Today the Regates Royale – Trophee Panerai begins in Cannes in the French Riviera and continues through until the end of September. This is the 31st occasion on which the majestic resort of Cannes has hosted the annual event.
The sun is shining upon the bay of Cannes this morning and warm, sunny weather is forecast through to Friday. With light winds due to rise in the afternoon we are expecting a perfect beginning to this spectacular event. Spectators can look forward to a sight of rare beauty, combining fabulous yachts and some of the most stunning coastal scenery in France.
The regatta includes over one hundred and fifty crews sailing traditional sailing boats, Metre classes and Dragons, all of which will race in the bay of Cannes and around the Levin islands. Amongst the boats will be Moonbeam 14, Moonbeam five, iii, Avel, Thendara and the cream of the worlds sailors will compete for the Regates Royales Trophee Panerai.
Also in Cannes this week will be the Pen Duick fleet, Pen Duicl, Pen Duick ii, Pen Duick v and Pen Duick vi of Eric Tabarly fame as well as the stunning dragons designed by the Norwegian Johan Anker in 1929. This highly successful event will embody the roaring twenties yachting era with many of the worlds great sailing vessels on show.
The quay at Cannes is set next to the famous Palais des festivals which hosts numerous events throughout the year, most notably the Cannes film festival. Next to the Palais is a beautiful sandy beach backed by the croisette promenade lined with numerous cafes and restaurants along with world famous hotels including the Majestic and the Carlton. In the other direction there is the old harbour beyond which is the beautiful old town of Le Suquet with its stunning castle and church set on the hill.
There is so much to do during the day and evening in Cannes which is a warren of streets of charmingly varying character from the narrow atmospheric Le Suquet to the modern areas behind the main hotels all with a certain sophistication which is at the same time relaxed.
It is worth checking in with the Cannes Tourist office which is in the Palais for a Regatta program and at the same time ask them which way the boats will turn when they leave harbour so that you can position yourself for an optimum view. The boats will return and do the famous sail past opposite the Croisette. To view photographs of the start of Wednesdays view our Cannes regatta facebook album.
At Villas du Monde - Villas Worldwide we have a fine range of self catering properties in the French Riviera including a selection of luxury rental properties in Cannes. Please call using our freephone service or email and we will help you find suitable accommodation and offer any advise you need regarding the latest regatta or other events in the area.