The Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 will put motor boats firmly in the spotlight, with nearly 535 new models from three to 50 metres expected and almost 120 world premieres among them.
Spread between the Vieux Port and Port Canto, the motor boat display will range from dayboats and RIBs to power catamarans and superyachts, reflecting manufacturers’ increasing focus on autonomy, long-range cruising, flexible accommodation and more efficient operation.
Irish brokers represented at the Frecnh port inlcude MGM Boats, BJ Marine and Crosshaven Boatyard.
Vieux Port Hosts Larger Motor Yachts
The Vieux Port will accommodate a selection of motor boats from 12 to 50 metres, alongside marine equipment manufacturers, marinas and service companies. It will also host the Power Cat Village, where around 30 power catamarans are expected to demonstrate the continuing growth of the multihull motor yacht sector.
Big Boat Showcase: Motor yachts line the Vieux Port, where Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 will display boats from 12 to 50 metres alongside marine equipment and services. Photo: Kelagopian
At Port Canto, the Power Boat Marina will feature nearly 180 dayboats and other motor boats up to 13 metres.
Cruising Trends Shape New Designs
Organisers say changing expectations among boat owners are increasingly influencing new designs, particularly demand for greater autonomy, longer cruising ranges and more adaptable living spaces.
Opening interiors towards the sea, greater customisation, and reduced environmental impact are also becoming more prominent as manufacturers develop boats intended to function as living spaces as much as a means of transport.
Almost 120 World Premieres
“Motor boats are central at the Cannes Yachting Festival,” said Constance Brément, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival.
“Exhibited between the Vieux Port and Port Canto, dayboats, semi-rigid boats, catamarans and superyachts demonstrate the exceptional diversity of the offer presented. “The many innovations unveiled this year, including almost 120 world premieres, allow visitors to see the major developments in the sector, in terms of performance, comfort, design and innovation.”
The scale of the 2026 display makes Cannes one of the principal opportunities of the European boat show season to see new motorboat designs afloat, from compact dayboats through to large luxury yachts.
