120 competitors are expected to take part in the 45th edition of the Régates Royales, which is set to get underway in Cannes at the weekend. 

The event, organised by the Cannes Yacht Club (CYC), is the biggest meeting of classic sailing boats in the world.

Vessels of up to 55 metres long and capable of navigating in winds above 20 knots, as well as former champions of the America’s Cup, will be in competition in the Bay of Cannes. The famous 12 MIJ from the America’s Cup (1958 to 1987) will compete, whilst mythical vessels such as French Kiss, Kiwi Magic and South Australia will also all be present.

“I must admit that I can’t wait for the first departures and for the show to start in the bay of Cannes,” says CYC president Jean-François Cutugno.

A sailing biopic to be premiered at the event

Fittingly, given that Cannes is a city synonymous with cinema, the film ‘Flo’, a biopic on the navigator Florence Arthaud, will be premiered at the Palais des Festivals. Its director, Géraldine Danon, will make an appearance at the screening on Wednesday 27th September.

Rugby fans needn’t chosen between a great day out enjoying the sailing and the World Cup matches as a dedicated fan zone will be set up at the event, where each meet will be screened.

The Régates Royales will be taking place between Sunday 24th and Saturday 30th September. Click here for the full programme of events.

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Photo credit: Sergio Gibellini