Nautical Ambitions

AS OUR PRESIDENT H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco often reminds us: “Even if you are a small country, like ours, that does not prevent you from having big ambitions.”

And that is exactly what Monaco represents. Despite its size, over the decades the Principality has established itself as the world capital of yachting, thanks to its remarkable heritage and unique ability to look ahead and anticipate the future.

As early as 1882, Monaco hosted its first regattas, a clear sign of its nautical ambitions. I am also reminded of 1904 and the presence of the three-mast schooner Shenandoah, which was built in the U.S. in 1902 and illustrates this tradition of excellence and appeal.

But Monaco has always been much more than just a theater of maritime elegance, it is also a land of innovation. Starting in 1904, the annual powerboat meetings drew all the big industrialists of the era to Monaco to test their latest inventions in the bay. It is this unique blend of history, technology, and passion that still defines our approach today.

For Monaco, the sea is an essential element. It has always been a natural gateway and strong link to the outside world. It is through the sea that the Principality has been able to open up, connect, and assert its influence. It is through this intimate relationship with the sea that Monaco has created a hub of innovation that draws people in, where all perspectives converge, where talent, know-how, and expertise come together. A microstate that is often cited as an example, which is a source of great pride.

We pursue the same approach at the Yacht Club de Monaco, true to our mission as a public service delegation and our commitment to more responsible yachting. Through the “Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting” initiative we are developing a forward-looking ecosystem with events like the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, which brings young engineers together with industrialists to explore alternative energy solutions, and the SEA Index®, a benchmark tool to measure the environmental impact of superyachts.

And because the future cannot be built without knowledge of the past, we also promote our special events, such as Monaco Classic Week, which celebrates the timeless elegance of classic sailing yachts, motorboats, and motor yachts.

Rooted in our traditions, yet firmly focused on the future, our Principality has nurtured its heritage while paving the way for innovation. In my opinion, that is Monaco’s true strength.

By Bernard D’Allesandri

Contributor

Bernard d'Alessandri is a pivotal figure in international yachting, serving as the General Secretary and Managing Director of the Yacht Club de Monaco for over five decades. Originally born in France and later becoming a naturalized Monégasque, he arrived in Monaco in 1976, joining a modest club with only four staff members. Under his visionary leadership, the Yacht Club de Monaco has grown into a globally respected institution, renowned for its prestigious events, commitment to maritime heritage, and promotion of sustainable yachting practices. His enduring dedication and strategic direction have solidified his reputation as a cornerstone of the yachting community, steering the club to prominence on the world stage. He is a contributing writer for The Monegasque™ for boat & yachting.