Les Nauticales 2026: what conferences and speakers will be at La Ciotat?

© Maxime Leriche

At Nauticales in La Ciotat, the conference program accompanies the afloat exhibition. From April 14 to 19, 2026, a number of themes will punctuate the week. Navigation, the maritime economy and the environment make up a dense schedule.

Alongside the pontoons, Les Nauticales 2026 offers a series of conferences organized throughout the show, from April 14 to 19, 2026. Divided into daily themes, they provide additional insight into the boats on display.

Open to the sea and its uses

Tuesday April 14 kicks off the sequence, with a day dedicated to boating. A succession of presentations in the conference room and on the AMPM stand.

Isabelle Autissier opens the discussions with a speech focusing on the state of the sea and the link between navigation and environmental commitment. Later in the day, a round table brings together different sailor profiles, including Christopher Pratt and Nicolas Rouger, to discuss their relationship with the sea and their maritime careers.

At the same time, a job-dating session will bring together institutional players and job applicants to discuss the industry's professions.

An economic and professional reading of boating

On Wednesday April 15, the conferences focus on employment and the sector's economy. The "Parlons Mer" (Let's talk about the sea) format looks at new business models in the nautical sector.

These exchanges bring together professionals to discuss market developments, associated services and business prospects. This type of meeting enables manufacturers, institutions and local players to cross-fertilize their approaches.

Environment and coastal management on Thursday's agenda

Thursday April 16 is devoted to economic and environmental issues. A technical meeting presents the bay contract, with its objectives linked to water quality and pollution reduction.

On the same day, a conference organized by the Blue Odyssée association looked at concrete solutions to marine pollution. The talk is based on experience feedback and initiatives already deployed, notably in the Mediterranean.

Feedback from committed sailors

Friday, April 17, highlights the careers of sailors. Nicolas Rouger presents his project "Demain c'est loin", with a look back at the preparation of a long-distance sailing program.

These formats enable us to tackle the realities of sailing, between technical preparation, personal commitment and the constraints of the open sea.

Associations and local initiatives take center stage

On Saturday, April 18, the program gives a voice to maritime associations. The "Parlons Mer" (Let's talk about the sea) format highlights actions linked to coastal protection, maritime education and transmission.

On the same day, Henri Cosquer talks about the cave that bears his name. He looks back on his diving explorations and the discovery of this submerged site, with a focus on access conditions and the constraints of the underwater environment.

Closing with the sea and its stories

Sunday April 19 continues this theme with a new talk by Henri Cosquer. The talk looks back at his career as a professional diver and his first forays into the cave.

Organized in a conference room, these meetings structure the end of the show, with an approach more focused on exploration stories and field experience.

Please note, registration required on the show website.

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