The year 2026 is marked by an exceptional celebration for the French Navy.
Established in 1626, under the impetus of Cardinal Richelieu, our Navy was born from a bold vision for France. To achieve this vision, the Navy has adapted, since its origins, to the strategic, technological and human challenges of its time. For 400 years, the Navy has protected the French people, on all oceans. These are four centuries of commitment at sea, of men and women serving France, the French people and their interests. The Navy remains a pillar of our country's defence and sovereignty.
It is entirely natural that the Toulon Provence Regatta 2026 wanted to associate itself with this national event. Several activities with different audiences are planned.
From 7 May, primary school pupils from the Metropolis will benefit from different workshops during a school morning that will introduce them to a part of the National Navy Museum. But their REGATTA’PASS passport will also lead them to other workshops on seamanship, flag-making, or discovering the marine environment. They will also be able to discover the photo exhibition «For 400 years the Navy has protected you». This exhibition in the Mairie d’Honneur is open to the public from 29 April to 28 May from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
Another exhibition to see is the Parcours de la Mer, spread across all the quays of Toulon's Old Port. It highlights the following themes: strengthening the territory's maritime identity, promoting Sustainable Development initiatives, and discovering metre-class sailboats.
22 panels, catering to both adult and younger audiences, cover themes ranging from competitive sailing and marine biodiversity to maritime safety. This year, panels also highlight the 400th anniversary of the French Navy.
You can also find other historical elements on these 400 years of the National Navy in the Toulon Provence Regatta 2026 Event Log at the following link: Here ...
Finally, the French Navy will be present amongst us at the TPR 2026 partners' village located at the fishermen's quay. The Ophrys-class Diving Support Launch (VSP), Acacia, will be moored at the quay for the 4 days of our event. It is a light tonnage vessel class of the French Navy with a non-magnetic aluminium hull and propulsion that can switch between diesel or electric propulsion depending on its mission. This vessel will be open for public visits. Mine-clearing divers will be present on its aft deck to give you demonstrations of equipment. Can you find the reason for the red pom-pom on our sailors' caps? You will only have to ask them directly during your visit, and perhaps you will get surprising answers…
You will be able to find all pre-bookings for the free visits of the boats present, on the page « Ticket office » from our website from 1st May.
Discover all these animations at the Toulon Provence Regatta from May 7th to 10th!
