The Principality’s innovative project to safeguard the oceans.
From its legitimacy as a maritime nation to its location and renown as a tourist destination, the Principality has many advantages and facilities to meet owners’ and sailors’ expectations. Over the last century, it has established itself as a coveted port of call and centre of excellence, reflected in the high number of servicesbrokers, shipping agents, legal services, banks, insurance, naval architects, designers, etc. – operating all year round.
A heritage to protect
In its mission to strengthen the country’s reputation as a centre of excellence in this sector, the Yacht Club de Monaco launched the Monaco, Capital of Yachting project in 2012. “From a simple vision based on raising awareness among local players,” explained HSH Prince Albert II, President of the Yacht Club de Monaco, during the celebrations, “it quickly became apparent that this approach was an obvious asset for the Principality. Ten years later, in view of the climate emergency and to preserve our oceans, this brand has taken a new turn to become “Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting” to showcase and promote responsible yachting, both environmentally and socially, educationally, and financially. A Charter of Commitment has been formalized, summarizing its convictions and values in a single document: the main players in the Monegasque market were keen to sign it to demonstrate their involvement in this ethical and collective approach.”
Research and innovation for alternative propulsion solutions
‘‘The Yachting industry has mobilized to initiate this change. They are looking for solutions, which gives us good reason to be optimistic’’ notes Bernard d’Alessandri, General Secretary of the Y.C.M. and President of the Monaco Yachting Cluster. ‘‘The observation phase is over, we need to act with pragmatic solutions, following the example of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, which every year in July enables young engineers and industry professionals to present and test innovations in the field of propulsion.’’
During its 9th edition, which took place from 4 to 9 July, it was possible to appreciate the work carried out by university students and engineers and to see their alternative propulsion prototypes in action.
No less than 21 nationalities, 27 universities, and more than 38 teams took part in the event, which saw the participation of three categories: Energy, Solar and Open Sea Class.
Sports education
In terms of sports, in collaboration with Monaco’s National Education Department, the Sports Section welcomes pupils from the 8th grade to the final year of secondary school, in cycles of 6 to 10 weeks, between September and June, which enables the older pupils to take the “Sailing” option for their baccalaureate in the Principality.
Nearly 80 classes and more than 2,000 pupils discover the sea and learn to sail, while being made aware of essential educational values such as autonomy, the acquisition of physical skills, solidarity, and humility when dealing with the elements, but also the importance of preserving the maritime environment.
Classes and training sessions on Optimist, Bug, Topper, Laser, Nacra 15 and J/70 are run all year round by 12 instructors and coaches.
Adults can learn how to sail or improve skills on Saturdays, while advanced sessions on J/70, Topper or Smeralda 888 are held Friday evenings.
Monaco’s J/70 fleet is the largest in the Mediterranean, with many competing under the YCM flag.
The J/70 World Championship is being held for the first time in Monaco 14-22 October 2022.
Tuiga: launched in 1909, YCM’s flagship since 1995, is one of most beautiful classic yachts on the circuit.
Other major events:
10th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (July 3-8, 2023)
16th Monaco Classic Week (September 13-16, 2023)
