Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2025: Elegance, Power & Spectacle at Sea

Jameson Farn
3 days ago
3 min read

Each autumn, as the light softens and the summer crowds thin, Saint-Tropez transforms into the stage for one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful sailing events. From Saturday 27 September to Sunday 5 October 2025, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will once again capture that unique blend of grace, competition, tradition, and festivity that has made it a highlight of the Côte d’Azur calendar.

A Tradition of Excellence

Founded in 1999 by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez (NSNT), the event carries forward the spirit of the Nioulargue, first held in 1981. Its soul lies not only in racing but also in atmosphere — a celebration of camaraderie, fair play, and the timeless beauty of yachts under sail.

Every year, the spectacle brings together an extraordinary fleet: modern yachts, soaring maxi yachts, and classic sailing boats, some with more than a century of history.

The 2025 Fleet

This 27th edition will see around 250 to 300 boats take part. Dozens of yachts over 20 meters will be present, ranging from sleek Maxis to traditional wooden beauties. Among the standout entries this year is the arrival of Magic Carpet E, a strikingly modern yacht that embodies cutting-edge design.

With more than 3,500 sailors and crew members expected, the event promises to be both international in scope and spectacular in scale.

Daily Program Highlights

The races are structured so that each fleet — Maxis, Moderns, and Traditionals — has its moment to shine. Here is the day-by-day program:

Saturday 27 September – Arrival of the boats in Saint-Tropez: Maxis, Modern yachts, and Tradition/Classic yachts up to around 18 meters.
Sunday 28 September – Final registrations, along with the arrival of the YCF Autumn Cup fleet sailing in from Cannes.
Monday 29 September – First races for Maxi and Modern yachts.
Tuesday 30 September – All fleets (Modern, Maxi, and Tradition) compete, with the Rolex Trophy beginning for the Classic yachts.
Wednesday 1 October – Racing continues for Moderns and Traditionals, while the Maxi yachts take a rest day.
Thursday 2 October – The iconic Challenge Day featuring the Club 55 Cup for both Modern and Classic yachts. Traditionals also race in the Centenary Regatta, organized with the Gstaad Yacht Club. Maxi yachts return to the water.
Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October – More racing for all categories, with the Rolex Trophy building toward its climax.
Sunday 5 October – Final day of racing and prize-giving ceremonies for Modern and Traditional yachts. The Maxis will have their awards ceremony the evening before.
On Land: The Village & Festivities
The heart of the event on shore is the Village des Voiles, open daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (closing early at 17:00 on the final day). Entry is free, and visitors can enjoy exhibitor stands, live music in the evenings, and the vibrant ambiance that fills the port and old town throughout the regatta.
Evenings are marked by special events and celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere that makes Saint-Tropez so unique during these nine days.
What Makes 2025 Special
- A fleet that unites century-old classics with ultra-modern designs, showcasing sailing’s evolution.
- The debut of Magic Carpet E, a modern marvel that will draw attention on and off the water.
- The sheer scale of participation — with thousands of crew and sailors — promises a spectacle like few others in the sailing world.
Practical Information
- Where: Port de Saint-Tropez and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
- When: 27 September – 5 October 2025.
- Village Opening: 9:00–21:00 daily (until 17:00 on the final day).
- Entry: Village des Voiles is free for the public; boat participation is by invitation and registration only.
- Atmosphere: Expect a lively mix of sport and celebration. Bring light layers for the sea breeze, enjoy the quayside cafés, and take in the spectacle both on the water and in town.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
For sailors, Les Voiles offers some of the best racing conditions in the Mediterranean. For spectators, it’s a rare chance to see elegant classics alongside cutting-edge yachts, all set against the golden autumn light of the French Riviera.
It’s not just a regatta; it’s a lifestyle event — blending sport, heritage, and celebration. For Saint-Tropez, it is the perfect farewell to summer before the quiet of winter sets in.