From 8 to 11 July 2026, the Yacht Club de Monaco hosts the 13th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, featuring 54 teams from 21 countries. The event showcases cutting-edge marine technologies, including hulls on foils, electric, hydrogen, and methanol engines, and onboard artificial intelligence, all aimed at shaping the future of yachting.
Young Engineers Test Prototypes at Sea
Over four days, young engineers will put their prototypes to the test at sea under the watchful eyes of industry professionals. The event is supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, UBS, BMW, SBM Offshore, Monaco City Hall, NatPower H, and ESA NanoTech, all committed to decarbonizing the maritime sector.
“Under the aegis of the ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ initiative, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge is one of the few events where young engineers have a two-fold challenge: to imagine and design innovative solutions, then test them at sea alongside industry professionals. This hands-on experience is what makes it so effective as an open-air innovation laboratory dedicated to the yachting sector’s energy transition,” says YCM Director and General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.
Free Public Village and Interactive Exhibits
The Village, located near the YCM Marina, is free and open to the public from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 July. Visitors can engage with the Winch Challenge, try a virtual reality simulator, and enjoy free ice cream each afternoon. Races are broadcast live on big screens, with prize-giving ceremonies daily at 5:30 pm. The prototypes are displayed in the paddock, allowing close interaction with designers.
Open-Air Laboratory for Alternative Propulsion
The YCM Marina and Monaco’s bay serve as a testing ground for technologies ranging from electric propulsion, hydrogen, methanol, and onboard AI to foils, energy management systems, and bio-sourced materials. These innovations are tested under real-world conditions, assessed equally.
“Young innovators recognize the importance of real-world impact in sustainable research, thus their projects integrate innovative ideas with practical application. We have always had the same attitude: research to achieve concrete outcomes. Because of this, we are making a difference today and by supporting the pioneers participating in the Challenge we will make a difference tomorrow,” says Giovana Vitelli, Chair of Azimut | Benetti Group.
Unmatched Access to Future Boats
The event offers rare proximity to prototypes, with visitors free to move through paddock areas, watch preparations, and talk to young designers. This openness is a hallmark of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, emphasizing knowledge sharing and learning as integral to the event.
