A not-so-smooth reorganization of ports
Despite efforts to achieve a better distribution of exhibitors and a clearer visitor path between the Old Port and Port Canto, the new configuration did not convince all participants. The segmentation of boats, with 360 units in the Old Port and 340 in Port Canto, exacerbated the difficulties of exchanging between the two areas. Several visitors pointed to a lack of clarity in signage information, and waits for maritime shuttles, making the visit sometimes laborious. The distances to be covered, over 2.5 km between the two ports, put a strain on both individual and professional visitors, slowing down the discovery of all the zones.
Power Boat Marina: a partial success
The Power Boat Marina in Port Canto, a new feature of this year's event, brought together 175 motorboats in an area of almost 3,000 m². Despite its ambition, this space did not fully meet expectations. Admittedly, the diversity of models and the possibility of sea trials aroused considerable interest, but several exhibitors expressed reservations about the quality of the display, particularly with regard to restricted visibility. The positioning between the Sailing area and the Yacht Brokerage area also added to the confusion of visitors, contributing to a general feeling of dispersion.
Environmental efforts remain timid
The festival highlighted the "Innovation Route", dedicated to eco-responsible solutions to the boating industry's growing environmental challenges. However, these efforts, while appreciated, still seem insufficient. The emphasis placed on decarbonization and innovative materials did not convince all visitors, with some complaining of a lack of overall coherence between the messages and practices on display.
A sharp rise in pricing
The 2024 edition also shows a clear increase in admission prices compared to previous years, with a 30% increase over 2023. Since 2021, there has been a gradual increase in the price, from ?28 to ?39, reflecting both the rising costs of organization, new infrastructures and services on offer, but also a tendency to value the event as a premium experience. But doesn't this discourage newcomers to boating?
Visitor numbers on the rise
However, the trend in visitor numbers to the Cannes Yachting Festival over the last five years reflects both the growing popularity of the event. After 2020, when the show did not take place due to COVID, visitor numbers continue to rise (organization figures), from 45,000 in 2021 to 55,000 in 2024. It now remains to take the pulse of the professionals present at the show to validate these figures, and to see in what proportion they translate into boat sales...
