The Defining Yacht Shows Worth Having on Your Radar: a look ahead to September’s shows in Cannes, Southampton and Monaco
September is one of the most important months in the yachting calendar. Across the Côte d’Azur, the UK coastline and Monaco’s Port Hercule, the industry comes together to reveal new launches, discuss future projects and build the relationships that shape the season ahead.
First comes the Cannes Yachting Festival, from 8–13 September. Set across the Vieux Port and Port Canto, Cannes brings together an exceptional range of motor yachts, sailing yachts, multihulls, tenders and the specialist services behind them. It is a chance to see what is new, compare ideas in person and enjoy the particular energy of the Riviera at the beginning of the season.
From 18–27 September, the focus returns to the UK for the Southampton International Boat Show. With its waterfront setting, broad mix of marine brands and practical on-water experiences, Southampton remains an excellent place to explore the market at every level—from serious yacht conversations to the equipment, expertise and innovations that make time on the water more enjoyable.
Then, from 23–26 September, the Monaco Yacht Show brings the month to a close. The setting is unmistakable: Port Hercule, an extraordinary line-up of superyachts and a concentrated gathering of shipyards, brokers, designers and specialist advisers. For those considering purchase, charter, refit or simply looking to stay close to the direction of the market, Monaco offers a uniquely focused few days.
Cannes Yachting Festival
The Cannes Yachting Festival is where the Mediterranean yachting season really comes to life. Set against the backdrop of the French Riviera, the show brings together an impressive selection of new yachts, luxury motorboats, sailing yachts and tenders, making it an ideal place to explore the latest designs, technology and trends shaping the industry. Beyond the yachts themselves, Cannes offers a distinctly international atmosphere, attracting buyers, brokers, manufacturers and enthusiasts from across the world. For those considering their next yacht, it is a chance to see a huge variety of vessels in one location while experiencing the very best of the Riviera lifestyle.
Southampton International Boat Show
The Southampton International Boat Show offers something distinctly different, with a strong focus on the UK boating market and a fantastic mix of boats for coastal cruising, watersports, fishing and family use. From smaller day boats and RIBs through to larger motorboats and sailing yachts, the show provides an excellent opportunity to compare a wide range of boats and speak directly with manufacturers, brokers and marine specialists. Its location on the water also makes it particularly engaging, with visitors able to step aboard boats, explore the latest equipment and get a genuine feel for what is available in the UK market. For anyone looking to buy a boat in the UK, Southampton remains one of the key dates in the calendar.
Monaco Yacht Show
The Monaco Yacht Show represents the pinnacle of the luxury yachting world. Taking place in the iconic Port Hercules, Monaco brings together some of the most spectacular superyachts and luxury brands in the industry, alongside leading brokers, shipyards, designers and suppliers. While the scale and prestige of the yachts on display make it a must-visit event in its own right, the show is also an important meeting point for the international brokerage market. It provides a unique insight into the world of large yachts, new-build projects, charter opportunities and the latest developments in luxury yachting, all within the unmistakable setting of Monaco.
Buyers: look beyond the first impression
It is easy to fall for a beautiful boat. Frankly, that is part of the joy.
But when you view a boat this season, look for the details that shape the days you will actually have aboard. Where does everyone sit when the sun is at its strongest? Is there enough shade? Is there a quiet corner for reading, a practical place for towels, and room for the inevitable collection of bags, shoes and lifejackets?
Open the cupboards. Stand in the galley. Imagine making lunch while people move around you. Sit where you would sit underway. Step into the cabin and notice the light, ventilation and headroom.
A boat is not just a purchase. It is a small floating world—and it should feel easy to live in.
The right boat is rarely the one with the longest list of features. It is the one that makes you picture your next weekend before you have even left the pontoon.
Sellers: sell the feeling, not just the spec
A spotless deck and a polished hull matter. But the most powerful thing you can show a potential buyer is how well your boat lives.
This month gives you that opportunity.
Make the boat feel ready. Open the blinds. Let in the air. Set out the cockpit cushions. Clear away personal clutter, but do not strip out all warmth and character. A beautifully presented boat should invite someone to imagine their own summer aboard—not feel like a showroom they are afraid to touch.
If there is a wonderful anchorage nearby, mention it. If the boat is especially good for long lunches, family days, fishing trips or quiet weekends away, tell that story. Buyers may come looking for a particular model, but they often make a decision because they can see the life it offers them.
The best viewings leave someone thinking, “I can see us here.”
Are you heading to a boat show this September? Contact our team to see how we can guide you.
