The 17th Monaco Classic Week unfolded today with a stunning array of classic sailing yachts racing in the bay, the roar of vintage powerboats skimming along the coast and the timeless grace of the Dinghy 12’ class, while on the quays the Grand Jury continued their meticulous inspections. Ashore and at sea, the programme again delivered on its promise, confirming the unique character of an event that showcases sport, heritage and lifestyle.
With 70 vintage powerboats, including 50 Rivas, the Yacht Club de Monaco staged the largest gathering of its kind in the history of Monaco Classic Week. Their cruise to Èze Bord de Mer unfolded like a floating catwalk on a blue carpet, a dazzling tribute to Italian dolce vita and the golden age of mahogany design. Gleaming varnish and polished chrome drew admiring glances from spectators along the shoreline.
At 1.00pm, the spotlight turned to the classic sailing yachts and twenty Dinghy 12’ class boats. Powered by a steady 15 to 18 knot westerly, the fleet put on a display of rare intensity as the forty-plus yachts, many over a century old, showed they have lost none of their ability or desire to win. Tack after tack, these living witnesses of maritime history proved they remain thoroughbred racers at heart. By the close of this third day of competition, Chips held on to the provisional lead in gaff rig category. In Big Boat category, Mariska dominated proceedings, while in the Vintage Marconi, it was Falcon who took control of the scoreboard. In the Vintage Marconi B, One Wave is temporarily taking the helm and in Classique Marconi, Argynne III from YCM is leading the way. For the Dinghy 12’ class, two races were sailed with Oliver leading the provisional ranking.
Beyond the racing, Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe once again highlighted its international reach. The Manhattan Yacht Club is racing aboard Mariska (1908), while the gaff-rigged ketch Black Swan (1899) is hosting a Saudi delegation of representatives and guests from the Amaala Yacht Club, a symbol of yachting’s growing presence in the Red Sea.
Classic Week also shines a light on maritime traditions. Nine members of the Martine de Landéda association, passionate advocates of sculling, entertained spectators with demonstrations and hands-on workshops. Part technical skill, part popular heritage, this age-old way of propelling a boat with a single oar fascinated visitors eager to try their hand at this technique from the past.
Tomorrow, Saturday 13 September, the spotlight turns to the Concours d’Élégance, under the presidency of Allegra Gucci. On Quai Lucciana, each yacht will parade before the jury to be assessed on the beauty of its lines, the conduct and attire of the crew and observance of naval etiquette.
The classic yachts will also head out for a final race before the award of the coveted Monaco Classic Week Trophy that will bring this 17th edition of elegance, style and beauty to a fitting close.
