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From September 26 to October 4, Saint-Tropez will once again welcome the world?s most beautiful sailboats for the 28th edition of Les Voiles. No fewer than 253 vessels are expected, ranging from the most cutting-edge Maxis to century-old classic yachts, with the highlight being the gathering of three majestic J-Class yachts: Hanuman, Rainbow, and Svea.
50 Maxis?a possible record
There will be a particularly large number of large boats this year. Fifty Maxis are expected to compete, compared with 46 during the previous record set in 2022. Maxis are defined as sailboats longer than 18.28 m, divided into several categories based on their performance and rating rather than length alone.
The diversity of this fleet is expected to be one of the highlights of this year's event. The Hoek Atalante, a 39-meter yacht with a neoclassical design, will compete in the Maxi 5 class, while the very sporty Capricorno, a 25-meter yacht designed by Judel/Vrolijk, will compete in the Maxi 1 class.
Three Class Js Gathered in Saint-Tropez
Another highlight will be the presence of three Class J yachts: Hanuman, Rainbow, and Svea. These tall ships, which are a direct legacy of the America?s Cup?s history, are sure to provide some of the most spectacular sights of the week.
Svea?s presence will also provide the opportunity for a surprising encounter. Designed by Tore Holm in 1937 but not built until 2017 after the rediscovery of its plans, the Class J will sail alongside Svanevit, an 8-meter JI designed by the same architect. The two boats share a clear aesthetic resemblance despite their very different sizes. A ?family photo? is scheduled to take place in the port of Saint-Tropez.
80 traditional yachts and more than 20 that are over 100 years old
Les Voiles also remains one of the major international events in classic yachting. Some 80 traditional yachts are expected this year, including more than 20 boats that are over 100 years old.
They will race in the gulf, with the start line set off the Portalet Tower, continuing one of the event?s most iconic traditions. This fleet also reflects the renewed interest in the restoration and preservation of historic yachts.
This edition also coincides with the centennial of the International Mediterranean Committee for Classic Sailing. Approximately 1,100 boats worldwide have been classed according to its rules, and some 300 certificates are issued each year to allow participation in Mediterranean regattas.
The first edition without Patrice de Colmont
The 2026 edition will hold special significance. Patrice de Colmont, who founded the Nioulargue in 1981, passed away on October 11, 2025. Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is the direct successor to this regatta, which over the years has become a must-attend event in the international yachting calendar.
More than just a competition, Patrice de Colmont had fostered a spirit that blended regattas, camaraderie, and a certain detachment from the sometimes excessive seriousness of competition. This philosophy is still symbolized today by the Club 55 Cup and its famous challenges. The tradition will continue in 2026. In the Maxi class, Balthasar, the defending Maxi 72 champion, will take on the challenge from the Wally Cento Tilakkhana II. Rainbow and Hanuman, meanwhile, will face off in match racing, in a duel that will naturally evoke the origins of the J-Class in the America?s Cup.
In the classic yacht class, Mariella, a yawl designed by Mylne in 1938, will face off against Hallowe'en, a Bermudian cutter designed by Fife that will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026.
Wally Nano 37s are also going head-to-head
Challenge Day will also feature three Wally Nano 37s: Ges III, Katarina, and Nostromino II. These 37-foot one-design yachts, featuring a neoclassical style, were designed by Hoek Design.
Nostromino II will be crewed this year by an all-female crew. The new MK2 generation of the Nano 37 features, among other things, an electric propulsion system.
Nine days of regattas and challenges
Following the registration confirmations on September 26 and 27, the first races will begin on Monday, September 28, with the Maxis and Moderns. The various fleets will then take turns racing through Saturday, October 3, featuring the Rolex Trophy, the Club 55 Maxi Yachts Cup, the Club 55 Cup, the Gstaad Yacht Club Centenarians Trophy, and the traditional Challenge Day.
The Maxis will receive their awards on Saturday, October 3, while the awards ceremony for the Moderns and Classics will bring this 28th edition to a close on Sunday, October 4.
With a mix of modern racing boats, three majestic J-Class yachts, and a classic fleet of more than twenty century-old vessels, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will continue to celebrate what makes it unique: bringing together more than a century of yachting history on a single body of water.
