Europe's largest marina is home to yachts and mega yachts as well as 'The Quay of Billionaires'.

The largest yachting marina in Europe is home to a beautiful sandy beach, old remparts, stunning views of a historical fort, and a variety of yachts and huge superyachts. The old town has become yachting central, so much so that you'll hear a lot of English being spoken in the cobbled streets and the local Irish pub filled with deckhands having a drink after a long day's work. The French Riviera town of Antibes is home to an impressive total berthage of around 2.6 miles, a water area of 62 acres, and offers 1,501 berths for both yachts and boats.

Port Vauban can accommodate up to 19 superyachts, ranging from 70 to 165 meters in length. The marina is a regular host to some of the world’s most famous and luxurious vessels, including Bill Gates’ megayacht, Roman Abramovich’s 86-meter Ecstasea, and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s massive yacht, Octopus.

Yachts and boats docked at port Vauban in Antibes.

The yachting marina has over 1,500 berths (Image: Getty)

The marina has undergone quite the transformation over the years. 

The port used to be a small fishing port but has now grown into a large marina with a concierge service and even a helicopter landing pad for those coming straight from Monaco or elsewhere. 

Port Vauban has been a military port, trading hub and marina, but it is also a unique natural site whose geography has shaped its history and development from the 5th century BC to today.

A few years ago, you could walk through the entire area and see all of the yachts, including the large and opulent superyachts that are located at the end of the marina. 

Now, this area is separated by a large gate where only people who have access can enter this exclusive section of the marina.

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Built in 1986 and revamped in 2022, the Quai Camille Rayon which is also nicknamed among locals as the Quay of the Billionaires, now houses a Yacht Club with exclusive amenities including a lounge bar, meeting rooms, a helipad lounge, and two panoramic terraces. It also features a Crew Center with a lounge, gym, and training studio.

On the port’s eastern side, the historic bastion was restored in 2024, adding two new reception areas.

Nearby, the Échauguette lighthouse has also been restored along with a new ice cream shop and cafe called Café de l’Échauguette.

Soon, an elevated walkway will connect the old town to the lighthouse, extending the popular walk along the ramparts.