Summer will never end! - Autumn events
- Valéry PLATON
- Nov 13, 2025
- 4 min read
When the calendar turns to autumn, many think the boating season is coming to an end. Harbors become less lively, beaches empty, and the days grow shorter. Yet, for boating and sailing enthusiasts, autumn is far from a mere interlude. Quite the opposite: it's a vibrant season, marked by unmissable events that extend the magic of summer. Legendary regattas, boat shows, maritime fairs, and used boat markets—everything happens back-to-back between September and November. A way of proclaiming loud and clear that at sea, "summer never ends . "
The Sails of Saint-Tropez
Every October, Saint-Tropez becomes the epicenter of the sailing world. Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is more than just a regatta; it's a celebration, a grand gathering for enthusiasts of all things that move on the water. On the waters of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, you'll find everything from century-old classic yachts to ultramodern superyachts. The spectacle is twofold: at sea, where dozens of crews from around the globe compete, and on land, where the quays resonate with laughter, music, and encounters between sailing enthusiasts.
Created in the late 1980s, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez perpetuates a tradition of elegance and conviviality. Spectators can admire true floating works of art, such as majestic schooners or meticulously restored legendary sailboats. But the event is not reserved for an elite: the atmosphere remains festive, almost familial, and everyone can experience this unique blend of maritime history and modernity. For many, these regattas extend the summer spirit on the French Riviera, at a time when autumn is still only hinted at by softer light.
Every year, at the start of the academic year, La Rochelle becomes the Atlantic capital of yachting with the Grand Pavois, one of the largest in-water boat shows in Europe. The 2025 edition will be held from September 23 to 28 at the Port des Minimes and promises to be a major event for sea enthusiasts, professionals, and the simply curious.
With over 800 exhibiting brands and nearly 700 boats on display, including 300 afloat, the Grand Pavois offers a comprehensive overview of the nautical world: sailboats, motorboats, equipment, services, and technological innovations. This show is a true international showcase where shipyards, distributors, and visitors from all over the world come together.
Beyond the impressive figures, the event captivates with its unique atmosphere. The walkways of the Port des Minimes are transformed into a place of discovery, encounters, and exchanges. Visitors can test boats, attend demonstrations, discover eco-friendly innovations, and share their passion with renowned sailors.
The Grand Pavois is not just a trade show: it's a maritime festival that brings together the nautical community in all its diversity. For the locals of La Rochelle, as well as for enthusiasts from afar, it embodies one certainty: in La Rochelle, the ocean is always on display.
If autumn has its king, it is undoubtedly Le Mille Sabords , in Arzon, in the Gulf of Morbihan.
This used boat show is unique in Europe. Every year, it brings together several hundred boats, from small, comfortable sailboats to imposing yachts, including more unusual vessels. The event attracts an eclectic crowd: young couples looking for their first boat, families wanting to upgrade, and seasoned sailors hoping to find a bargain. But beyond the transactions, Le Mille Sabords is a true maritime celebration.
The docks fill with visitors, equipment manufacturers' stands offer demonstrations and advice, and numerous activities punctuate the days: conferences, workshops, and meetings with sailors. The atmosphere is friendly, welcoming, almost festive. Here, there's no distinction between professionals and amateurs: everyone comes together around the same passion. The Mille Sabords perfectly illustrates the idea that autumn is a season full of life and energy for boating.
From October 16th to 19th, 2025, the port of Canet-en-Roussillon will host the 10th edition of the Multihull and Refit Show, a unique event in the Mediterranean entirely dedicated to catamarans, trimarans, and refit services. This event has become a must for anyone who dreams of multihulls, whether they are buyers, sellers, or simply enthusiasts.
The concept is clear: to offer, all in one place, a diverse selection of pre-owned multihulls available immediately, and to showcase refit specialists who can breathe new life into these boats. Visitors can compare vessels afloat or ashore, speak directly with professionals, and plan their next nautical project.
This show stands out for its friendly and specialized atmosphere. A far cry from the international giants, it offers a more intimate setting where every visitor can ask technical questions, receive expert advice, and benefit from genuine expertise. The multihull sector, booming for several years now, finds a showcase perfectly suited to its needs: a space that combines comfort, innovation, and a connection to the open sea.
Between buying opportunities and technical discoveries, Les Occasions du Multicoque et du Refit confirms each autumn that the Mediterranean is an ideal playground for lovers of double hulls.
From October 29 to November 2, 2025, Cap d'Agde will be alive with sailing, yachting, and marine innovation during the 26th edition of the Autumn Boat Show. Free and open to the public, this annual event takes place over five days during the All Saints' Day weekend.
Organised by the Association of Nautical Professionals of Cap d'Agde, in partnership with the City, the Department of Hérault and the Occitanie Region, the show brings together more than 200 exhibitors who present a rich offer: nearly 500 new and used boats are offered for sale, as well as all nautical equipment, accessories, specialized services.
Beyond the exhibition stands, the Autumn Boat Show is also a space for sharing: conferences and workshops on the sea, onboard safety, nautical professions, and eco-responsible innovations punctuate the days. This year, Jean Le Cam, the exceptional sailor, is the patron of the event. He will share his perspective on offshore racing, the open sea, and maritime commitment.
Located in the Port's Technical Zone (9 Avenue de la Jetée, 34300 Agde), the show welcomes approximately 50,000 visitors each year. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, it offers everyone – amateurs, the curious, or professionals – the opportunity to discover the latest nautical trends, dream about boats afloat or ashore, and immerse themselves in the maritime spirit that only the Mediterranean can provide.
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