On the occasion of Yacht Club de Monaco’s end-of-year cocktail reception, its President, HSH Prince Albert II, announced a landmark collaboration between Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) and The Explorers Club of New York, opening a new chapter for the Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting collective initiative.
This strategic alliance brings together two historic institutions that share a deep commitment to exploration, science, and responsible innovation. As part of the partnership, a delegation of nearly 100 members of The Explorers Club, founded in 1904, will visit the Principality from 21 to 24 March 2026, marking a major moment of transatlantic exchange between the worlds of yachting and exploration.
A Transatlantic Symbol of Heritage and Innovation
The collaboration will resonate far beyond Monaco. In a powerful symbolic gesture, Tuiga (1909), the flagship of Yacht Club de Monaco, and Viola (1908) will take part in the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence on 4 July 2026. For Tuiga, a 15 Metre International yacht, this represents a unique and historic milestone.
Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous
21–24 March 2026
Over four days, the Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous will bring together yacht owners, captains, scientists, institutions, explorers, and innovation leaders around a shared ambition: positioning yachting as a platform for knowledge, exploration, and environmental responsibility.
Exploring the Future of Yachting Careers
The programme opens on Saturday 21 March with the Yachting Career Fair, the first event entirely dedicated to professions within the yachting sector. Designed to inspire younger generations, it will showcase the diversity of careers and the growing need for skilled professionals aligned with the industry’s technological and environmental evolution.
From the Surface to the Depths
On Sunday 22 March, Port Hercule will host an immersive exploration-focused day, featuring the inauguration of the Explorer Dock, visits to Explorer yachts, and a friendly regatta encouraging dialogue between the maritime and exploration communities.
Science at the Core of Yachting
The scientific highlight comes on Monday 23 March with the Day of Exploration, dedicated to the deep ocean and coral ecosystems. In collaboration with leading partners such as the Monaco Scientific Centre and Coral Gardeners, and with the participation of renowned explorer Victor Vescovo, the day will demonstrate how superyachts can actively contribute to scientific research and data collection.
The 30th Captains’ Forum: From Vision to Action
The rendezvous concludes on Tuesday 24 March with the 30th Captains’ Forum, focusing on practical, onboard solutions that captains and owners can implement immediately. Workshops will spotlight the SEA Index®, Yacht Club de Monaco’s benchmark tool for measuring and reducing the environmental footprint of superyachts.
Rewarding Ethical Exploration
As both a highlight and closing moment, the 6th YCM Explorer Awards, presented by La Belle Classe Superyachts, will celebrate exemplary projects that redefine the role of yachts as platforms for exploration, research, innovation, and knowledge sharing. Chaired by Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, the jury will recognise outstanding initiatives across technology and innovation, adventure, environment and ethics, and science and discovery, alongside a Jury Special Prize.
A Shared Vision for Responsible Yachting
Through this collaboration, Yacht Club de Monaco and The Explorers Club affirm a shared vision: one where technological progress, scientific research, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. In this new era, exploration is no longer a privilege reserved for a few — it is a responsibility embraced by the global yachting community.
 and The Explorers Club of New York, opening a new chapter for the Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting collective initiative.){kind=link}