Every year, as September gives way to October, Saint-Tropez takes on a different character. The intensity of the summer season gradually fades, while the first sails begin to appear on the horizon.
From September 26 to October 4, 2026, more than 250 yachts will make their way to Saint-Tropez for the 28th edition of Les Voiles, organised by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez.
For nine days, Moderns, Maxis and Traditional yachts will share the same waters, a distinctive feature that has become part of the event’s identity. Yet to consider Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez simply as a sailing competition would be to miss much of what makes it special. Over the years, it has become one of the most anticipated events of the Mediterranean late season, a week during which the village seems to reconnect with its original identity, one deeply rooted in the sea.
It all began on September 29, 1981.
That day, two yachts took up a challenge: Pride, an American Swan 44, and Ikra, a 12 Metre JI. The idea could hardly have been simpler. Set off from Saint-Tropez, round the Nioulargo shoal and sail on to Pampelonne, finishing in front of Club 55.
From this friendly challenge between sailors came the Nioulargue, which would grow to become one of the Mediterranean’s great sailing events. Following a hiatus in the 1990s, its spirit was revived in 1999 under a new name: Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.
The formula itself has never really changed. Different generations, designs and sailing cultures come together on the same waters, while preserving the balance of competition and conviviality that defined the earliest editions.
More than four decades after that first challenge, the event has become firmly woven into the history of Saint-Tropez.
The 28th edition promises to be particularly spectacular. Almost 50 Maxis are expected in the Gulf, including some of the most competitive yachts on the international circuit. The Maxi 1 class will compete for the Edmond de Rothschild Trophy, while 2026 also marks 150 years of the Gitana story initiated by the Edmond de Rothschild family.
Much of the attention, however, will be focused on the return of the J Class. Three of these giants are expected in Saint-Tropez. Originally developed in the 1930s to compete in the America’s Cup, J Class yachts hold a unique place in yachting history. Their proportions, immense sail plans and remarkably slender lines have made them true icons of naval architecture.
Alongside them, the Traditional yachts are a reminder that Les Voiles also plays an important role in preserving maritime heritage. On Thursday, October 1, the Gstaad Yacht Club Centenary Trophy will bring together yachts more than a century old for a pursuit race.
Once again, boats designed generations apart will find themselves sailing the same waters.
From Monday, September 28, the Gulf will come alive with the first Maxi and Modern races, followed by the arrival of the classic yachts the next day. Throughout the week, racing will take place off Saint-Tropez and Pampelonne, punctuated by some of the event’s most emblematic fixtures. The Rolex Trophy, the legendary Club 55 Cup and the Gstaad Yacht Club Centenary Trophy will be among the highlights of this 28th edition.
The final races will take place on Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3, followed by the prize-giving ceremonies that will bring Les Voiles to a close on Sunday, October 4.
There is something quite particular about discovering Saint-Tropez at this time of year. Les Voiles belong to this side of Saint-Tropez. A more maritime, more intimate Saint-Tropez.
It is also a time that reminds us that the peninsula is no longer defined by the summer season alone. Saint-Tropez is enjoyed well beyond July and August. Its properties, gardens, beaches and villages form a landscape whose appeal perhaps becomes even more apparent once summer has passed.
This close relationship with the sea and the landscape has long contributed to the appeal of luxury real estate in Saint-Tropez. As in Ramatuelle, Gassin and Grimaud, proximity to the sea remains central to the area’s most sought-after addresses. Villas overlooking the Gulf, properties close to Pampelonne and houses just minutes from the village each offer their own expression of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
With a presence in Saint-Tropez and throughout the French Riviera, Magrey & Sons has been assisting French and international clients in the search and sale of exceptional properties for more than 50 years.
As Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2026 approaches, the Gulf is preparing once again for one of its most remarkable spectacles. And for a few days, all eyes will simply turn to the sea. Contact us for a villa rental for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.
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