Cannes Yachting Festival and Southampton Boat Show Embrace Sustainable Boating

The 49th Cannes Yachting Festival ran from 8 to 13 September, promoting a "slow boating" concept that favours short‑leg cruising, reduced fuel use and greater attention to marine environments. Under new director Constance Brément, the event highlighted hybrid‑electric vessels such as Jeanneau’s Sea Loft 480 and showcased marina upgrades, including a €63 million expansion at Marina Baie des Anges.

The Southampton International Boat Show, held from 18 to 27 September at Mayflower Park, featured more than 300 exhibitors and the UK debut of Fairline’s Targa 58 GTO motor yacht, described by co‑CEO Oliver Southwell as offering an immersive sea‑level experience. New marine equipment from Icom UK was also displayed. Both events underscored a broader shift toward responsible, experience‑focused boating among enthusiasts across Europe.