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Interview: Yacht Club de Monaco Director Bernard D’Alessandri

This year marks the 10 th anniversary of the Yacht Club of Monaco clubhouse and, as General Secretary and Managing Director Bernard D’Alessandri explained to Monaco Life , it’s been pivotal in the evolution of the Yacht Club of Monaco.

Bernard D’Alessandri has been at the helm of the Yacht Club of Monaco since 1976, over 48 years, and under his tenure as general secretary and managing director, the club moved to a new state-of-the-art premises. Since then, membership has increased exponentially, representing a myriad of nationalities.

Prince Rainier III created the Yacht Club of Monaco in 1953 and it has been presided over by Prince Albert II since 1984, when he gave it a new impetus. It is important to remember that the first regattas date from 1863; before the YCM, there was the Monaco Nautical Society, so the Principality has integrated the world of yachting for over 160 years, well over a century.

After the Yacht Club de Monaco’s 70 th  anniversary celebrations last year, festivities continue in 2024 with the commemoration of 10 years in the new clubhouse designed by Lord Foster, one of the most prominent architects in Great Britain. Once again, the calendar lives up to the ambitions of the collective ‘Monaco, Capital of  Advanced Yachting’ approach, initiated by YCM to position the Principality as a center of excellence in this sector. High-level sport, the environment, luxury yachting, and maritime heritage are again in the spotlight throughout the year.

Nicholas Monsarrat wisely said: “Sailors, with their built-in sense of order, service, and discipline, should really be running the world.” That is precisely how Bernard d’Alessandri has captained the Yacht Club of Monaco for almost five decades, plus his magnetism and charisma.

Monaco Life: What does this anniversary milestone mean to its members, yachting, and the Principality?

Bernard d’Alessandri: This 10th anniversary of the new clubhouse is significant, as we wanted to reflect the international ambitions of the Principality. The Yacht Club de Monaco has two primary missions. Firstly, it is a private club that brings together people who are passionate about the sea. It has 2,500 members representing 81 nationalities and aims to be a unique place to live. It is, therefore, responsible for organising numerous events exclusively for its members.

But the YCM also has a public service mission to promote the yachting destination. It is a driving force in the port and in raising Monaco’s international profile. It is a veritable showcase for yachting that is undergoing a fascinating transformation. Today, sustainability is the watchword. In line with HSH, Prince Albert II’s vision, “Proof must replace promise”: we must reinforce and quantify actions to promote them with facts and figures. Under a policy firmly focused on protecting the environment, and as part of the collective ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ approach, the YCM is ramping up initiatives that underpin its commitment.

What are the added benefits of this impressive new building that became the centerpiece of the harbour?

The Club, open to the sea and Monaco, is an iconic structure at 43°44’15” north latitude and 7°25’40” east longitude. This ship-like building, inaugurated in 2014, boasts 5,000 m2 of interior space, 4,000 m2 of terraces, 204 meters long, a height of 22 meters, and six floors, allowing for the simultaneous hosting of various events.

YCM is committed to environmental protection through initiatives like the YCM Explorer Awards-La Belle Classe (21 st March 2024) and the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (1 st to 16 th July 2024). The clubhouse reflects this commitment, built to Haute Qualité Environnementale HQE standards and consistently meeting ISO 14001 criteria since 2016.

Eco-friendly features include photovoltaic cells, energy-efficient LED lighting, adequate energy, heating, waste, and water management systems, a harbor water-recycling hydro cooling system, electric vehicle and boat charging points, and widespread photovoltaic and thermal solar panels. Recently, we added a plant to treat the Club’s pool water, further contributing to boat washing in the Sports Section. A temporary standalone hydrogen production station, a world premiere, has also been installed.

YCM also promotes individual eco-responsibility and raises awareness among yacht owners through the SEA Index, encouraging the reduction of CO2 emissions in yachting. Event organisation includes using dynamic buoys with electric motors, preserving the ecosystem, and electric boats for events and sailing courses.

Actively engaged in promoting individual eco-responsibility, YCM also raises awareness of yacht owners through the SEA Index, the first carbon footprint calculator to allow quick comparisons between superyachts over 25m, targeting objectives to reduce CO2 emissions in yachting with an incentive system for the most virtuous.

Event organisation is not left out. With the Club’s use of dynamic buoys equipped with an electric motor to position them remotely throughout a race, there is no need to anchor them to the seabed, which protects it, and a portable battery so it can run PC regattas autonomously in terms of energy. The use of semi-rigid electric boats for events and its many sailing courses completes the solutions now in place.

All these actions illustrate YCM’s ambitious, proactive vision of what being eco-responsible means today.

How did your work change when the MYC moved from its smaller, familiar quarters to the new state-of-the-art building?

To be honest, we weren’t very confident at the beginning, as it was a significant challenge to undertake. However, this new building quickly brought about substantial changes to our work, opening a world of possibilities. Firstly, this new spacious infrastructure allowed us to host and coordinate various events simultaneously, which was challenging in our former, more confined premises. The addition of Lord Foster’s signature boosted our international reputation. This yacht-shaped building showcased Monaco’s yachting prestige and the Yacht Club of Monaco, solidifying its status as a leading institution in the international yachting arena. Ultimately, this building marked a pivotal milestone in the evolution of the Yacht Club of Monaco.

What is your secret for keeping the soul of the YCM intact despite moving to more extensive facilities with an increased membership?

We were committed to preserving the soul of the Yacht Club of Monaco despite moving to larger facilities and increasing our membership by embracing our motto, ‘One Spirit, One Team, One Club’. Our unwavering dedication to preserving our heritage, promoting a welcoming atmosphere, and continuously involving our 2,500 members has been crucial. We have carefully preserved significant elements from our previous location, strengthened our staff, and maintained our Club’s friendly spirit.

There is no better tool or equipment you can have on board than a well-trained crew. What strategy do you employ for building an efficient work team? 

Passion is our driving force and a unifying factor among our staff. Probably due to the unique nature of the YCM being a private club, YCM staff shares a deep attachment to our members and the values of yachting. This devotion for the sea and yachting is accompanied by continuous training and various complementary profiles, with everyone committed to excellence in serving our members.

How do you interact with the Board of Directors? What would you say is their primary role?  

We have a very regular exchange on roadmaps and policies. It’s a collaborative effort, and discussion is essential. The Executive Committee is like a council of wise men, an approval authority for the YCM budget and overall strategy.

So many events, so little time! How do you organise so many members’ events, sailing school, yachting conferences, exhibitions, competitive regattas, private affairs, and more?

I think it’s a matter of strong will. We have incredibly motivated competent teams working tirelessly to ensure our events run smoothly. We also rely on the Commissaires Fleet, comprised of many Yacht Club of Monaco volunteers. They are the living force contributing enthusiasm and their expertise to organising all the Club’s events. Working hand in hand with the Club’s staff, the Commissaires Fleet is organised into five departments and offers its recruits training courses throughout the year to ensure the quality of the welcome and the smooth running of the Club’s gatherings, positioning it as a benchmark in sporting events.

What is the most rewarding about being a director of the YCM?

It is undoubtedly seeing the joy on the faces of those who come regularly to the Club and participate in our events, whether they are members, sailors, the yachting industry professionals, or the public. But I’m also thinking of the young racers in the Club’s sports section. They come to training with smiles and make memories that will last a lifetime. That’s priceless!

What was the most challenging task you faced in your career so far?

I think it’s the one common to all industries and institutions nowadays: access to sustainability. We continue to transform, as do all conscientious industries. All the players are willing and open to change, but the biggest challenge is not change itself but the acceleration of the process.

How do you see the Yacht Club of Monaco evolving into the future?

I hope the Club will continue its momentum and remain a significant player in the yachting world and through the environmental transition. I hope the industry will continue its eco-responsible evolution and become a model to follow. My aspiration at my level and with my means is that I will have contributed to this change.

Above all, I want to share my passion for yachting with the new generation, which is the key to everything. It is for them that we are working to accompany the sector’s mutation, to encourage it to become more eco-responsible to protect the environment and allow our children to continue to enjoy the sea. In line with the wishes of YCM President HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, who believes, “Faced with the climate emergency, it is imperative that living proof of progress replaces the promises,” we strive to demonstrate that the technology exists and is efficient.

RELATED ARTICLE:

How the YCM’s SEA Index is setting the gold standard for sustainability assessment in yachting

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Interview: Yacht Club de Monaco Director Bernard D'Alessandri - Monaco Life

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Yacht Club of Monaco clubhouse and, as General Secretary and Managing Director Bernard D’Alessandri explained to Monaco Life, it’s been pivotal in the evolution of the Yacht Club of Monaco.

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By SuperyachtNews 27 Sep 2022

From cosy yacht club to world knowledge bank

Bernard d’alessandri, general secretary and managing director of yacht club de monaco, explores its evolution from meeting place to platform for change….

The superyacht industry is at an interesting juncture in its development. Unlike previous years, when growth was primarily focused on selling and building as many vessels as possible, there is now a much greater emphasis on sustainable growth and long-term viability.

Yacht Club de Monaco has a vital role to play in the superyacht industry’s future and its model has changed to take on far more responsibility, leveraging its vital link between owner and industry.

“If we go back to 2012, the Yacht Club de Monaco in its current form did not exist. We were in a different location on the other side of the marina,” says general secretary and managing director Bernard d’Alessandri. “It was, like most other yacht clubs, a cosy traditional yacht club that served as a meeting place for our various members. However, when we changed the building to where we are today, the expectations for what we must achieve changed overnight.

“Today, our primary roles are twofold. Firstly, we are the world’s premier yacht club and, secondly, we have a duty to promote yachting and Monaco to the world.”

While this view might be contested by various other yachting hubs around the world, it’s generally accepted that Monaco is the true global capital of yachting and, as such, it was never likely that Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) would be able to continue being just a yacht club in the purest sense. The world, whether Monaco and the yacht club like it or not, looks to the region to set the agenda for the yachting community and lead by example when it comes to supporting and implementing change.

Of course, there are limits to what an institution such as YCM can achieve given the complexity of the assets, the profile of their owners and the speed and variety of ongoing developments.

“In terms of development, YCM’s most important role is to be a platform of communication. We have to present the solutions to our members and try to create links between them and the premium industry at large,” adds d’Alessandri.

“Within an industry that is so incredibly complex, from the engine room to the unique relationships between stakeholders, it is impossible to contain all the necessary knowledge in-house. That said, it is our job to do whatever we can to bring the most pertinent developments, especially where this relates to sustainable solutions.”

With such a high concentration of industry players and businesses within an area of only two kilometres (1,561 employees, 150 companies and €753m of annual superyachting revenue), YCM, on moving to its current facility in 2012, launched the Monaco Capital of Yachting project to further strengthen the business in the region and reaffirm the Principality’s position as a global leader.

“Without immediate change, there simply will be no industry in the future. As the oceans become increasingly damaged, fewer and fewer people will want to go yachting. The two are inexorably linked and we must do everything in our power to protect the oceans.”

At its core, the Capital of Yachting project focused on the promotion of luxury and superyachting, and how they both related to Monaco. However, earlier this year, it was determined that the Capital of Yachting project simply did not go far enough, so YCM launched Monaco Capital of Advanced Yachting.

At that launch, Pierre Dartout, minister of state for Monaco, said, “The vision is simple: Monaco must always be ahead on economic and environmental issues. We must mobilise all stakeholders. It is an essential factor in our economy’s appeal to business as the Principality offers an exceptional network of all professions operating in this industry.”

“Because of the influence that Monaco has on the superyacht industry, we have a responsibility to promote not only luxury and the superyacht experience, but also the most sustain-able and beneficial ways of yachting,” says d’Alessandri. “Personally, I feel an immense amount of guilt and shame for the way that the industry has conducted itself up to this point.

“Of course, during certain periods, we were not furnished with all the necessary information, nor indeed were certain systems and practices available to make yachting more sustainable. Nevertheless, I am determined to use my remaining time to leave the industry in as good a position as possible to try to balance my own impact.

The guiding principle of the Advanced Yachting project is to drive growth that is not only economically sound, but also pays due respect to the environment through engaging stakeholders in a number of projects to promote sustainable yachting.

However, it’s important not to see the project as just a sustainability initiative because the industry’s future and growth is dependent on making sustainability an economically viable option. Pulling the project together is a charter that allows stakeholders to make clear their commitment to sustainable development.

Founded by YCM and Credit Suisse, the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA) has been introduced to increase the industry’s awareness of its carbon footprint. Through the SEA Index, YCM and its partners aim to create a clear system for rating the carbon efficiency of superyachts.

While there are also various other systems of measurement, these are primarily aimed at technically and scientifically minded businesses and individuals; the SEA Index aims to simplify the process to allow owners and other major stakeholders to easily track the credentials of their own vessels, with a mind to making changes and improving their ratings.

The hope is that the SEA Index will become a global standard of measurement for the industry. As well as the SEA Index, a number of ongoing programmes, including Ocean Week and Energy Boat Challenge, will continue to drive the sustainable agenda.

“Faced with the now all too obvious effects of the climate emergency, we need to be agents of change,” emphasises d’Alessandri. “The whole yachting eco-system has to evolve. As a communication platform, YCM wants to highlight and test new solutions, like alternative power sources for boats; that’s the aim of YCM’s Monaco Energy Boat Challenge that celebrates 10 years [5-8 July 2023].

“But it’s also vital to have intelligent virtuous marinas to accommodate them, hence our support for the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous [25-26 September 2022]. It really is a unique opportunity to get the whole ecosystem together – start-ups, manufacturers, investors, yachting professionals, etc. – to build the future. After all, marinas are like micro-cities.”

To fully understand the evolution of YCM, an analogy can be drawn between it and the World Bank. Originally created to provide loans, debt relief and various other financial mechanisms to promote free market-led recovery in struggling nations, the World Bank realised a number of years ago that its primary function was not enough to spearhead effective change.

Gradually, the World Bank developed the notion of becoming a knowledge bank as well as being a financial institution, and YCM has gone through a similar transition. Its original model, a cosy yacht club, was not sufficient to support sustainable growth of the industry. Today, YCM is a knowledge bank and communications platform that is taking on ever more responsibility for the development of the industry.

As the conduit between the premium industry and some of the world’s most influential superyacht owners, the platform and communications channel that YCM now represents is vital for not only stimulating market growth, but also stimulating the right kind of market growth. D’Alessandri and his team have a vital role to play in showing the market how change should be implemented.

This article first appeared in  T he Superyacht Owner Repor t . To gain access to The Superyacht Group’s full suite of content, publications, events and services, click here to join The Superyacht Group Community and become one of our members.

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Bernard D’Alessandri and the future of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge

With the latest Monaco Energy Boat Challenge , held from 4 to 9 July, the Yacht Club of Monaco confirmed its important role as a supporter of zero-impact and eco-sustainable boating. It was a very successful event, the only one in the world dedicated to boating innovation and sustainability, in which young engineers from all over the world and belonging to 27 different universities from over 20 countries participated to showcase their prototypes of clean energy boats through various types of competitions. We met Bernard d’Alessandri, Secretary General of the Monaco Yacht Club since 1984, who revealed important insights into the Principality’s future projects.

Mr Bernard D’Alessandri, what are the values that drove you to promote this event?

“ We invented nothing; we simply took up the idea of automobile competitions. Between 1904 and the First World War, Monaco was already at this time the place where people competed to switch from the steam engine to the heat engine. One of the most important automobile competitions in Europe was organized in Monaco at that time and already had 10,000 spectators. Today, we are still a land of innovation and since 2014, with the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge , we want to give a new impetus to the yachting players and turn this sector into a real industry. Monaco is now a platform for research and communication, a kind of laboratory where new technologies necessary for the energy transition are tested and implemented, in collaboration with young engineers from all over the world and the industrialists who participate in this event”.

It is an event that has grown bigger and bigger over the years. What are this year’s figures and what are your future goals?

“We started with the Solar Class in 2014 and today we have three classes in different categories, in which 38 teams participated in the last edition. This year was the first time an Indian team participated, and on this occasion the ambassador of India travelled specially to support the team. In short, there is a real buzz around this event that promises us some great technological performances and interesting innovations. The ambition will be to run this event for four days with zero emissions”.

To what extent do you think this event contributes to the technological development of alternative energies in boating?

During the event, we noticed the presence of a Job Forum. How does this initiative contribute to the creation of new jobs for young people?

“The main objective of the Job Forum, with the involvement of the Prince of Monaco and his Albert II Foundation, is to work for and with young people, who are directly involved in and impacted by this energy transition. The Job Forum is designed to give young engineers the opportunity to meet with the yachting industry (this sector is currently experiencing a shortage of engineers) and to create new employment opportunities and develop the professions of the future”.

“Monaco Capital of Advanced Yachting” is a large-scale project which includes the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. What does this initiative represent for the boating world and for the Principality of Monaco?

“The goal is the consolidation of Monaco as one of the international yachting capitals. Enforcing a commitment is not only a concept, but also a way of thinking about the positioning of yachting: by transmitting our environmental values, we want to create a common vision of hospitality, services, performance; to share our knowledge and create a true international network”.

“I think the energy transition will take place if it is accompanied by an economic transition. Boating must be seen as a real industry, similar to tourism: moving with a yacht, from a certain size upwards, is a bit like moving with an entire hotel. You can’t predict what will happen with the different forms of energy that will be used, and if, for example, we think of electricity for cars, the problem is quickly understood: how will it be possible to recharge all these cars with nuclear power stations, if half of them in France have been closed? We don’t have all the solutions yet and we have to keep working together to find alternatives. The use of liquid hydrogen is now an interesting avenue to pursue, but there must be a strong will on the part of the shipyards and the marine industry to invest in research, which is still too fragile if we compare it to the automotive industry. On the other hand, a regulation dedicated to eco-sustainable boating will inevitably have to be put in place in order to regulate and organize this energy transition”.

You also developed a special metaverse for the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge event. Why?

“We don’t pretend to say that we created a real metaverse, but since it is new, we wanted to try. We tried to get as close as possible to our target audience, which is young people: today we can choose between paper communication, traditional television or this new tool that is the metaverse, and we chose the latter to be closer to the gaming universe of young people. Thanks to this more playful tool, in fact, inside they can find all the information about the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge and virtually walk around the marina. This is also part of the ‘Monaco Capital of Advanced Yachting’, a project that seeks to change codes and use new means of communication, allowing us to spread our messages in a more interactive way. For now it is only a first step, but we will continue in this direction”.

The Monaco Yacht Club is a partner in the development of the Corinthia Yacht Club in Doha, Qatar. Can you tell us more about this?

“This project is part of the ‘Belle Classe Destination’. We were asked to share our expertise on projects to develop new destinations, and this allows us to pass on the Principality’s values, experience and know-how of the Yacht Club to the world: it’s a way of guaranteeing quality performance for users, offering environmental, reception and service guarantees; with the aim of forming an international network between partner yacht clubs and creating interaction on sporting events with young competitors through the Monaco Sport Academy. It is a way of promoting yachting internationally through sharing common values”.

In general, what are the Monaco Yacht Club’s goals for the future?

“Faced with the climate emergency we are witnessing every day, we have to be actors of change and contribute to this transformation. The entire yachting sector is interested and must evolve. As a true platform for communication and exchange, the Yacht Club of Monaco’s desire is to highlight and test the new solutions that exist, both in terms of propulsion and alternative energies. This is the vocation of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, organized by our Club and whose 10th edition we will be celebrating next year from 5 to 8 July 2023, but this is also a general objective concerning the promotion and development of virtuous and intelligent marinas that can host sustainable yachts. As such, the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous, which the Yacht Club of Monaco will host on 25 and 26 September 2022, offers a unique opportunity to bring together the entire ecosystem made up of marinas, start-ups, industrialists and financiers, with the will to achieve a future that must be eco-responsible, considering marinas as micro-cities of the future.”

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Interview: Abdullah Nahar and Bernard D'Alessandri

Bernard d'Alessandri and Abdullah Nahar discuss the future of yachting

Abdullah Nahar, Director, YPI and Bernard d’Alessandri, Secrétaire Général & Directeur Général, Yacht Club de Monaco discuss the future of yachting, sustainability and the next generation of yachting enthusiasts.

1. The Yacht Club de Monaco unites yachting enthusiasts in Monaco and beyond. What do you think makes the YCM and yachting so special?

Bernard d'Alessandri: Firstly, the YCM is special, possibly unique in the world because it is a private club with a public service remit to promote the Principality. Born out of the Société Nautique des Régates established in 1888 and founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier III, it draws on close to 150 years of yachting tradition in the Principality — almost as much as the America’s Cup, the oldest sports trophy in the world.

Second, like the Principality, it is a very cosmopolitan Club which is reflected in our membership: 2,500 members from 79 nationalities. All are united by their love of the sea and yachting and the values they represent: solidarity among seafarers, naval etiquette at sea and ashore, respect for maritime heritage, and a determination to protect the marine environment – the sea is their playground after all - through innovation.

And finally, we are very inclusive and encourage members to get involved. For example, our annual Oktoberfest party was instigated by our German members while the Russian community were a driving force behind our Russian New Year party in January. Their involvement and presence as Club representatives abroad, when competing in major regattas for example, make them our best ambassadors. Their pride in the Club is embodied by our motto, ‘One Spirit, One Team, One Club’ and collectively we are proud to belong to the global yachting fraternity.

Abdullah Nahar: YPI was founded on a love of sailing and a passion for the ocean and following my appointment as a director of YPI, I have quickly come to truly share this philosophy. We honour the same traditions and shared values as the YCM. YPI is one of the world’s oldest yachting houses and we have a mutual understanding and respect for the Club. Our collective ambition to protect the marine environment made this partnership a natural fit. What makes the YCM truly special is the diversity of the members, with global perspectives and conversations taking place every day that will help shape the future of our industry for decades to come.

2. What brought you into yachting and motivated you to build a career in the industry?

Bd'A: I was a child when I discovered sailing. My first time on the water was on an Optimist, I experienced such a wonderful feeling of freedom. That was the beginning and I have not looked back! I started at the YCM in 1976 and I have been at the helm for 44 years. I am lucky to have a job that allows me to live, work and breathe my passion, and which puts me in contact with all those involved in the industry.

AN: I purchased my first motorboat at the age of 21 while living in the US, and it was a great source of joy and freedom. That ignited a real passion, and I am extremely fortunate that my career has led me to part of the industry. The partnerships and collaboration taking place between designers, shipbuilders, clients and the YCM is a great source of excitement and opportunity, and a shared motivation to accomplish our ambitions for the global yachting community.

3. YPI is the yacht club’s first Nautical Partner, what are your hopes for the future and what do you hope to achieve by working together?

Bd'A: Our ambition with this partnership is to appeal to a new generation of owners and support them in their yachting adventure. YPI, under Abdullah Nahar’s leadership, is seeking to establish a new type of relationship with the yachting world. I am convinced that with this dynamic young team new horizons will be explored, in line with our values.

AN: It is a phenomenal achievement for YPI to be the Club’s first Nautical Partner. Attracting the new generation of industry talent, welcoming new clients and owners and protecting the marine environment are essential to the future of our industry. I am confident that with Bernard D’Alessandri’s leadership and expertise and both YCM’s and YPI’s team we have the talent, skills and enthusiasm to amplify the Principality’s global appeal and create further exceptional experiences.

4. How can organisations like the Yacht Club de Monaco and YPI encourage the next generation of yachting enthusiasts and talent within the industry?

Bd'A: In my opinion, we must be innovative to keep thinking outside the box to build the future and attract young people. A prime example is the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge we organise every year to encourage student engineers, working with the industry, to develop clean propulsion systems for boats. The current health crisis is another big challenge. We just finished the ‘Monaco Capital of Yachting Experience’, combining face-to-face and remote participation. Its success, judging by the numbers who joined us online and used the replay facility, demonstrates that Monaco is the epicentre of yachting.

AN: Over the last decade we have welcomed new yachting enthusiasts from regions such as China, India and the Middle East, with a younger audience coming from tech hotspots such as Silicon Valley. For us, it’s about communicating the unique benefits only achieved from yachting; the feeling of freedom from being out on the water, the access to untouched, isolated destinations and to some of the world’s most beautiful locations, and the memories you create that can last a lifetime for family and friends. We also know that we need to demonstrate the technological and engineering innovations taking place that will see yachts having a reduced impact on the marine environment, and encourage young talent to collaborate and share their innovations and thought leadership within this space.

5. The Yacht Club de Monaco is an active advocate for sustainability and the protection of marine life. What do you hope to see over the next ten years?

Bd'A: Cleaner greener alternative fuels for boats! In the YCM Marina we are setting an example with rapid charging stations installed for electric boats and three electric tenders for the Marina and for supervising sailing classes. We are also building a zero-emission committee boat for regattas, with a hybrid electric-hydrogen system for propulsion and onboard energy needs, so no noise pollution and no emissions. Meanwhile, in response to growing demand from owners we joined forces with partners to launch the first emissions rating for superyachts in September [during the Monaco Capital of Yachting Experience]. Called the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA) Index, it is a bespoke tool to help owners assess and improve their yachts’ environmental performance. It is only by acting together that we will succeed in making our contribution to a more climate-friendly yachting sector, one that will do everything in its power to reduce the effects of air and sea pollution, and will encourage good practices across the board by owners and crew.

AN: We know that clients are increasingly concerned about the impact the industry can have on the environment and one marine life in vulnerable ecosystems. It is an ongoing, daily conversation but we’re making great strides with initiatives such as plastic free charters, internal sustainability champions at YPI and innovations happening within yacht design and build. The next decade is going to be vital in taking huge strides to protect the planet for future generations, and YPI and YCM are committed to making this happen.

6. Finally, what is your favourite sailing memory or anecdote?

Bd'A: A difficult one – there are so many. My two favourites are when I skippered Biotonus-YCM for the Monaco-New York transatlantic in 1985, then all the years being at the helm of the Yacht Club’s flagship Tuiga (1909), which will be participating in the 2021 Monaco Classic Week (8-12 September).

AN: I’ve been lucky to have spent time on chartered superyachts with colleagues, family and friends, and we’ve always come away with unforgettable memories and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A personal highlight from the last year has been the time spent with Bernard and the YCM during the pandemic, which has become a safe haven for many during this challenging time.

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Monaco Yacht Club unveils very full 2024 program

Posted by Staff Writer | Jan 5, 2024 | Yachting & Aviation

High level sport, environment, luxury yachting and maritime heritage are again in the spotlight throughout the Yacht Club de Monaco’s 2024, the Club said on January 5.

A full calendar is waiting ahead as the YCM prepares to celebrate the 10 years in the new Clubhouse designed by Lord Foster. After the 70th anniversary celebrations last year, festivities continue under the collective ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ approach, aiming at positioning the Principality as a centre of excellence in this sector.

14th Monaco Optimist Team Race (10-14 January) where youth and performance combine – From 10th January, the international Optimist team racing elite will be in Monaco for the 14th Monaco Optimist Team Race. This year 17 nations, including USA, Sweden, Uruguay, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Italy, Netherlands, Turkey, France, UK and Monaco are represented by 72 under-14 sailors as the event’s popularity grows. The match racing format pits two teams of four boats in each race which totals 153 races in the knock-out rounds leading up to the finals and requires finely tuned skills, tactics and teamwork to hone their race techniques and knowledge of the race area contestants already on site can participate in the International Clinic (8-10 January) supervised by umpire and international judge from World Sailing, Chris Atkins.

16th Business Symposium (8th February) for yachting professionals – The 16th edition of this annual industry meeting will take stock of the market and economic weight of the yachting industry on the Côte d’Azur. Organised in the form of a dinner-debate, the La Belle Classe Superyachts Business Symposium gathers owners and professionals to analyse the yachting sector, explore its evolution and gain a deeper understanding of its challenges and issues.

One design elite celebrates the 40th Primo Cup-Trophée UBS (7-10 March). In February top international J/70 teams who’ve established their winter base in the Principality meet for Act III of the 11th Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series (8-11 February), monthly regattas that have become a fixture on racing calendars. It promises to be a tight contest for the fleet, currently led by Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio’s crew from Monaco on G-Spot. Then Act IV (7-10 March) coincides with the 40th Primo Cup-Trophée UBS when other one design classes namely Smeralda 888, Longtze Premier, RS 21, Cape 31 and historic stars of the event, Surprise, will also be out on the race area. Launched in 1985 on the instigation of YCM President HSH Prince Albert II this major regatta awards the top three teams in each class with Slam sailing gear and has established itself as the biggest European gathering of one designs in the Mediterranean. March ends on a high note with the 2nd Women Leading and Sailing Trophy regatta (15-17 March), an all-female event organised in partnership with the Monegasque and French sailing federations.

Monaco Ocean Week (18-22 March) focuses on the environment – During Monaco Ocean Week, organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation alongside the Monaco Oceanographic Institute and Monaco Scientific Centre, YCM is responsible for the yachting component of this week dedicated to protecting the oceans. There will be three events on Thursday 21st March at the YCM starting with the 13th

Environmental Symposium. After the success of Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous (next one 22-23 September 2024), M3 (Monaco Marina Management) is organising the 2nd Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous, a networking event that concludes on Friday 22nd March with the Smart Innovative Yacht Awards. The meeting is supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. It involves the whole ecosystem in the drive to virtuous yachting by fostering exchanges and innovations that could bring major changes to the sector. Also on Thursday 21st March is the 4th YCM Explorer Awards by La Belle Classe Superyachts. Organised under the presidency of HSH Prince Albert II since 2018, these awards recognise owners who stand out for their commitment to protecting the marine environment, be it in the design of their yacht or how they use it. Prizes are awarded by a jury of professionals in three categories: Technology & Innovation, Mediation & Science, Adventure & Environmental Ethics. An opportunity to reward men and women who as tomorrow’s explorers perpetuate a certain ‘Art de Vivre la Mer’ which is at the heart of the Club’s core values.

Superyacht Chef Competition shines spotlight on a profession (4 April 2024) – For the fifth year in a row, chefs working on superyachts will be at the YCM for the Superyacht Chef Competition, organised by the Club in partnership with Bluewater. The principle is simple: bring nine chefs together to compete on the quay at work stations based on small galleys in certain yachts, conjuring up dishes from a basket of mystery ingredients: “Held under the aegis of YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre, it attracts professionals and the public and offers a unique perspective of yachting professions,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.

Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (1-6 July): 11 years of innovations -Helping build tomorrow’s yachting future is a key priority for YCM, an ambition it pursues through the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge for alternative energy sources and technologies. For over ten years this event has been bringing young engineers from technical colleges and universities into contact with yachting industry players. In 2023, 46 teams, representing 31 universities and 25 nations demonstrated the efficiency of their solutions shared in open source. Big name shipyards like Oceanco, Ferretti, Sanlorenzo, Lürssen, Monaco Marine and Palumbo SY Refit were involved in the Mentoring Program. This year for its fifth consecutive participation, event partner SBM Offshore is installing a floating pontoon producing green hydrogen to supply participating teams ahead of the Challenge. At the same time, the Mentoring Program and Job Forum are providing professional support and internships or job opportunities.

ORIGINAL SOURCE & PHOTO: Monaco Yacht Club

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Monaco Yacht Club showcases yachting of tomorrow

The Yacht Club de Monaco hosted the 2nd Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous, supported by the Prince Albert II Foundation, along with major partners such as UBS, Sindalah, the MB92 Group shipyard and Wider Yachts.

The aim of the Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous is to promote sustainable solutions and new technologies for the yachting industry, particularly for yachts over 24m.

“All stakeholders in our sector need to be driving technological progress if we are to make the maritime world more sustainable,” said Bernard d’Alessandri, Secretary General of the Monaco Yacht Club.  “It has to be a collective effort.” 

Yacht Club de Monaco awards exploration and innovation prizes.

The aim of the networking event, which follows on from the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous (22-23 September 2024), is to further the energy transition and foster responsible solutions within the yachting industry.

“Navigating a course to a sustainable horizon in the yachting industry is not just about wind and sails, but also innovation and collective commitment,” said José Marco Casellini, Managing Director of Monaco Marina Management.

Innovations examined by an international jury

“From concept to dismantling every decision directs us towards a future where conscience meets excellence. We must harness the air of change and lead our industry towards an ocean of ethical and responsible actions.” 

The innovations were presented to the international jury members, around twenty industry professionals and investors, through 149 remote interviews.

Participants were able to share their expertise and ‘draw the blueprint’ for the Smart Yacht of tomorrow during specific workshops.

New hydrogen pontoon in Monaco Yacht Club marina

“We need startups, we need ideas, we need the young generation to change the mistakes of the past,”  said explorer Mike Horn .

Very interested in the exhibition area, the explorer visited the different solutions on display, including Beyond the Sea by yachtsman Yves Parlier, and Coreod Space, a French start-up that was presenting its AI-powered virtual reality headset.

Winners of the Smart Innovative Yacht Awards 2024

The international jury, made up of around twenty yachting professionals and investors, presented two Smart Innovative Yacht Awards this year. Start-up company Composite-Recycling and the Greenboats scale-up received awards.

Guillaume Perben, co-founder and Managing Director of Composite-Recycling.  “We recycle composite materials used to build boats and wind turbines and enable them to become new boats in a way that closes the loop of the constituent materials.   We are very pleased to have won this award for the work we’re doing on recycling boats, helping make boating sustainable and something that no longer harms the environment.”

Loris Schimanski, Business Developer at Greenboats: “ We are delighted to have won this award and been recognised by these industry giants. Over the last few years, we’ve been working flat-out on R&D to try and develop fibres that can compete with glass fibres and, even better, be lighter. It’s a solution based on panels that can be more easily assembled in the big shipyards to reduce the carbon footprint.”

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Gourmet pleasures: superyacht chefs compete on creativity

4th April 2024

 All the best ingredients were there to ensure a successful 5 th   Superyacht Chef Competition, organised by Yacht Club de Monaco and Bluewater. As part of the YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre, the contest once again brought together the cream of fine cuisine, both behind the stoves and in the Jury. “ Every year, this event gathers professionals passionate about their art, ready to take on the challenge of producing refined dishes in restricted work spaces so characteristic of a galley. By putting the spotlight on this often overlooked facet of yachting professions, the Superyacht Chef Competition helps reinforce values of the collective ‘Monaco Capital of  Advanced  Yachting’ approach ,” said YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri, the evening before when the chefs were seated at a table in the Yacht Club de Monaco enjoying a social occasion.

  Palace hotel culture

Supervised by Chef  Joël Garault , President of Goûts et Saveurs, this vintage once again produced some surprises. A host of professionals joined the international jury to give their verdicts on some memorable culinary experiences, headed by Chef  Glenn Viel  who succeeded Yannick Alléno this year. The three Michelin star chef promotes eco-responsible cuisine, a fusion of Breton and Provencal flavours. “ It’s a fast-paced contest. We had very dynamic candidates who produced some fabulous dishes in a very short time. The level was high and everything I ate today very good,”  said the man who officiates on the jury of the Top Chef show. This year also welcomed  Marco Tognon  (M/Y  Planet  – 72m), winner of last year’s edition; Chef  Danny Davies , host of ‘Behind the Line with Chef Danny Davies’ and experienced vegan author of two books; Chef  Julien Roucheteau , a former student of the Ferrandi School in Paris and two-time Michelin star; Chef  Fred Ramos , disciple of the renowned Jacques Maximin ; and  Victoria Vallenilla . The Objectif Top Chef finalist was impressed by how responsive they all were: “ They don’t have much time and are discovering these workstations without knowing where things are. They’re also cooking under pressure with an audience watching them. It’s already proof of a certain mastery of their profession”.

Culinary art in the spotlight

Nine superyacht chefs set foot on terra firma to get busy in the workstations set up for them on the quay. Paulo Ucha Longhin (M/Y  Hercules  – 50m), Joelyanne Lefaucher (M/Y  Artemis  – 33m), Mateusz Mitka (M/Y  Lady Britt  – 63m), Margot Laurent (M/Y  Leonardo III  – 43m), Enzo Di Gabro (M/Y  L.A.U.L.  – 39m), Giacomo Seregni (M/Y  Severin’s  – 55m), Jérémie Gruson (M/Y  Victoria del mar  – 50m) and Ava Faulkner (M/Y  Light Holic  – 60m) tackled the tasks with dexterity. Contestants kept cool heads as the basket of mystery ingredients was only unveiled five minutes before the start. A moment of reflection to get the creative juices going while the public decided via a QR code which extra ingredient to add. Thinking on their feet and flexibility are key attributes of chefs on superyachts. The big winner was Paulo Ucha Longhi (M/Y  Hercules ) for his recipe based on glazed lobster, hazelnut butter and bisque, a lemon tartare and caviar, followed by a dessert of mascarpone cream with cocoa and strawberry tartare with basil and lemon cream. “ I was very stressed but in a good way but the moment I arrived at the workstation I forgot everything and gave it my best shot. If you know how to organise it all from the start, it can work ,” said the winner of this fifth edition.

This year, contestants combined creativity with sustainability as they had to adhere to an anti-food waste criterium under the beady eyes of Chef  Duncan Biggs . They had to use every ingredient in the mystery basket or risk a penalty based on an external scoring grid.

La Belle Classe Academy to achieve excellence

Since it was established in 2015, la Belle Classe Academy has been committed to promoting excellence in all aspects of yachting and has recently expanded its range of certificated courses by obtaining RYA (Royal Yachting Association) certification:  https://labelleclasseacademy.com/ .

Contacts Presse  :  Yacht Club de Monaco – Tél : (+377) 93 10 64 09 – E-mail :  [email protected]

Photos et videos:  https://yachtclubdemonaco.smugmug.com/Superyacht-Chef-Competition/Edition-2024

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At the Yacht Club de Monaco the 40th edition of the Primo Cup celebrates four sailing categories

MONACO, March 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 40th edition of the Primo Cup-Trophée UBS, the first major international event held under the presidency of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, comes to an end at the Yacht Club de Monaco. This anniversary edition has attracted 90 teams totalling 400 sailors divided across the J/70, Smeralda 888, Longtze Premier and Cape 31 classes. “It was a very special edition for us. After 40 years we’re still here welcoming competitors from all over Europe. Monaco is always the place to test new boats and new technology for the sailing and we’re very proud of it and that this happens under the umbrella of the ‘Monaco Capital of Advanced Yachting,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri giving also a little insight on what’s happening next at the Club. “I take this opportunity to mention the Yachting Day including the Explorer Awards. It’ll be here during the Ocean Week and we’ll have the pleasure to receive many Explorers. We’ll have 8 boats and around 200 guests, including a delegation of the Explorers Club from New York, around here for this opportunity which is great for the people that have passion for the sea and also innovation.”

Sticking to Primo Cup, in the J/70 class the final victory went to Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio and his monegasque team 'G-Spot', followed by ‘Jerry’ (that also won the amateur Corinthian category) and ‘Moonlight II’. “I am very happy. I always say we got very lucky but behind our luck there’s a lot of work we’ve been doing the whole winter. Primo Cup is one of the most important regattas organised by this Club so I’m very proud of our result. We won in 2021 and now we won again so we’re looking forward to the next one,” says di Lapigio. On the Perpetual Trophy, made by Buccellati, every year it is inscribed the name of the winner of the most represented class, which is J/70, to immortalise the sailing performance. Among the 32 names already engraved (representing eight nations) are Monegasques Claude Rodelato, Ludovico Fassitelli and Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio, who’s having his name written on it again this year. 

Moving on to the Smeralda 888 class, YCM’s Achille Onorato ‘Canard à l’Orange’   topped the ranking, followed by Giovanni Lombardi Stronati ‘Django’ and Paolo Rotelli ‘Black Star’. In Longtze Premier, it is the Swiss on  Shensu  who dominated being in complete control of their boat. In second place came ‘Wetfeet’ and in third ‘QI’. For the ‘debutant’ Cape 31 first place went to ‘Give me Five’. Second and third were gained by ‘Shotgun’ and ‘Solano II’. 

Organised with technical clothing supplier Slam and UBS, and the support of Monaco’s City Hall, over the years the event has established itself as a major one design meeting attracting big names in sailing. Since the eighties, it has also proved a testbed of innovation with Monaco bay becoming a reference for developing novel technologies and experimenting with new concepts at sea. 

Next sailing appointment at the Yacht Club de Monaco is the Women Leading and Sailing Trophy (15-17 march). 

For more information: Press Office LaPresse - [email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/83389a81-699f-471f-8397-bce9430c6c94

A video accompanying this announcement is available at  https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/334bb93e-97f4-4f8d-9abe-ad9009921a33

Billionaire fights to dock his boat on water behind his house. His 164-foot boat, that is.

The love of the water, and a mega-yacht to enjoy it, is putting one resident at odds with village of north palm beach leaders..

For some people, the ultimate Florida lifestyle is a waterfront house , a private dock and a boat parked next to it. But what if that boat is a mega-yacht , and the mega-yacht stretches 164 feet?

That's the conundrum facing the Village of North Palm Beach.

This tiny community in northern Palm Beach County, with only 13,000 full-time residents, has an identity so tied to the water that a ship's steering wheel is the village's emblem.

But it's that love of the water that is putting one resident at odds with village leaders.

For the past several years, homeowner Michael Bozutto has been battling the village for the right to park his 164-foot Westport, dubbed Honey, behind a home he owns at 932 Shore Drive.

The house, built in 1961, is a one-story, ranch-style property with three bedrooms on a half-acre lot. Bozzuto paid $840,247 for the house in 2014, according to Palm Beach County property records.

Lawsuit rooted in dispute over where to dock mega-yacht

What makes this plain house special is its location. It's on a rare corner bordered on the north and east by navigable waters that provide access to the Atlantic Ocean via the Lake Worth Inlet. The east-facing dock is large enough to accommodate Bozzuto's motor yacht.

Since Bozutto bought Honey for an undisclosed sum a decade ago, he mostly has parked it at the Old Port Cove Marina, near Tiger Woods' 155-foot showy mega-yacht, ironically dubbed Privacy.

More recently, Bozzuto has wanted to park Honey alongside his Shore Drive house, one of four houses he owns in the village. While Bozzuto keeps some personal property at the Shore Drive house, he lives at a house he owns at Harbour Isles Court.

Village officials warned Bozzuto he can't park Honey at 932 Shore Drive because boats can only be parked on docks behind houses that are occupied by the homeowner.

But village rules do not define the word "occupied." For instance, the rules do not state that occupied means the house is a residence where the owner lives. Village rules also contain no restrictions on the size of boats that can be kept at private docks.

After years of pushing back against what he believes are fuzzy rules, Bozzuto in March filed a lawsuit against the village.

More: Cannonsport Marina sells for $58.5 million in big deal for tiny Palm Beach Shores

He alleged the municipality is illegally depriving him of his property rights because nothing in the village code prevents him from mooring Honey at his house. He is asking a Palm Beach County Circuit Court judge to rule that he has a constitutional right to dock Honey there.

Gregory Coleman, Bozzuto's West Palm Beach attorney, said the village has plenty of waterfront homes with yachts parked behind them. But Coleman said the village is illegally blocking Bozzuto from docking Honey at his house because the village is bending to pressure from a handful of neighbors who think the boat is too big.

The selective enforcement is wrong, said Coleman, a former president of the Florida Bar.

"He's a very under-the-radar guy who doesn't cause anybody any problems," Coleman said of Bozzuto. "He pays his property taxes, and he wants to be left alone by the village of North Palm Beach. Unfortunately, they are singling Mike out."

Neither Leonard Rubin, the village's longtime attorney, nor Village Manager Chuck Huff responded to requests for comment.

Eric Stettin, a Fort Lauderdale-based attorney who is representing the village in the Bozzuto lawsuit, said he could not comment on pending litigation.

What good is a man's castle if he can't have a boat in his moat?

Coleman's lawsuit describes the conflict as a battle over property rights, but real estate and yachting experts say it's also a sign of the times.

As wealthy new residents pour into the county wanting all the perks of the Sunshine State, they want a boat to go along with their waterfront homes and golf club memberships. Some longtime residents fear Palm Beach County is turning into a playground for billionaires, to the detriment of everyday people who also want to live in sunshine and peace.

This conflict between Old Florida and new money is an ever-present tension, but even seasoned yacht brokers say they've never seen interest in luxury yachts quite as strong as it is now.

More: Illegal boat slips are popping near Palm Beach Gardens. Residents want regulators to act

"What we've seen in the marketplace right after COVID in the yachting industry, and especially the superyacht segment, is the most incredible growth ever seen in the history of yachting to date," said Shannon McCoy, a luxury yacht advisor and broker with Worth Avenue Yachts in Palm Beach.

"A lot of people are moving here with serious money," added Pascal Savoy, U.S. managing director of Camper & Nicholsons International yacht brokers in Fort Lauderdale.

While in the past Palm Beach County was not considered lively enough for some buyers, Savoy said the county's growing sophistication is putting it on the map in a way never seen before.

"It's a mini-Monaco for us," Savoy said.

Prices for mega-yachts can range from $18 million to $60 million, or many times that, for the largest and most decked-out mega-yachts, Savoy said.

While some yachts can be glitzy, a 164-foot Westport is considered a more low-profile boat, Savoy added.

Michael Bozzuto's interests: Houses, boats and philanthropy

Bozzuto is no newcomer to North Palm Beach. He's been a resident of the village for 20 years.

He is the billionaire owner of a family-owned supermarket wholesaler in Connecticut, and an investor and philanthropist who likes to collect houses and yachts, Coleman said.

In addition to the four North Palm Beach houses and several yachts he owns, Bozzuto in February paid a whopping $31.1 million for a house in the Town of Palm Beach Shores. The house, which has two docks, sits just north of the Palm Beach/Lake Worth Inlet.

Twin City Mall: North Palm clears way for redevelopment, taller buildings at landmark site

Coleman said there is plenty of room for other boaters to navigate the waterway when Honey is parked at the Shore Drive house in North Palm Beach. And while other people may not have as large a yacht, there are other sizeable yachts parked on docks behind other North Palm Beach homes, too, he added.

At a 2017 village council meeting, then-Mayor Darryl Aubrey commented on the issue, according to the complaint.

"When I didn't live here full time, I had a boat sitting in my dock, I was gone nine months of the year. I don't see how you can say that someone has to be in a residence year-round, seems to be some interpretation of occupant, there would be an enormous number of violations," Aubrey said.

Another member of the village council asked if the village had a definition now, the complaint said.

Rubin, the village attorney, replied: "No, we don't," according to the lawsuit.

Show me the money? Here it is: West Palm and Palm Beach rank in top 5 as cities with fastest growth in millionaires

Palm Beach County's waterways run deep, and they are popular

The yacht docking dispute is particularly timely, given the scarcity of dock space for boats of all sizes.

The most convenient place to park a boat is on the water behind a house, brokers say. But not every waterway or channel can accommodate the draft, or depth, of a mega-yacht.

However, the dock behind Bozzuto's Shore Drive house can.

Not only is the Westport not known for its deep hulls, but the waterway also is typical of northern Palm Beach County, which boasts deep water and easy access to the ocean via the Lake Worth Inlet, said Coleman, a lifelong boater.

"In Palm Beach County, they have deeper water, and it allows people to have larger yachts," Savoy agreed.

But not every waterway is deep enough for every boat.

McCoy said she specializes in helping advise potential yacht owners about the county's varied water depths before they buy a house, if they plan to dock their yacht behind it.

If yacht owners don't have a private dock, the other option is a marina. But marina space is hard to find, with many dock berths reserved for months in advance, McCoy said.

Despite the challenges of owning a boat and finding a place to dock it, yacht brokers say demand continues.

They see interest continuing from business executives moving here with their families as they relocate their companies to Palm Beach County. There's also a growing demand for yachts among female buyers, McCoy added.

They also see younger mega-yacht buyers, some even in their early 30s. This is in sharp contrast to the mostly older buyers in the past, Savoy said.

Palm Beach County may not be as go-go as Miami-Dade County when it comes to showy ships, but if interest continues, "it's coming," Savoy said. "You're going to attract bigger yachts."

Put another way: "No one needs a boat, but everyone needs a boat," McCoy said. "It's the ultimate lifestyle."

Alexandra Clough is a business writer and columnist at  The Palm Beach Post . You can reach her at  [email protected] . Twitter:  @acloughpbp .  Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

Nightlife City Guide

Moscow: nightlife and clubs

Moscow nightlife: despite the freezing weather, the Russian capital gets hot as the sun goes down. Between discos, luxury, exaggerated parties and beautiful Russian girls, the Moscow nightlife offers everything you need for memorable nights.

Moscow nightlife

The city of Moscow is definitely one of the most interesting European cities: the stories about underground lines and secret bunkers, the architecture of its buildings, from the Kremlin to St. Basil's Cathedral, up to the Soviet style of the Seven Sisters and modern skyscrapers, make the Russian capital is a unique and fascinating city.

One of the many things that Moscow is famous for is its wild nightlife . Moscow never sleeps. If there is anything true about Russians, it is that they love to party! Despite its freezing weather, Moscow turns out to be a hot city with endless fun, hip nightclubs, extreme luxury, beautiful Russian girls and lots of booze when night falls!

In fact, in recent years, the Russian capital has definitively abandoned the gray period of communism and its inhabitants have given vent to their desire for fun. As you might expect in a city of over 12 million people, Moscow has an amazing array of nightlife options and a huge choice for all tastes, whether you are a jazz fan, hardcore clubbers or just plain old alcoholics. The nightlife in Moscow winds through a multitude of alternative and transgressive nightclubs where the watchword is to meet new people and spend a night of unbridled and uninhibited fun . In addition to the numerous discos, in the Russian capital there are also 20 casinos open until dawn. For those who want a break of intriguing relaxation, in the city of Moscow there are also numerous massage salons .

Most of Moscow's nightclubs contain a restaurant, a bar area and a nightclub (the larger ones also have bowling alleys, billiards and a casino!). Perhaps because Moscow is such a large metropolis with very cold temperatures and taxis are so expensive that the owners of the bars and clubs want to offer their customers an all in one place for night entertainment.

So, in other words, Moscow is not the best city in the world for bar-crawling, especially bearing in mind that these multipurpose venues often charge entrance, but rather it is better to carefully choose the club where to spend the night.

For a quieter and more sober evening, head for an evening stroll along the Via Arbat or the Red Square to be fascinated by the lights of the city and the grandeur of the buildings, and admire the shops and street artists. An alternative to experience Moscow's nightlife is to spend an evening of lyric, ballet or opera. The Russian capital is home to around sixty theaters, the most famous of which is the world-renowned Bolshoi Theater (Theater Square, 1, Moscow).

Moscow nightlife districts

Moscow's nightlife is not concentrated in a single district but is scattered throughout the city. However, there are areas with a greater concentration of bars and nightclubs .

The Krasnij Oktjabr (Russian for "Red October") complex, a red brick building located on the island in the center of the Moscow River that once housed a chocolate factory, is dotted with numerous trendy nightclubs and offers spectacular views of the river and the symbolic places of the Russian capital. This is where the most glamorous parties in Moscow take place, there are numerous bars, restaurants and art galleries.

Other neighborhoods with good nightlife are the old manufactory area near the Russian government building which houses some bars, the area around the Trubnaya metro and around Kuznetsky Most , while the Kurskaya groups the clubs with electronic music. We can also mention the area of ​​the Patriarch's ponds, an area that is teeming with quiet bars.

Clubs and discos in Moscow

The crowd is very mixed. Students, young professionals, techno lovers, tourists all gather at Propaganda. Everyone comes to enjoy the music and have fun. It is one of the few clubs where the dancefloor dominates and there are hardly any tables, apart from a few that overlook the entire space. Propaganda is a restaurant until midnight. You can come earlier for dinner and stay for dancing. After midnight, the staff clears the tables from the dance floor and the whole place turns into a club. The place is different from the usual Moscow restaurant / club hybrids, however, because the atmosphere changes completely from "relaxed restaurant" to "underground electro club". Not to be missed.

There are more areas with different music. In the first area, expect a mix of traditional music and Russian pop songs. In the second, slightly larger area, there is live Russian pop music until 2am. After that it is mostly some kind of electronic music. The club is frequented by beautiful Russian girls around 18-25 years old, stunning students or models, and of course there is a good deal of young Russians, middle-aged men and foreign tourists trying their luck! Unlike many other nightclubs, the Icon is a pure nightclub and not a club turned into a restaurant. In any case, if you like to party in a big club and want to savor the typical Moscow nightlife , this is the perfect solution.

The crowd is the same as in other high-end Moscow clubs. Men are rarely under the age of 35 and are committed to giving the impression that money is not an issue. The women are amazing even by Moscow nightlife - if you want to meet Moscow's super models, this is the place! Ideal if you want to toast with the Moscow elite.

The club is located on two floors. The lower floor is mainly frequented by people hanging out at the bar and is good for conversation. The narrow stairs that perfectly fit the student atmosphere of the club take you to the main floor where the real party takes place, complete with a bedlam and girls dancing on the bar counter. In the summer months there is also an outdoor terrace. The place is always crowded and bouncers unnecessarily queue people - having a table or someone inside can be the key to skipping the queue. Otherwise, you might end up waiting half an hour or more. Come early or come back late if you want to avoid the crowds.

The crowd that frequents this club is quite mixed. People are less trendy and more underground. The place is suitable for afterhours, so most people arrive from 3am onwards.

Immediately upon entering, you will have the feeling that you have come to the local high school graduation prom instead of a real Moscow nightclub. There is no real interior design, but basically just a large hall with a stage and a bar. The crowd is almost entirely made up of teenagers and young people. Not many of the teens speak English, but it probably doesn't matter after all the alcohol. The music ranges from Russian pop and hip-hop to the most famous international hits. Perfect if you want to party and drink alcohol in one of the cheapest clubs in Moscow .

Here too, it's full of beautiful girls and it's also a great place to hit them off, as those who come here are notoriously more approachable. The advice is to be very firm with the girls who approach and to make your intentions clear. If you want to be 100% sure to get in, come at 2am when the club is still uncrowded.

Oblaka plays a mix of Russian and international pop music. Occasionally, as in many other clubs, there are performances by Russian pop singers. As is often the case in these types of clubs, the music and DJ are not the best but the guests don't seem to care.

Moscow's bars and pubs

The bar looks similar but still distinctly different than regular Moscow posh clubs. Most of the people who frequent this place are over 25, and you can find everything from young professionals to creative types to self-proclaimed models. Great if you want to see the "real Muscovites" celebrate without the overblown flashes of wealth. The proposed music is a strange mix of old and new commercial songs and Russian pop.

Downstairs is a large open space that opens its doors wide in the summer. The interior is rustic, yet elegant, with wooden furnishings and plenty of seating. The interior combined with Ugolek's popularity creates a crowded yet intimate atmosphere, especially on weekends. People come to chat, drink and eat. The upstairs bar has a more welcoming atmosphere. It is smaller, with soft lighting and armchairs to be able to relax. On weekends there is a DJ who mixes electronic music and transforms the bar into a relaxed place, ideal for the pre-party.

Map of clubs, pubs and bars in Moscow

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All is for sake of golf

Pestovo Golf club is built in accordance with international standards and it doesn’t have any analogs in Moscow and Moscow Region. The championship course is prepared for games at the highest level — it can host prestigious major tournaments. Professional coaches of the Golf academy can teach a beginner or give valuable advice to already experienced golfers and children Academy will develop the potential of the youngest golfers.

Membership in the private closed club «Pestovo» is a lifetime privilege opening multifaceted opportunities of sports and cultural life of modern golf community.

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Away from the bustle

Pestovo golf club is situated in a picturesque place on the shore of Pestovo reservoir. Here is no city noise but only fresh air, landscapes and cozy country houses. Its nature and developed infrastructure turn Pestovo into a quiet corner for family vacation.

Moscow region

City district Mitishi Village Rumiancevo, Nikolskaya st., private demesne 1, building 1

With care of your recreation

There are all the necessary things in our country complex for comfortable rest of your entire family. This is not only a championship golf course but it’s also a club house, restaurant, fitness club and yacht club. Qualified staff puts the life in the country club on a new level.

The restaurant «Pestovo»

Yacht club «Pestovo»

Winter Golf

One of the most memorable events of the winter season took place.

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Admiral Moscow

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Admiral Moscow, Guide & Review

Admiral nightclub is the best venue to head to while at Moscow , Russia. Admiral nightclub opens 7 days a week from 9:00pm to 5:00am. Decorated in classic style, rooms are air-conditioned, and feature satellite TV. Private bathrooms are fitted with a shower and free toiletries. Located in Gribki village, 7 km from Moscow city, this hotel comes with an outdoor seasonal swimming pool, steam bath and private beach area. It features a children’s playground and BBQ facilities.

Klub Admiral bus stop is a minute walk from Admiral Yacht Club. Vodniki Train Station is 2 km away. A shuttle to Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (9 km) is available on request.

Guests can enjoy Russian and European cuisine in the on-site restaurants, or relax at the bar.

We had a great rest in the club with friends! Incendiary and cheerful atmosphere, amazing youth music, variety of drinks! The most important thing for a great holiday!

Decent prices, soulful and enchanting atmosphere and incredibly professional and talented dancers. Bravo!

Complimentary amenities and services are available to make your travel more productive and relaxing.

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Paulo Ucha Longhin wins the Superyacht Chef Competition in Monaco

MONACO, April 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paulo Ucha Longhin (M/Y Hercules – 50m) is the winner of the 5th Superyacht Chef Competition. Organised as part of the collective approach 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting', the event was held at the Yacht Club de Monaco in partnership with Bluewater and under the aegis of YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre. This internationally renowned celebration of the art of fine cuisine at sea puts the spotlight on an essential aspect of yachting professions.  

Paulo Ucha Longhin has been cooking for 25 years and he started his journey on yachts after Covid. He is currently working on board the 50 metre long motor yacht Hercules. He won the competition with a main course of lobster and a dessert of strawberries and mascarpone cream. “I’m so happy. I was a little stressed but in a good way and as soon as I get to the kitchen I forget about everything and give my best while doing my job. Time of course is an issue, you have to manage but if you start the round being well prepared and organised, then you can really make it work”, said the Brazilian chef. Second place went to Ava Faulkner (M/Y Light Holic – 60m) and the bronze medal was assigned to Mateusz Mitka (M/Y Lady Britt – 63m).

Three tight rounds took the competitors to the grand finale of excellence. The 9 participants had to deal with a mystery basket and 'last-minute' ingredients chosen by the public. Chairing the 2024 edition was chef Glenn Viel. The three Michelin star chef promotes eco-responsible cuisine at the Oustau de Baumanière gourmet restaurant. Passionate about local products, Viel is renowned for combining his Breton roots with Provencal culinary traditions and stands out for his eco-responsible cuisine. Alongside Viel on the jury, the finalist of ‘Objectif Top Chef’ Victoria Vallenilla: “I think they have to look for the creativity of the chef because they don’t have much time to create a dish and it’s much easier when you have time to try things and think about it. If you also think about the technicity they need to have, I'm stressed for them. I think the public has to see the ability to work on their stress and with a very short time of thinking. They see these new kitchens, they don’t know where are things. It has to be quite difficult and also working under pressure with so many people looking at them, it is already a proof of strength”, said Vallenilla.

As tradition, the contestants only found out what was in their basket of mystery ingredients five minutes before they got behind their stoves. During the competition the audience added a missing ingredient to the basket and then voted for the best culinary presentation adding another interactive dimension to this prestigious competition. Winner of the previous edition, Marco Tognon (M/Y Planet – 72m) also gave his contribution on the quality of the dishes presented during the day. At the jury table there was also chef Danny Davies, host of ‘Behind the Line with Chef Danny Davies’ with over 25 years of experience on private yachts. Chef Julien Roucheteau, a former student of the Ferrandi School in Paris, two time Michelin star and Chef Fred Ramos, a disciple of the renowned chef Jacques Maximin completed the jury line up.

This year again the nine superyacht chefs selected to take part had to comply with an anti-waste criterium under the watchful eye of chef Duncan Biggs, requiring contestants to use every ingredient in the mystery basket or risk a penalty from an external scoring grid. “Especially with the global warming issue and the cost of the ingredients going up, it’s really important to have a keep a close eye on the wasting aspect of cooking. I know that it can be difficult, as chefs usually work in very fast-paced environments, but it’s fundamental to consider the matter and be prepared”, said Biggs. This initiative is part of the CSR policy of the Yacht Club de Monaco.

Participating in this fifth edition were: Paulo Ucha Longhin (M/Y Hercules – 50m), Joelyanne Lefaucheur (M/Y Artemis – 33m), Mateusz Mitka (M/Y Lady Britt – 63m), Margot Laurent (M/Y Leonardo III – 43m), Enzo Di Garbo (M/Y L.A.U.L. – 39m), Giacomo Seregni (M/Y Severin’s – 55m), Jérémie Gruson (M/Y Victoria del mar – 50m) and Ava Faulkner (M/Y Light Holic – 60m).

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - [email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e2812aae-6b6d-4c6f-8f21-0a42c8d35f94

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0bea4faf-da97-4514-8823-90c3c763d1a1