The modernization project of the Old Port of Golfe-Juan was officially launched on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Planned over two seasons until spring 2028, the project notably includes the widening of Tabarly Quay, the installation of photovoltaic panels and the creation of new public spaces.
The Old Port of Golfe-Juan is entering a new phase of its development. The municipality of Vallauris Golfe-Juan entrusted its management to the CCI Nice Côte d’Azur in 2024, as part of a 25-year public service delegation agreement, accompanied by an investment program of nearly 19 million euros. The official launch of the work took place on Saturday, October 10, 2026, on Napoleon Quay, in the presence of Jean-Pierre Savarino, president of the CCI Nice Côte d’Azur, Kevin Luciano, mayor of Vallauris Golfe-Juan, and Charles Lacroix, from the Atelier Régis Roudil Architects.
Worth 8.75 million euros excluding taxes, the work must modernize port infrastructure while improving spaces accessible to the public. The objective is also to bring the port closer to the city center, without altering the identity of the places. Work will take place exclusively during the off-seasons, from October to May, to preserve summer activity.
Tabarly Quay, port equipment and solar energy on the program
The first season of work, scheduled from October 2026 to May 2027, will be devoted to structural improvements. Tabarly Quay will notably be widened by three meters over the water. This extension should allow for the development of the promenade, with a landscaped tiered seating area, enlarged restaurant terraces and a ramp accessible to people with reduced mobility.
The work will also concern water and electricity networks. Part of the operations will be carried out from a barge, directly on the water, in order to limit the impact on the environment and the duration of the work.
The fishermen’s bench will be temporarily moved to Avenue des Frères Roustan until spring 2027. New equipment of 49 m² will then be reconstructed, with a larger and modernized display area.
Energy transition is another component of the project. The South jetty will house 730 m² of photovoltaic panels installed as shading over parking spaces. The installation, intended for self-consumption, should produce approximately 200,000 kWh per year, or nearly 20% of the port’s electricity consumption.
A new careening area will also be developed on Napoleon Quay, at the location of the former treatment plant. It will include about ten berths for vessels up to 12 meters, depending on their tonnage. The basins of the former plant, after decontamination, will be used to decant careening water and recover rainwater for irrigation.
A second phase to reconnect the port to the city
From October 2027 to May 2028, the second construction season will focus mainly on public spaces and finishing touches. The project provides for the creation of a tree-lined square with a view of the Mediterranean, in place of the West careening area. This space will be intended for hosting events and will highlight the traditional boats of the Old Port. It will also mark the beginning of the “ports trail”.
At the end of Tabarly Quay, a shaded cooling island will replace the East careening area. This development should restore continuity of the promenade toward Camille Rayon port. The landscaped tiered seating of Tabarly Quay will complete the ensemble by offering a space for relaxation and gathering, which could also host cultural events.
Saint-Pierre Quay will, for its part, retain its central function in the organization of port services. The improvements should notably facilitate movement and better distinguish pedestrian routes from traffic circulation.
The schedule has been optimized to reduce the overall duration of the operation. All necessary authorizations, including building permits and decrees under water law, have been obtained. According to the announced schedule, two construction seasons will ultimately be sufficient, compared to the three originally planned. The delivery of the improvements is expected in spring or summer 2028.
An investment for the local economy and the environment
Beyond the transformation of the quays, the project must support economic activity in the territory. The operation, divided into 13 lots now awarded, is part of the Small Business Act, which aims to facilitate access for small and medium-sized enterprises to public contracts.
The environmental component is based on several priorities: preserving water resources, developing renewable energies and limiting energy consumption, but also restoring biodiversity and ensuring monitoring of water quality.
With 805 mooring berths, the Old Port of Golfe-Juan occupies an important place in local life. The modernization undertaken should make it possible to maintain its maritime activity while upgrading equipment and promenade spaces. The project should thus reconcile the needs of boaters, economic activities and the uses of residents, with a deadline set for 2028.
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