Galathéa 2026 - Festival International du monde marin à Hyères

Titouan Lamazou is the patron of the 11th edition. A sailor, artist, and avid traveler, he has always had a special connection to the ocean. After studying at the School of Fine Arts, he set sail at just 18 years old and turned his attention to offshore racing. In 1990, he made history by winning the very first Vendée Globe, after 109 days of sailing solo around the world, nonstop and without assistance. But his journey extends far beyond sailing. A painter, illustrator, photographer, and author, Titouan Lamazou travels the world and uses images to tell the stories of the places, cultures, and people he encounters. Named a UNESCO Artist for Peace, his work today is closely tied to the ocean, the Pacific Islands, and the preservation of life. A journey through the ocean, imagery, travel, encounters, and commitment—one that resonates deeply with Galathea’s values. Laurent Ballesta is the guest of honor at the 11th edition. A photographer, marine biologist, diver, and explorer, he is now a leading figure in underwater exploration. Through his Gombessa Expeditions, he combines scientific research, diving challenges, and photography with a single goal: to explore, document, and reveal underwater worlds that remain largely unknown. From the coelacanth in South Africa to the shark aggregations off Fakarava, from the depths of Antarctica to those of the Mediterranean, his expeditions have yielded exceptional images and observations. His work, which has received numerous awards, has also given rise to many books and documentaries. This year, a very special connection links his world to GALATHEA, as one of his photographs adorns the official poster for this 11th edition. A convergence of science, exploration, and underwater imagery that fully embodies the spirit of the festival.