Paris 2024 Olympics: A Summer of Sailing

Just months before the highly anticipated 2024 Paris Olympics this summer, an impressive 19th-century three-masted schooner carried the sacred Olympic flame into France’s second largest and oldest city, the port of Marseille. The torch’s journey will visit various historic sites and towns of France and its territories, eventually ending up in Paris on July 26 for the official Opening Ceremony.

While the city of love may be taking most of the spotlight, some 500 miles further south in Marseille, the final preparations are now underway to host the prestigious Olympic World Sailing events. From July 28 to August 8, this multicultural hub that borders the French Riviera will showcase the pinnacle of sailing. With the exceptional sailing conditions and cities’ expertise in organising events, the games will be based at the iconic Roucas-Blanc Marina.

Although temporary elevated stands overlooking the sea will be available for visitors to witness the action, the best front-row seats will be on a superyacht here. There will be a range of events, from kiteboarding, keelboat racing, offshore competitions, windsurfing, and multihull contests. Spectators will be able to marvel at the variety and skills of the world’s top sailors, all taken in from the premier vantage point from the deck of a superyacht.

For sailing enthusiasts, such as the owner of Quinta Essentia and Celestial Hope, the original owners of Lady L, and the owner of Como I, Marseille presents a unique opportunity. Whether you cruise the iconic French Riviera coastline before or after the Olympic World Sailing events, combining two incredible experiences will make for an unforgettable Mediterranean summer yachting trip this year.

Think picturesque coastal scenery with chic glamour, exclusive events and boutique shopping backed by the adventurous playground of the Alpes-Maritime, finished off with a dose of culinary excellence. It is no surprise that the French Riviera is a Mediterranean yachting hub that people continue to return to.

The locations are as varied as the yachts that cruise the area. The sought-after exclusive allure of Monaco, hosting events such as the Grand Prix and the Monaco Yacht Show, peppered with Michelin-starred restaurants and designer shopping. Or the historic and quaint hub of Antibes, history steeped within the fishing boats and inspiration that was once Picasso’s landscapes.

While cultural and historical significance is strong, the French Riviera is also known for its partying vibes in places such as Cannes, and it is famous for the A-lister event of the Cannes Film Festival. Continuing the glamour, St Tropez is home to some of the best all-day and night beach clubs in the Mediterranean.

Alongside these popular destinations, the French Riviera also offers plenty of hidden gems to escape the crowds. Sanary-sur-Mer and the Porquerolles, renowned for their excellent diving, provide more secluded hangout spots. Venturing inland to villages like Mougins, surrounded by lush forests or charming hilltop villages, is perfect for hiking and biking trails in Biot and Eze. And it wouldn’t be a visit to France without a stop or two at some vineyards. Just a short hop from Marseille is the famous vineyard region of Aix en Provence.

With the countdown to the 2024 Paris Olympics in full swing, the spotlight on Marseille’s world sailing competition offers a unique opportunity for the superyacht world, combining the events with the allure of cruising the French Riviera this summer.

Written by Gemma Harris