The Tuiga, the flagship yacht of the Yacht Club de Monaco, has taken another step in its latest restoration programme after a new mast was carefully installed this week in the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
The delicate operation took place Tuesday morning at the Darse harbour, where a large crane and a team of specialised technicians worked together to position the towering mast onto the historic sailing yacht. Given the size and weight of the structure, the manoeuvre required meticulous coordination and precision to ensure the mast was safely secured without damaging the vessel.
Built in 1909 by renowned naval architect William Fife III, the Tuiga is one of the most iconic classic yachts still sailing today. The vessel has been owned by the Yacht Club de Monaco since 1995 and regularly represents the Principality at prestigious classic regattas across Europe. It also serves as a centrepiece of Monaco’s sailing heritage, frequently taking part in events such as the Monaco Classic Week.
The mast installation forms part of an ongoing maintenance and refit programme designed to preserve the yacht’s structural integrity and ensure it remains competitive on the classic sailing circuit. Following the successful installation, the vessel is expected to remain in Villefranche-sur-Mer for approximately two more weeks while final adjustments and technical work are completed.
Once the work is finished, the Tuiga will return to Monaco and resume its sailing schedule, continuing its role as an ambassador for the Principality’s long maritime tradition.