The Principality of Monaco is charting a new course for the future of luxury yachting, announcing a landmark international summit set for March 2026. The event is the result of a pioneering transatlantic partnership between the Yacht Club de Monaco and the prestigious The Explorers Club of New York.
A New Alliance for a New Era of Yachting
The collaboration was formally unveiled by HSH Prince Albert II, President of the Yacht Club de Monaco, during the club's year-end reception. This partnership marks a significant milestone within the broader 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting' initiative. The core mission is to redefine the purpose of yachting, transforming vessels into platforms for knowledge, exploration, and environmental stewardship.
As part of this agreement, a delegation of approximately one hundred members from The Explorers Club—an American institution founded in 1904—will travel to Monaco for the 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous'. This four-day gathering from March 21 to 24, 2026, aims to unite yacht owners, captains, scientists, and innovators around a shared vision of responsible maritime exploration.
Summit Agenda: From Careers to Coral Reefs
The programme is designed to be comprehensive, blending industry development with scientific ambition. It will open on Saturday, March 21, with a first-of-its-kind Yachting Career Fair, dedicated to showcasing the diverse professional opportunities within the sector to younger generations.
The focus shifts to exploration on Sunday, March 22, with an immersive day at Port Hercule. Activities will include the inauguration of an Explorer Dock, visits to specialized explorer yachts, and a friendly regatta to foster dialogue between the yachting and exploration communities.
The scientific heart of the summit beats on Monday, March 23, during the Day of Exploration. In collaboration with the Monaco Scientific Centre, Coral Gardeners, and explorer Victor Vescovo, the day will delve into the deep ocean and coral reef conservation, presenting concrete examples of how superyachts can contribute to vital research.
Operational Solutions and Honouring Exploration
The event concludes on Tuesday, March 24 with the 30th edition of the Captains' Forum. Workshops will focus on practical, onboard operational solutions, with a particular emphasis on the SEA Index®—the Yacht Club de Monaco's tool for measuring and reducing the environmental footprint of superyachts.
The closing highlight will be the presentation of the 6th YCM Explorer Awards. The jury, chaired by Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, will honour projects that exemplify alternative uses of yachts for exploration, research, and innovation. Awards will recognize achievements in technology, adventure, environment, and science.
In a symbolic extension of the partnership, Monaco's historic 15 Metre International class yachts—the flagship Tuiga (1909) and Viola (1908)—will sail to the United States to participate in celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
Through this summit and partnership, the organizers reaffirm a shared vision where technological progress is inseparable from scientific ambition and environmental commitment. They underscore a powerful message: in the modern age, exploring the world's oceans is no longer merely a privilege, but a profound responsibility.
