FIREWORKS IN CANNES: SEE THEM FROM A BOAT

Every summer, the Bay of Cannes becomes the stage for a unique spectacle. From a boat, the fireworks can be seen from a privileged angle, between calm sea, sunset and light on the Croisette.

Watching the Cannes fireworks from the sea is a particularly popular summer experience on the Côte d'Azur. On several evenings between July and August, the Bay of Cannes hosts the famous International Festival of Pyrotechnic Art. From a boat, it is possible to enjoy the show in a privileged setting, within the framework of a yacht charter on the French Riviera.

The Cannes International Pyrotechnic Art Festival

Every summer, the Bay of Cannes lights up during the International Festival of Pyrotechnic Art, one of the world's most prestigious fireworks competitions.

For several evenings between July and August, teams from all over the world present their creations in a show synchronized to the music.

Each performance lasts approximately 25 minutes, transforming the bay of Cannes into a veritable stage of light facing the Croisette.

The lights are fired from barges anchored in the bay, usually facing the iconic Carlton Hotel, This is a spectacle perfectly visible from the shore... or even better, from the sea.

Cannes fireworks dates - Summer 2026

Exact dates and official information on the International Festival of Pyrotechnic Art are published each year by the City of Cannes.

The confirmed dates for the 2026 edition are as follows:

  • July 4, 2026
  • July 14, 2026
  • July 22, 2026
  • August 4, 2026
  • August 15, 2026
  • August 24, 2026

Participating pyrotechnic companies are usually announced a few months before the event. Each evening attracts several thousand spectators to the Croisette and the whole bay of Cannes.

Why see the fireworks from a boat?

During the festival evenings, the beaches and Croisette fill up quickly. The best vantage points are often occupied several hours before the show.

From a boat, the experience is totally different.

  • Panoramic view of the Bay of Cannes
  • Ideal shooting distance
  • Quiet, privileged setting
  • A friendly atmosphere on board

The sea becomes a veritable natural amphitheatre facing the show.

Where are the boats positioned during the fireworks?

Boats are generally positioned in the bay facing the Croisette.

The most common zones are :

  • Opposite the Palais des Festivals
  • Between the Croisette and the Lérins islands
  • Within a safety distance defined by the maritime authorities

During these evenings, the bay welcomes many yachts and boats to enjoy the show in the best conditions.

A typical evening on a boat during the fireworks display

A fireworks outing usually starts at the end of the day.

  • Late afternoon departure from Cannes or Antibes
  • Sailing to the Lérins Islands
  • Anchor in the bay before the show
  • Aperitif or light dinner on board
  • Fireworks in front of the Croisette
  • Return to port in the evening

This format allows you to enjoy sunset over the bay and fireworks.

A typical evening on a boat during the fireworks display

A fireworks outing usually starts at the end of the day. Departures are usually from Cannes or Antibes, as part of a boat rental between Cannes and Antibes.

  • Late afternoon departure from Cannes or Antibes
  • Sailing to the Lérins Islands
  • Anchor in the bay before the show
  • Aperitif or light dinner on board
  • Fireworks in front of the Croisette
  • Return to port in the evening

This format allows you to enjoy sunset over the bay and fireworks.

The best places to see the fireworks in Cannes

La Croisette

The most popular viewpoint, but also the busiest.

Le Suquet

The old town of Cannes offers panoramic views across the bay.

The Lérins Islands

An exceptional natural setting, but further away from shooting.

From a boat in the bay

The best way to admire the fireworks with a clear view and without the crowds.

Other fireworks on the Côte d'Azur

Several Riviera towns also organize fireworks displays during the summer:

  • Antibes at local festivals
  • Nice on the Baie des Anges
  • Monaco during certain seasonal events

Watching the fireworks from a boat also offers a unique perspective, with an unobstructed view of the coastline and the illuminated city.

See Cannes fireworks with Clapi Boats


Watching fireworks from the sea is a particularly popular summer experience.

Clapi Boats organizes sea trips from Cannes, Antibes, Nice or Monaco to enjoy the show in the best conditions.

Our team can help you with :

  • Choose your boat tailored to your group
  • Organizing the program of the evening
  • Provide a aperitif or a dinner on board
  • Coordinate schedules with the fireworks display

These outings can also be part of the organization of’events at sea on the Côte d'Azur, Whether it's a birthday party, an evening with friends or a private event.

Want to see the Cannes fireworks from the sea?

Let us know your preferred date and the number of participants: we'll suggest the most suitable boats to enjoy the show in the Bay of Cannes.

Princess V50 Open 2018 - exterior up

To explore the various possible itineraries, please consult our page dedicated to the yacht charter on the French Riviera, as well as our local pages for outings between Cannes and Antibes, Nice and Monaco, or Saint-Tropez and Saint-Raphaël.

Cannes Film Festival, Cannes Lions, Monaco Grand Prix, EVG, birthdays or sunset with friends: discover our experiences at sea on the Côte d'Azur.

Explore our suggested routes between Lérins Islands, Cap d'Antibes, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or Estérel to imagine the ideal setting for your event at sea.