The Burgess Guide to Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta

Set your social compass for the South of France and head to the pretty port of Saint-Tropez for the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. From 26 September through to 6 October, this prestigious regatta welcomes more than 250 sailing yachts to race together in the bay of Saint-Tropez.

Origins of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta

Originating from a chance meeting in 1981 when Patrice de Colmont of Club 55 challenged two skippers of two sailing boats – Pride, a Swan 44, and Ikra, a 12-metre JI – to race from the village of Saint-Tropez around the Nioulargo finishing in front of Club 55 at Pampelonne Beach. Here the winning yacht Ikra was rewarded with a silver platter and a free lunch at the famed Le Club 55 beach club. The following year the losing skipper (and owner) of Pride challenged Ikra to a re-run, and so began the story of the iconic Nioulargue Regatta.

Inviting maxis to join the year after, the event was then registered on the official maxi class calendar in 1983, and just a year later so popular was its unique spirit, camaraderie and jovial atmosphere, that the event introduced categories such as sea explorers, tropéziens-travail and tropéziens-marconi.

After a few years hiatus following a collision, the regatta began again, evolving into Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez in 1999. Attracting more and more participants and spectators year on year, the event now sees more than 250 sailing yachts in every size racing across seven performance classes.

Key facts about the Saint-Tropez sailing Regatta

From classic wooden sailing yachts steeped in history, to state-of-the-art carbon racing machines, the diverse fleet of classic and contemporary sailboats racing in the Bay of Saint-Tropez is a sight to behold. Join the celebrations as a spectator or participant and experience the thrill of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2024.

Saint-Tropez racing week programme

The armada of classic yachts anticipated for 2024 promises to be spectacular, with many of the fleet over a hundred years old battling it out to make further history. Registrations take place between 28–30 September, with evening entertainment throughout the event including live music, a Boules competition, children's parade and various prize giving ceremonies.

Racing commences on 1 October with the Classic yachts race, followed by the Rolex Trophy and the Maxis and Modern yachts racing over the course of the next seven days. The week-long racing then comes to a close on 6 October with a prize giving ceremony.

How do I get to Saint-Tropez?

Once a quaint little fishing village, the coastal town of Saint-Tropez has managed to retain its charm thanks to its relatively remote location on the popular French Riviera. The closest international airport is Nice, which is located around 60 miles from the port, and can be reached in part by motorway and then a single carriage road. The last part of the journey can be problematic with heavy traffic, so the most convenient way to travel to Saint-Tropez is by yacht or helicopter transfer from Nice Airport.

What to wear to the Saint-Tropez sailing Regatta?

There is no official dress code for those attending Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez as a spectator, but bear in mind that while autumn sees temperatures drop from soaring peak-summer highs, the average daily temperature ranges between 19°C and 24°C. Lightweight clothing is therefore advisable, along with comfortable shoes, and a pair of binoculars.

During the evening, there is no attire required, but if you are a guest on a yacht then they may have their own specific dress code, and you may need a jacket or sweater in the evening. Participants, including race crew, will usually be given a team racing kit to wear throughout the ten days.

Onshore festivities at the Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta

Soak up the atmosphere of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez from the Old Port of Saint-Tropez. The beautiful setting plays host to the regatta each evening with parades, musical entertainment, and parties taking place around the harbour.

What else can I do whilst at the Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta?

Once a quiet fishing village, Saint-Tropez shot to fame in the 1950s when it became the backdrop for the film Et Dieu… créa le femme (And God Created Woman), starring Brigitte Bardot. Its star appeal has shimmered ever since. Spend time in the old town, venture around the headland to Pampelonne beach, or escape to the sun-drenched Îles d’Hyères islands that lie just off the coast.

Sightseeing around Saint-Tropez

The storied French seaside town has more to it than just its hip beach clubs and glitz and glamour. Its cobbled streets have inspired artists the likes of Picasso and Matisse, while the vintage buildings house a number of museums alongside designer boutiques. During race days, climb the hill to the 16th century Citadel that sits atop Saint-Tropez for stunning views across the bay – a great spot to watch the action unfold. Or take some time away from the sailing and explore the Citadel’s dungeons, which also play host to the Maritime History Museum. Back in town, the Place des Lices is a must-visit. Right in the heart of the village, the centuries-old plane trees here provide shade for Saint-Tropez’s main market (Tuesdays and Saturdays), as well as a venue for both boules players and cafés.

Go shopping on Rue François Sibilli

Well known for its fashion and shopping, the picturesque cobblestone streets of Saint-Tropez are filled with both designer and independent boutiques. Rue François Sibilli is where the big-name brands have their flagship stores, with iconic labels such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Dior all having a notable presence. Stepping into Dior is an event in itself – housed in an 18th century townhouse, the boutique also has a stunning garden restaurant that is open throughout the summer season, closing mid-October.

Sample the local cuisine

Sail around the French Riviera onboard a luxury superyacht rental

Whether you are visiting Saint-Tropez for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, or incorporating the seaside resort into a yacht charter along the French Riviera, this sun-soaked corner of southeast France is a quintessential playground for superyachts. The 40 miles of coastline has been the epicentre of yachting for decades, attracting some of the finest vessels to its shores. If you have time either side of the regatta, Burgess can certainly recommend the best Riviera hotspots to visit during a luxury yacht charter.

Discover more superyacht and yachting events with Burgess.

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