The 13th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, organized by Yacht Club de Monaco from July 8 to 11, 2026, will gather 52 teams from 21 nationalities, representing 33 competing universities and 14 additional universities as observers, to showcase the latest advances in clean propulsion systems. The event aims to accelerate the decarbonization of maritime transport by testing technologies ranging from electric and hydrogen propulsion to methanol-powered and foiling solutions.
Global Participation and Industry Collaboration
Held under the “Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting” initiative, the challenge is supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Monaco City Council, UBS, BMW, and SBM Offshore. Leading maritime companies including Safe Harbor, Oceanco, Ferretti Group, Azimut | Benetti Group, Lürssen, ESA NanoTech, and NatPower H—the official hydrogen supplier—are also involved.
“This year, we are welcoming back regular attendee teams, as well as new ones, and for the first time universities coming to observe and prepare to enter the competition in the future. This is undoubtedly the best indicator of the momentum driving the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. It has become a place where ideas circulate, experiences are shared and the next generation of engineers works alongside industry professionals to progress sustainable maritime technologies,” said Yacht Club de Monaco Director and General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.
Growing Interest from American Universities
A notable development this year is a delegation from four American institutions—Columbia University, George Washington University, Howard University, and Florida International University—which will attend to explore participation opportunities for the 2027 edition. The event also features conferences, technology demonstrations, and public activities, with free access to the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge Village where visitors can meet teams, discover emerging technologies, and follow competitions live.
Unique Ecosystem and Mentoring Program
The challenge is built on a unique ecosystem that brings together students, alumni, researchers, and industry professionals. Through its Corporate Mentoring Program, partner companies support teams by providing technical expertise, feedback, and an industry perspective. “At UBS, our partnership with Yacht Club de Monaco and the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge demonstrates our strong commitment to innovation, sustainable development and responsible progress. We are proud to encourage the next generation of talent helping to build cleaner and more efficient maritime mobility,” said Alejandro Velez, Director of UBS Monaco, Spain & Portugal.
The program also highlights growing links between academia and industry through mentoring initiatives and entrepreneurial success stories. Among them is Monaco-based startup Nemo-Systems, founded by former competitors, which now provides real-time performance monitoring technology for all participating boats.
