The Yacht Club de Monaco marked the start of the summer season with its much-anticipated annual Summer Cocktail, bringing together members, young hopefuls, and the global yachting community in the presence of its president, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II. The evening served as both a celebration of maritime tradition and an opportunity to present the Club’s latest initiatives, all underpinned by a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability.
With a membership of over 2,500 individuals from 82 nations, the Yacht Club de Monaco continues to unite shipowners, sailors, and sea enthusiasts from around the world, promoting the values of team spirit, respect for maritime heritage, and openness to technological progress. In his address, Prince Albert II reflected on the driving force behind the Club’s endeavours. Quoting philosopher Hegel, he remarked, “Nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion,” highlighting how that passion is woven into every regatta, every project, and every meeting held under the Club’s banner.
The Sovereign also spoke of the Club’s responsibility to pass on knowledge and expertise to the next generation, pointing to the success of La Belle Classe Academy, founded ten years ago to nurture young talent and professionalise the yachting sector. Now officially accredited by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the Academy is expanding its programmes to provide world-class training for future sailors and professional crews. This summer, its immersive YCM Summer Yachting Camps will offer 16 to 22-year-olds a comprehensive introduction to navigation and maritime safety, designed to spark new vocations and refine essential skills.
Environmental responsibility was also at the heart of the evening’s agenda. Members who had committed their vessels to the SEA Index® initiative were recognised for their 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 become a benchmark for assessing and reducing the carbon impact of yachts over 24 metres. Backed by Lloyd’s Register certification and supported by data-driven analysis, the initiative now involves around 100 yachts and has been adopted by 20 Mediterranean ports, with further expansion underway in the Seychelles and Italy.
Looking ahead, the summer promises to be a busy one for the Club, with the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge kicking off on Tuesday, July 1. The event, which has become a global showcase for sustainable yachting technologies, will see students, engineers, and industry leaders gather to present pioneering projects in electric, hydrogen, and hybrid propulsion. The Energy Observer, a cutting-edge laboratory ship exploring renewable energy solutions, will also make a notable appearance.
Later in the season, the Club will compete for the first time in the legendary Admiral’s Cup, revived by the Royal Ocean Racing Club after a 20-year absence. Two Monegasque boats, including YCM Vice President Pierre Casiraghi’s Jolt 6, will take to the waters off Cowes, following Casiraghi’s recent triumph at the IRC British National Championship.
In August, attention turns to the 20th edition of the Palermo–Montecarlo, a 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. The biennial celebration of vintage yachts and maritime heritage will feature restored sailing ships, historic motorboats, and artisans, paying special tribute to Tuiga as it marks three decades under YCM colours.
As the Club looks to the horizon, Prince Albert II reaffirmed its mission: to be a hub where generations, cultures, and disciplines converge, driven by a shared love of the sea and a sense of responsibility for its future. With that spirit, the Yacht Club de Monaco continues to chart its course, honouring tradition while embracing the challenges of tomorrow.
