The superyacht industry is making strides toward a greener future, and the Captains’ Club at the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) is at the forefront of these efforts.

During the 29th Captains’ Forum, held on September 26th, 2024, amidst the Monaco Yacht Show, over a hundred superyacht captains came together to discuss the sustainable transformation of the sector, with a collective voice that resonates throughout the industry.

Gathering leaders whose vessels span an impressive, combined length of 4,200 meters, the Captains’ Club has become a driving force for sustainable change. The discussions this year focused on leadership, technology, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices. YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri emphasized the shared responsibility of captains and owners to ensure the future prosperity and sustainability of yachting. “We must work together to chart a course towards a sustainable future,” he said, stressing the pivotal role of the Captains’ Club in shaping industry direction.

One of the most notable initiatives is the Blue Pledge, an eco-charter that now has 150 members signed up, committing to practices that minimize environmental impact and promote ocean health. As a group, the captains exchanged strategies, from integrating renewable energies and artificial intelligence for resource management, to practical steps in reducing emissions and waste. The message was clear: sustainability is no longer a choice, but an imperative.

The discussions were underpinned by a survey conducted prior to the forum, which revealed that over 60% of captains consider ocean protection an essential focus. Many anticipate stricter environmental regulations in the coming years, making the leadership shown by YCM and the Captains’ Club crucial to navigating these impending changes.

Anil Thadani, winner of the YCM Explorers Awards 2024, highlighted the importance of captain-owner collaboration, stating that captains should encourage owners to “think outside the box and adopt more responsible conduct.” The Captains’ Club, established in 2007, continues to give captains the operational perspective and voice needed to advocate for the necessary changes, providing a bridge between owners, builders, and maritime authorities.

With initiatives like the Captains’ Club and events such as the upcoming Winter Pop-Up organized by Cluster Yachting Monaco, the YCM is leading the way in promoting a sustainable future for yachting. As the industry comes together, the role of captains in steering the superyacht community toward greener horizons is more crucial than ever.