Grand Pavois La Rochelle

Date: 22 September 2026

Location: Port des Minimes, La Rochelle, France

Organizer: Grand Pavois

The Grand Pavois is France's big autumn boat show, held afloat and ashore at Port des Minimes in La Rochelle. The 2026 edition runs from 22 to 27 September. Hundreds of sail and power boats lie in the water for visitors to board, which is the real advantage over hall-based shows: you judge hulls on their lines and layouts, not on a stand under spotlights. Around the pontoons there are equipment exhibitors, electronics, engines and services, plus a beach area for trying water sports. Each year the show invites a guest country, and for 2026 that guest is Japan, with a dedicated pavilion and cultural programme. La Rochelle itself helps the case. It is a working sailing city with one of the largest marinas on the Atlantic coast, and the show has an easy, open-air feel that indoor events cannot match. If you are shopping for a boat, plan a full day and comfortable shoes.

Event website

View this event on the World Sailing Day map

More sailing events in France

See all sailing events in France, or browse the world map to discover regattas, open days and sailing festivals near you — and explore yacht clubs, marinas and sailing schools along the way.

Sailing nearby

Planning to attend? These clubs, marinas, schools and other sailing places are close to La Rochelle and worth a visit while you are in the area:

Want to grow sailing in France? Become a World Sailing Day ambassador.