6th YCM Explorer Awards: owners recognised for embracing exploration

The first Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous, organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco in collaboration with The Explorers Club of New York, concluded with the 6th YCM Explorer Awards by La Belle Classe Superyachts, in partnership with UBS and Bombardier. Under the presidency of HSH Prince Albert II, since 2018 the ceremony has honoured owners who use their yachts as platforms for exploration, scientific research and innovation.
Between transmission, exploration and innovation, Monaco is at the forefront of tomorrow’s yachting

Following the first Yachting Student Fair to discover yachting professions, followed by the inauguration of the Explorer Dock, day three’s focus was the Day of Exploration at the Yacht Club de Monaco. Dedicated to science, adventure and knowledge, this day was organised by The Explorers Club of New York in collaboration with the YCM. Explorers, scientists and experts exchanged ideas on a wide range of issues spanning research and fieldwork to knowledge sharing. Presentations included topics ranging from the deep sea to polar regions and space exploration. For Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, “Good ideas never come from one place, they are universal. The more diverse people we gather together to share their experiences, the stronger the message”.
ILCA: YCM juniors continue the French Championship selection process

YCM’s juniors continued their selection process over the weekend for the French Championship. The third event concluded in Saint-Raphaël in wintery conditions with rain, an erratic wind and challenging races. Yacht Club de Monaco’s sailors rose to the occasion with several very convincing results and a promising debut for Océane Schroeder who recently moved from the Optimist class to the ILCA classes.
Explorer Dock: exploration yachts immersion at Yacht Club de Monaco

This Sunday at the Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous, Bernard d’Alessandri, Director and General Secretary of Yacht Club de Monaco, and Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club of New York inaugurated the Explorer Dock for use by yachts designed or employed for exploration, scientific research or maritime innovation. From 2.00pm to 6.00pm the Explorer Dock was open for the public to discover seven very different vessels moored in the YCM Marina. All illustrate a yachting evolution towards more responsible uses from long-distance ocean navigation to scientific missions and technical solutions to reduce the boat’s environmental impact.
Over 800 young people discover yachting and maritime careers

More than 800 middle school, sixth formers, students and graduates attended the inaugural Yachting Student Fair organised by Yacht Club de Monaco in collaboration with the Department of Education, Youth and Sport, and Monaco City Hall. This event which marked the start of the first Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous (21-24 March) in collaboration with The Explorers Club of New York aimed to introduce young people to careers in yachting, the maritime sector and exploration by bringing together students, professionals, schools and yachting institutions.
Nine chefs set to go head to head in gastronomic challenge

Nine chefs are preparing to get behind their stoves for the 7th Superyacht Chef Competition on 2 April 2026. Organised by YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre in partnership with Bluewater, the event promises a feast of flavours. With its aim being to promote to the public a relatively unknown profession, this culinary contest always attracts a full house.
YCM in the thick of it at the St Barths Bucket Regatta

Superyacht owners were again welcomed warmly to Saint-Barthélemy. Breezy trade winds, choppy seas and brilliant sunshine were on the programme of the 2026 edition, ideal conditions for the international fleet which descended on the island for four days of racing. And once again, YCM was in the thick of it at this St Barths Bucket Regatta, with several members racing on board some of the most beautiful yachts present.
Exploration from all angles at the Day of Exploration

Explore to better understand the world and above all to better protect it. This is exploration from all angles which is the theme of the Day of Exploration. Organised by Yacht Club de Monaco on Tuesday 24 March, in partnership with The Explorers Club of New York, it is part of the programme for the first Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous which is on from 21 to 24 March. Explorers, scientists and prominent figures will be sharing their experiences, be they in the depths of the ocean, the polar regions or beyond our planet. They represent a diverse range of careers and approaches with a common goal to better understand the world in order to better assess its vulnerability.
YCM’s Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio (G-Spot) triumphs third year running

After three days of racing in a wide range of conditions, from a strong easterly on the first day to a more manageable breeze at the end, the 42nd Primo Cup-UBS Trophy delivered its verdict in Monaco. Organised by Yacht Club de Monaco in collaboration with UBS and support of Monaco City Hall and equipment supplier North Sails, the event drew over 300 sailors from ten nations sailing in three very competitive one design classes: J/70, Smeralda 888 and Longtze Premier. The Cape 31 class was also there for a demonstration. The first major regatta of the Mediterranean one design season, it was also the fourth and final Act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series for the J/70s. “The Primo Cup brings together sailors of different levels which is what makes the format so special. As you improve you measure yourself against those more experienced than you,” says YCM Vice-President Pierre Casiraghi.
An all-Monegasque podium

After four regattas held from November to March in the bay of Monaco, the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series 2025-2026 delivered its verdict in Act IV during the 42nd Primo Cup-UBS Trophy. With 25 races completed in sometimes challenging conditions and an international fleet on form, winter racing at the foot of the Rocher again lived up to expectations. The conclusion was worth the wait with an all-Monegasque podium, although it is worth noting that the J/70 Monaco Class Association has one of the largest fleets in the Mediterranean with around 15 teams.