2012 Cannes International Boat And Yacht Show Preview

To mark its 35th anniversary, the Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show unveiled a new image, but remaining true to its roots, this well-attended exhibition still is the launch pad for many of the models from European production boatbuilders.

By Yachts International Editors

August 9, 2012

To mark its 35Th anniversary, the Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show unveiled a new image, but remaining true to its roots, this well-attended exhibition still is the launch pad for many of the models from European production boatbuilders. This year, hundreds of boats of all sizes (583 were on display in 2011, including 173 making their world premiere) will compete for space in the town’s old port, or Vieux Port, and nearby Port Canto, dedicated to larger and brokerage yachts. Due to the proximity to the Monaco Yacht Show (see pages 65 to 78) this year, several of the new yachts to debut this fall will attend both shows. That is the case for the custom 197-foot (60-meter) Benetti Lyana, one of the largest yachts on display at Cannes this year, the newest Moonen, the new Wally Ace 26 and several more. A boat show is still the best place for buyers to get a feel for what may become their next boat, and the Cannes boat show makes it easier by allowing builders and brokers to take potential clients on sea trials. Visitors queue on floating docks while boats motor out and pass the time by casting a look at the newest craft. The challenge remains for boat sellers to convert the lookers into buyers. The 2012 Cannes boat show is September 11 to 16.

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