Monaco Yacht Club sails towards nautical sustainability

Epicenter of nautical life in the Mediterranean

The Monaco Yacht Club (MYC) is much more than a simple nautical club; it's a true nerve center for maritime life. Every year it organizes world-renowned regattas, attracting the most beautiful boats and the most talented sailors. Among these prestigious events, the Monaco Classic Week and the Tall Ship Regatta stand out for their elegance and competitiveness. These events are perfect showcases for classic yachts and modern sailboats, highlighting the wealth of the nautical heritage.

The club also encourages younger generations to embrace the passion for yachting through its sailing school. Budding sailors learn not only navigation techniques, but also the values of respect and preservation of the marine environment. This school is a real melting pot where future sailing champions are trained.

The Monaco Yacht Club is especially a meeting place for international elites: to enter, you need to be sponsored by at least 2 members. A privilege that does not guarantee membership, however... Coming from various backgrounds, the 2500 members of this closed circle share a common passion for the sea and yachting. Its lounges and gourmet restaurants - where the dress code is paramount - provide an ideal setting for fruitful discussions and exchanges: this is where friendships are formed, networks are woven, and business deals are concluded.

Ad

A first race of boats with innovative propulsion

The influence of the YCM far exceeds the borders of the Principality. It collaborates with other prestigious yacht clubs and participates in international events, thus strengthening its influence. Through these initiatives, it plays a crucial role in promoting yachting, but also in the protection of the oceans on a global scale.

Yachts, especially superyachts, consume large quantities of fuel. This results in significant carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The powerful engines required to propel these vessels are responsible for a disproportionate share of CO2 emissions compared to other types of marine vehicles. They are also criticized for sea pollution, overconsumption, and noise.

Without renouncing its identity, the Monaco Yacht Club has chosen to strengthen its commitment to ocean protection. Under the impulse of Prince Albert II, it actively supports ecological initiatives and participates in marine conservation research programs, while working to promote sustainable boating practices and raising public awareness of environmental challenges.

The club has thus set up innovative infrastructures to reduce its carbon footprint. These include waste management systems, water purification devices, and renewable energy sources. Thus, it has partnered with the International Electric Marine Association (IEMA) to create an annual event and competition around innovative propulsion boats: the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (first week of July). An appointment aimed at accelerating the transition to cleaner propulsion systems and "solutions prioritizing sustainability without compromising performance".

The mark of an environmental commitment: the SEA Index

In 2020, the YCM also launched the SEA Index, an innovative tool for measuring the environmental impact of superyachts over 25 meters. Created in collaboration with Credit Suisse, this index is a response to the growing demand from yacht owners wishing to assess and reduce their carbon footprint. Its objective is to analyze the energy intensity of yachts and compare their CO2 emissions, thus offering unprecedented transparency in the yachting sector.

The project received the CAPENERGIES label, which recognizes its innovation and potential to transform the nautical sector towards greater sustainability. This certification not only raises awareness among yacht owners of their environmental impact, but also encourages the adoption of concrete measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

On June 19, at the celebration of his 40th anniversary as club president, Prince Albert II was pleased with the deployment of the index in 15 ports and marinas on the French Riviera, marking a significant advancement in promoting sustainable boating practices. “The SEA Index is paramount today. And I wish that we go even further, by measuring other greenhouse gases, without forgetting of course the noise nuisances which are also a major concern,” he declared.

A prestigious destination

The Monaco Yacht Club is more than just a nautical club: it's a prestigious destination, recognized throughout the world. Its main building, designed by British architect Norman Foster and inaugurated in 2014, resembles a ship ready to set sail. Its vast bay windows provide a stunning view on Hercules Port, capturing the Mediterranean light.

The building sets itself apart with its innovative use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly technologies, demonstrating the club's commitment towards marine environment protection. Hanging gardens and green terraces add a touch of nature to this imposing structure. The offered services, ranging from high-end dining to wellness care, are designed to meet the highest expectations. Every detail is carefully orchestrated to guarantee an unforgettable experience.