The Yacht Club de Monaco hums with the excited chatter of children during the school holidays. Its popular SeaAdventures Camps invite young people aged 5 to 17 to dive into nautical fun, from sailing and paddleboarding to kayaking and marine discovery. These energetic, sports-focused weeks offer an immersive splash into the world on, in, and under the water.
Waves of inclusion: Opening the ocean to all
But beneath the surface of these bustling camps, a more profound mission is quietly unfolding—one that carries a powerful message: the ocean should be accessible to everyone. Alongside the SeaAdventures Camps, the Yacht Club runs a parallel initiative dedicated to inclusivity. Each week, it warmly welcomes a different group of young people facing vulnerabilities, whether due to disability, illness, or social hardship.
This commitment to accessibility isn’t just a side project; it’s a core part of the Club’s ethos. These tailored activities, though distinct from the main camps, run concurrently, creating a vibrant, shared marine environment.
A week-by-week journey of joy
The impact of this initiative is felt week after week. Recently, young patients from the Princess Grace Hospital Centre (CHPG) enjoyed specially adapted sessions, experiencing the thrill of the open water. This week, the Yacht Club is partnering with Les Enfants de Frankie, a charity that orchestrates daily visits for small groups from its extensive network of partner associations. Each day, a different organization brings around ten children and their caregivers to experience the simple joy of a day on the water.
Looking ahead, Monaco Disease Power, an association supporting children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities, will be the next to benefit from this heartwarming program.
Tailored adventures for every ability
Every activity is carefully adapted to the specific needs and abilities of the participants. Whether it’s sailing on Hansa 303s, exploring in Echo boats, or enjoying paddleboarding and kayaking, safety and enjoyment are paramount. These sessions are expertly supervised by Alex Richard, a coach specially trained to work with individuals with disabilities, and are further supported by dedicated staff from the visiting associations.
This inclusive endeavor is a cornerstone of the Yacht Club’s Navicap program, proudly run by its Sports Section. Launched three years ago, Navicap was made possible through the generous support of Club donor Elena Sivoldaeva. The program boasts a specialized fleet, including an AIRA 22, two Hansa 303s, and an Echo 90, enabling the Club to host a diverse range of participants year-round. Beyond the summer sessions, each partner association is invited to participate in two sessions per month throughout the year, ensuring continuous access to these enriching experiences.
The Navicap Challenge: A celebration of Unity
The pinnacle of this inclusive strategy is the Navicap Challenge – Trophée Elena Sivoldaeva. This unique regatta, now in its third year, unites mixed crews of able-bodied and disabled sailors. From November 28th to 30th, approximately thirty duos from across Europe will compete aboard Hansa 303s, transforming the waters into a powerful celebration of resilience, unity, and accessibility. It’s more than just a race; it’s a testament to the idea that everyone, regardless of their challenges, deserves the chance to experience the boundless freedom of the sea.
