The International Yacht Club d’Antibes Officially Opens in Port Vauban

The International Yacht Club d’Antibes officially opened its doors last week, welcoming those from the local and international yachting industry to discover the array of brand-new developments that now lie at the heart of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious cruising grounds.

French architect Philippe Prost, President of Vauban 21and CCI NCA Jean-Pierre Savarino, and Mayor of Antibes Juan-les-Pins Jean Leonetti, opened the all-new IYCA, with support from sponsors Palumbo Superyachts Refit, wealth management firm, Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL), Blade helicopters and yacht insurance company, Pantaenius.  

‘Our goal is to be, and to become again, the capital of the yachting industry,’ commented Olivia Gordon Bourcart, Sales and Marketing Director of the IYCA, ‘I think the inauguration tonight is very important because it will really place the IYCA and the quay in the centre of demand. Our goal is to regain this appreciation of Port Vauban as the capital of the yachting industry, as well as to be a convivial place.’  

Arguably the most attractive and conveniently located marina in the world for superyachts over 80m, the IYCA’s recent developments have certainly caused a buzz amongst the Côte d’Azur.

As part of a €135 million development project to renovate the popular yacht club and dedicated superyacht berthing quay, the iconic Port Vauban has been transformed into a modern and versatile haven for superyacht owners and crew alike.

Behind this spectacular transformation? Vauban 21. Comprised of partners from the Antibes Chamber of Commerce and professionals from the industry, Vauban 21 began the initiative in 2017 with the goal of bringing Port Vauban to a new level of prestige and renewing its title as a superyacht hub. 

Undoubtedly, the recent launch and inauguration of the new yacht club and quay is a monumental step in defining Antibes as an unparalleled yachting hotspot. 

Penned by esteemed French architect Philippe Prost, who took inspiration for the club’s design from the exterior of explorer yachts, the new IYCA brings together unrivalled luxury, impeccable services and facilities, and an opulent social scene. Members and customers will find lounge bars, panoramic open terraces and private meeting rooms alongside a dedicated crew centre with a lounge, gym and training studio. A notable highlight of the new yacht club is the private helipad which allows easy access to the Port from the nearby international airport of Nice. 

Also premiered on the inauguration evening was the new Camille Rayon Quay. Now incomparable for berthing in the Mediterranean, the quay offers only 20 exclusive berths for superyachts over 80m, with its largest berth capable of handling a yacht of 150 metres. Alongside easily accessible services, the berths offer owners and guests premium security and privacy. 

Leading yacht brokerage houses Burgess and Edmiston have partnered as joint central agents of these berths, offering exclusive lease opportunities for owners of yachts from 85 to 110 metres. Available in 10,15 and 20-year leases with payment every five years, owners now have the unique chance to secure a position in one of the most prestigious locations in yachting. 

Alongside the new yacht club and Camille Rayon Quay, a significant amount of work to modernise the port have been completed underground including new water, electrical and pump supplies.

Despite the inauguration of the new yacht club and Camille Rayon Quay, there is surprisingly more to come for the historic Antibes marina, with further developments continuing over the coming year. 

To find out more about berthing opportunities in Port Vauban, contact the teams at Burgess and Edmiston today.