance and sailing skill. The race attracts a diverse fleet, from professional racing yachts to amateur crews, and garners extensive media coverage worldwide.
With its combination of competitive sailing and breathtaking scenery, this race is a bucket-list event for many sailors.
8. Palma International Boat Show
Held in the Mediterranean’s yachting hub, the Palma International Boat Show is a premier event for sailing and motor yachts. It marks the start of the Mediterranean yachting season and is an important meeting point for industry professionals.
- Location: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
- Date: Late April to Early May
- Statistics: The show features over 250 yachts on display, including superyachts, and attracts more than 32,000 visitors annually.
- Key Highlights: The Palma International Boat Show showcases the latest in yachting technology, design, and innovation, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. It also offers sea trials, expert seminars, and networking opportunities, making it a key event for both yacht owners and professionals.
Palma’s unique blend of history, culture, and maritime tradition makes it a favorite among yachting enthusiasts.
9. Newport International Boat Show
The Newport International Boat Show is one of the largest and most significant in-water boat shows in the United States. Held in the historic city of Newport, Rhode Island, this event attracts a diverse range of exhibitors and visitors.
- Location: Newport, Rhode Island, USA
- Date: Mid-September
- Statistics: The show features over 600 exhibitors and more than 300 boats, ranging from 15 to 90 feet, and welcomes over 40,000 visitors annually.
- Key Highlights: Newport is renowned for its rich maritime history, and the show offers a range of boats, from sailboats to motor yachts. It also includes educational seminars, workshops, and product demonstrations, providing a comprehensive experience for attendees.
The Newport International Boat Show combines a unique setting with a wide range of activities, making it a must-visit for boating enthusiasts in North America.
10. St. Barths Bucket Regatta
The St. Barths Bucket Regatta is an invitation-only superyacht race held in the stunning waters around the Caribbean island of St. Barths. It is known for its combination of competitive racing and relaxed social atmosphere.
- Location: St. Barths, Caribbean
- Date: Late March
- Statistics: The regatta features around 40 superyachts, with lengths ranging from 100 to 300 feet.
- Key Highlights: The St. Barths Bucket Regatta is famous for its friendly yet competitive spirit, attracting some of the world’s most beautiful and advanced superyachts. The event includes a series of races, social gatherings, and charitable activities, creating a unique blend of sport and leisure.
This regatta offers a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s most impressive yachts in action while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Caribbean.
FAQs About Yachting Events
What is the best sailboat show in the world?
The Cannes Yachting Festival is often regarded as the best sailboat show in the world. Held in the picturesque French Riviera, it features a dedicated section for sailing yachts, showcasing both classic and modern designs. With over 140 world premieres, including many sailing yachts, the festival offers a unique blend of luxury, innovation, and French elegance.
What is the largest yacht show in Europe?
The Monaco Yacht Show is the largest yacht show in Europe. It features over 125 superyachts and attracts more than 30,000 visitors annually. Held in the glamorous setting of Port Hercules, Monaco, the show is known for its extensive range of luxury yachts, cutting-edge technology, and high-end services.
Which is the most famous yachting race?
The America’s Cup is the most famous yachting race in the world. It is the oldest international sporting trophy, dating back to 1851, and attracts the best sailors and cutting-edge yachts from around the globe. The America’s Cup is celebrated for its intense competition, innovative technology, and prestigious reputation.
