A star-studded celebration of maritime passion and progress
Monaco Yacht Club recently launched its summer season with its highly anticipated annual Summer Cocktail, an exclusive gathering that brought together members, promising young talents, and key figures from the global yachting community. Presided over by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, the evening was more than just a celebration of maritime traditions; it was a powerful showcase of the Club’s latest initiatives, all united by a profound commitment to innovation and sustainability.
With an impressive roster of over 2,500 members spanning 82 nations, the Yacht Club de Monaco continues to serve as a vital nexus for shipowners, sailors, and sea enthusiasts worldwide. It champions the core values of team spirit, respect for maritime heritage, and an enthusiastic embrace of technological advancement. In his address, Prince Albert II eloquently captured the driving force behind the Club’s endeavors, quoting philosopher Hegel: “Nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion.” He emphasized how this very passion permeates every regatta, every project, and every meeting held under the Club’s esteemed banner.
Nurturing the next generation of maritime leaders
The Sovereign also highlighted the Club’s crucial responsibility in passing on invaluable knowledge and expertise to future generations. He proudly referenced the resounding success of La Belle Classe Academy, an institution founded a decade ago with the mission of nurturing young talent and professionalizing the yachting sector. Now officially accredited by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the Academy is significantly expanding its programs to provide world-class training for aspiring sailors and professional crews. This summer, its immersive YCM Summer Yachting Camps will offer comprehensive introductions to navigation and maritime safety for 16 to 22-year-olds, designed to ignite new vocations and refine essential skills.
Charting a course for sustainable yachting
Environmental responsibility was a central theme of the evening. Members who had dedicated their vessels to the SEA Index® initiative were recognized for their pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future for the industry. Developed by the Yacht Club in collaboration with Credit Suisse (a UBS Group brand), the SEA Index® has rapidly become a benchmark for assessing and reducing the carbon footprint of yachts over 24 meters. Backed by rigorous Lloyd’s Register certification and supported by robust, data-driven analysis, the initiative now includes approximately 100 yachts and has been adopted by 20 Mediterranean ports, with ambitious plans for further expansion in the Seychelles and Italy.
A summer full of high-seas action and innovation
The Club anticipates a bustling summer season. The highly anticipated Monaco Energy Boat Challenge kicks off on Tuesday, July 1. This event, a global showcase for sustainable yachting technologies, will bring together students, engineers, and industry leaders to present groundbreaking projects in electric, hydrogen, and hybrid propulsion. The Energy Observer, a cutting-edge laboratory ship dedicated to exploring renewable energy solutions, is also slated to make a significant appearance.
Later in the season, the Club will make its historic debut in the legendary Admiral’s Cup, revived by the Royal Ocean Racing Club after a 20-year hiatus. Two Monegasque boats, including YCM Vice President Pierre Casiraghi’s Jolt 6, will compete off the waters of Cowes, following Casiraghi’s recent triumph at the IRC British National Championship.
August will see attention shift to the 20th edition of the Palermo–Montecarlo, a challenging 500-nautical-mile offshore race connecting Sicily to Monaco, where seasoned sailors and rising stars will share the stage. And come September, Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe will return to Port Hercule. This biennial celebration of vintage yachts and maritime heritage will feature beautifully restored sailing ships, historic motorboats, and skilled artisans, with a special tribute planned for Tuiga as it marks three decades under YCM colors.
