Port Vauban: Europe’s Most Glamorous Marina

Port Vauban isn’t just Europe’s largest marina by capacity (1,800+ berths). It’s a floating museum of wealth, engineering, and the occasional sighting of James Bond villains.

The port was built in the 1960s to replace Antibes’ original harbor (now the old town’s beach). It stretches along the eastern side of the old town, protected by a massive breakwater. On any given day, you’ll see:

• Superyachts — the 50m+ monsters that dwarf everything around them. Some are chartered. Some are owned by people you’ve definitely heard of.
• Classic yachts — beautifully restored wooden vessels from the early 20th century. The Pasha (a 90-year-old classic) is a regular.
• The billionaire’s row — the outer dock where the largest vessels moor. At night, lit up, it looks like a floating city.

Fun fact: the Antibes yacht repair industry is one of the most specialized in the world. If your megayacht needs a specific Italian marble for the bathroom, there’s a guy here who knows where to get it.

Best time to visit: Late afternoon, when the sun is behind the old town and the light reflects off the hulls. I include it on my walking tour →