From April 17 to 19, 2026, the port of Arcachon will once again turn into a grand maritime stage for the Nautical Salon, a must-visit event for sailing enthusiasts and curious folks around the Basin.
Four iconic boats expected in the port of Arcachon
After hosting prestigious sailing vessels in recent years like the Belem, the Marité, and La Belle Poule, the event continues its tradition of inviting new exceptional ships.
Visitors will be able to discover: The Styx, a military ship from the National Navy serving as a base for mine-clearing divers, La Nao Santa María, a replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship, and L’Étoile Molène, a traditional tuna fishing dundee.
breton and Le Saint Christophe, a racing-cruiser schooner. These boats will be accessible to the public and will be one of the highlights of the show.La Santa María, the star expected this weekend
Among the honored guests, the Nao Santa María is sure to steal the show. This faithful replica of the caravel that accompanied Christopher Columbus on his 1492 voyage was built by the Nao Victoria Foundation in Spain.
Launched on March 16, 2018, after 14 months of work, the ship brought together nearly a hundred specialists: shipwrights., historians and engineers. Measuring 28.30 meters long, nearly 8 meters wide, and weighing about 200 tons, it features a modern fiberglass structure combined with traditional wooden cladding. The boat is set to arrive in Arcachon on April 16th, the day before the official opening of the show.
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A weekend dedicated to the sea
Beyond these historical ships, the Arcachon Boat Show will offer an immersive experience into the maritime world with opportunities to meet nautical professionals, see boat presentations, enjoy activities, demonstrations, and fun for the whole family.