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The 2024 edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez promises an exceptional rendezvous for yachting enthusiasts. This year, the event celebrates its 25th anniversary with a spectacular fleet of 250 yachts in various classes: Moderns, Maxis and Classic Yachts. For sailing enthusiasts, this is an event not to be missed, bringing together professional sailors, enlightened amateurs and international sailing icons.
Meticulous organization for a major regatta
From Saturday September 28, the Modern yachts will start the first races at 11:00 am in front of the Tour du Portalet. They will be followed by the Maxis, impressive yachts over 18.28 meters long, which will compete from midday. The traditional yachts will make their debut on October 1, offering the public a plunge into the elegant world of vintage yachts. The Pampelonne waterway will be particularly busy, allowing the larger yachts to race in a safe environment, sometimes on coastal courses, sometimes on "banana" courses.
A technical aspect not to be overlooked is the division of the Maxis into two groups: one group will compete in coastal races, while the other will take part in classic regattas. This makes for smoother competition and optimum safety management, especially for these boats, which reach impressive speeds on the water. The lighter, more reactive boats in the Moderne category will sail shorter, but equally technical courses.
The appeal of nautical challenges and private competitions
On Wednesday October 2, the calendar features exclusive races such as the Club 55 Paul Watson Maxi Yachts Cup reserved for Maxis. These competitions, based on a friendly tradition initiated at the first Nioulargue in 1981, feature clashes between gentlemen that culminate in a convivial meal at the legendary Club 55 in Saint-Tropez. Lovers of maritime history can also attend the Trophée Gstaad Yacht Club, a regatta reserved for century-old yachts, demonstrating that vintage yachts still have their place in modern competition.
Men and legends of sailing
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is also about encounters and famous faces. Maxime Sorel, one month away from his second Vendée Globe, will be present to reinforce the crew of the Nacira 47 Swell. The event also brings together other iconic sailing figures such as Lionel Péan and Jean-Pierre Dick, both regular participants in major international races.
In addition to sailing professionals, this 25th edition will see the participation of icons from other worlds. Simon Le Bon, lead singer of Duran Duran, and Pete Townshend, guitarist of The Who, will be taking part in the regattas aboard magnificent 1930s Marconi sloops. These encounters between sailing enthusiasts and stars contribute to the unique atmosphere of Les Voiles, where performance meets conviviality.
Honouring vintage Auric yachts
This year, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will feature the Auric Epoch class for the prestigious Rolex Trophy. This category comprises century-old yachts, mostly built on the East Coast of the United States in the early 20th century. Yachts such as Joyant, Chips and Corinthian will compete with beauty and technique, in regattas where strategy is paramount. These intricately-rigged yachts require special know-how to maneuver in all wind conditions.
This year's innovations
In this anniversary year, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is also focusing on ecology and modernity. For several editions now, race information has been accessible via a unique QR code, reducing paper consumption. Results and jury opinions are updated directly on dedicated digital platforms, making them easy for participants and the public to consult.
