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Day: 12 February 2020

Aqua is still on the market

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/02/2020

We take a closer look at the superyacht concept that is making headlines across the globe: the hydrogen-powered Aqua.
An enormous hydrogen-powered superyacht that was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show last year has not been sold to Bill Gates, despite widespread media reports to the contrary.
Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design and Lateral Naval Architects made a splash during the 2019 MYS when they introduced Aqua, their incredibly futuristic 112-metre-long liquid hydrogen-powered superyacht concept.

Various international media reported this week that billionaire co-founder of Microsoft Bill Gates has ordered the vessel, valued at over €550 million, but Sinot has since released a statement denying the order.
“Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design wants to make the following clear: the hydrogen concept Aqua is not linked to Mr. Gates (or his representatives) in any form or matter; Sino has no business relationship with Mr. Gates; and Aqua is a concept under development and has not been sold to Mr. Gates,” reads the statement.

Observatory in the owner’s pavilion

In reality, this incredible vessel is still just a concept under development and is meant to inspire a greener future for superyachts. The company says it continues to invite “any visionary client to show their interest”.
The model relies on hydrogen-electric systems instead of diesel engines, and will be equipped with its very own waterfall, helipad, infinity pool, spa and gym.

The flowing exterior lines of Aqua are inspired by ocean swells, lines that “accentuate the freedom of life on the water and blend into their environment with complete harmony with nature,” according to its designer.
Hydro massage

The futuristic design extends to the interior, with moon-shaped portals surrounding the central lobby, and a gymnasium which opens to reveal the ocean’s surface at water level, creating the perception of exercising and relaxing on an island at sea.
Situated at Aqua’s core is a spectacular circular staircase winding down from the top deck to the lower deck and an observatory located at the bow, offering endless views from the best position on board, with floor to ceiling windows.

“We consider Aqua to be a major step forward in the application of new technologies aboard a superyacht, while at the same time showcasing an integrated and highly poetic design approach: a profound connection with the water in its cascading decks and large swim platform, large floor-to-ceiling band windows connecting interior spaces with exterior decks and the scenic sea views, and a minimalist Japanese beach-style interior providing living spaces in perfect balance with the water,” said Sander Sinot.

 
Photos courtesy: Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design 
 

New police unit to improve quality of life

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/02/2020

A new police unit has been introduced in Monaco and is tasked with easing traffic, controlling uncivil behaviour and fighting noise pollution.
The Living Environment Preservation Unit (UPCV) has been operating since 3rd February but was unveiled to the press on Tuesday 11th February by Minister of the Interior Patrice Cellario. The unit is composed of 10 police officers – seven men and three women – under the command of a senior officer.
The officers are easily recognisable in their light blue vests emblazoned with ‘Police’ and ‘Unité de Préservation du Cadre de Vie’ on the back.
The UPCV is attached to the Proximity and Security Section (SPS) and the officers selected have been trained in hand traffic practices. They are also equipped with electric bicycles “to ensure optimal responsiveness and reduce travel times”, according to the government.
The main mission of the UPCV is to manage traffic flow, particularly at peak times when they can be dispatched quickly at key sites.
They will also be responsible for controlling uncivil behaviour at hotspots throughout the Principality and for combating noise pollution. The officers will be equipped with sound level meters and will focus on public establishments as well as public and private construction sites. However, as the unit is only operational from 7.30am to 7.30pm, regular police officers will be responsible for enforcing noise levels in the evenings.
The UPCV will also assist in the fight against illegal dumping of waste from individuals or companies who fail to comply with regulations. This will be extended to things like dog excrement and cigarette butts, in an effort to maintain quality of life in Monaco. Fines of €37.50 will be issued, for example, to people who do not have their dogs on a lead.
 
 

Prince receives lifetime achievement award

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/02/2020

Prince Albert II of Monaco has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award presented by American actress Uma Thurman, in recognition of his commitment to the preservation of the Ocean, biodiversity and the fight against climate change. 
The award was presented on 6th February at the Hollywood for the Global Ocean Gala 2020, attended by numerous celebrities.
“Your Highness, we are honoured to present you this award in recognition of your work as an environmental leader and your steadfast commitment to protecting the world’s Ocean,” said Uma Thurman. “As a head of state, you have aligned leadership of your country with the preservation of our planet. (…) The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, which you established in 2006, is regarded worldwide as a flagship project for environmental protection. All of your life, your name and your actions have been an integral part of the battle to protect the environment.”
The gala dinner, held in a private property in Beverly Hills, gathered 250 privileged philanthropists who wanted to commit to the protection of the Ocean and support the projects led by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.
“I am deeply honoured to be presented with this lifetime achievement award and be welcomed at this outstanding event,” said H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco in accepting the prize, specially created by Chopard. “This determination to act and the ambition to change the world with knowledge and intelligence are the most valuable assets we have today.”
Meanwhile, film icon Sharon Stone presented the ‘Grand Earth Pledge’, which brings together philanthropists wishing to act alongside the Sovereign Prince.

Sharon Stone speaking at the awards, courtesy Getty Images for the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation

“This event is so important to me because I have three sons and I’m looking out for their future,” said Sharon Stone. “I have the opportunity to engage people to be part of this effort and create a team who will continue to work together and care about this as a group.”
The evening, presented by Maison Chopard and Milutin Gatsby, included private concerts by Chris Isaak and Macy Gray.
More than 535 projects have already been supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, in the three priority geographical regions of the Mediterranean Basin, the Polar Regions and the Least Developed Countries, which are strongly impacted by the effects of climate change, the loss of biodiversity and threats to water resources.
 
 

Rolex Masters 2020 unveiled

by: Stephanie Horsman
12/02/2020

A new and improved venue and firm commitments from the world’s top players points to an exciting time at the 114th edition of the Rolex Masters Tennis Tournament coming in April.
Tournament Director Zeljko Franulovic on Tuesday revealed plans for the 2020 Rolex Masters, which takes place from 11th to 14th April 2020 on the famous clay courts of the Monte-Carlo Country Club.
Amongst some of the highlights for this year are the opening of a new bar in place of the Rolex Boutique on the terraces of the country club, as well as a new restaurant, player’s lounge and interview room. Famed American artist Lee Wybranski, known for being a staple of the golf art world, will be designing the event poster this year.
It was also announced that the renovations made at the site last year did not go unnoticed by the ATP. The ‘Award of Excellence for most improved venue in 2019’ was awarded for the vast improvements made for both spectators and players like.
Novic Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, ranked numbers one and two in the world respectively, are pre-registered, as are a growing list of world-class players. The final list will be announced on the Rolex Masters website from 19th of March.
Defending champ Fabio Fognini will kick-off the series in a live broadcast taking place on the terraces of the Thermes Marin de Monte-Carlo on 10th April at 6:30pm.
Finally, the tournament welcomes Chris Kermode, former CEO of the ATP World Tour, to the organising team of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters as a “privileged consultant.”
Organised by the Monaco Society for the Operation of the Tennis Tournament (SMETT), the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters is the first European tournament in the category of ATP Masters 1000.
 
 

The unstoppable Roca Team

by: Stephanie Horsman
12/02/2020

Roca Team has nabbed another victory at home in front of more than 200 fans, this time against Châlons-Reims Champagne Basketball on Tuesday night.
As Monaco Basketball plays to win, and win they do! In a very physical game against Châlons-Reims which saw both Eric Buckner and Will Yeguete with two fouls before the end of the first quarter, the Roca Team kept their offence as aggressive as their defence, though the game was evenly matched.
Early in the 2nd quarter, Buckner committed a third foul and was benched, but not before he helped put the team up by 30-24. Châlons-Reims played a very inside game, making it difficult for Monaco to keep too far ahead in the scoring, and by halftime, it was a tie at 43-43.
After play resumed, CCRB went on the attack, putting them four points up. It was at this critical moment that Norris Cole landed a three-point missile. This time the Roca Team wings and they made a huge push, scoring nine points in quick succession making it 52-47 in the 24th minute. Two minutes later Norris Cole made the difference by going for a superb “coast to coast” widening the gap to 58-49.
CCRB weren’t giving up, though. By the end of the third quarter, the lead shrunk to 64-60. It was now that Norris Cole went for it, and in just 10 minutes, scored an incredible 14 points. The Roca Team had the game all but sewn up, but this didn’t stop Dee Bost from landing two dazzling layups, ending the game with Monaco’s 28th straight win at home.
The final score was 88-74. Roca Team plays again on Valentine’s Day against Nanterre.
 
 

Primo Cup Trophée Credit Suisse results

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/02/2020

Always traditional, whilst still keeping things fresh with new additions, the Primo Cup Trophée Credit Suisse is one of the racing seasons most anticipated events. This year’s saw two new classes added to the event, and it was exciting endings all around. 
The stats tell the story of success. A total of 450 sailors from 20 different countries racing on 100 boats in six different classes participated in this year’s Primo Cup. The regatta lived up to its reputation, with clothing from Slam awarded to the top three in each class.
The weather cooperated brilliantly. With plentiful sunshine, temperatures a pleasant 14ºC and winds ranging from 5-15 knots on calms seas, the crews will no doubt remember this regatta with fond memories.
Additionally, new classes were added to the race as announced by Yacht Club of Monaco General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri. “Alongside loyal regulars we welcomed two classes new to the event, L30 and Onefly. Every year, the Primo kicks off the season in the Mediterranean and we always aim for something new.”
The final rankings from each class are as follows:
J/70 :
1st: Mikhail Sheremetev (Elf) – RUS: 12 points
2nd: Nelson Mettraux (CER APROTEC-Ville de Genève) – SUI: 26 points
3rd: Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio (G-Spottino) – MON: 32 points
J/70 Corinthian:
1st: Charles Thompson (Brutus– GBR: 60 points
2nd: Cesare Gabasio (Tinnj70) – MON: 60 points
3rd: Stefano Roberti (Piccinina) – MON: 67 points
Smeralda 888 :
1st: Timofey Sukhotin (Beda) – MON: 8 points
2nd: Francesco Vauban (Botta Dritta) – MON: 10 points
3rd: Paolo Rotelli (Black Star) – MON: 14 points
Longtze Premier :
1st: Jarmo Wieland (Shensu) – SUI: 5 points
2nd: Franck Beat (Qi) – SUI: 7 points
3rd: Steffen Schneider (Outsider) – SUI: 13 points
L30 :
1st: Jonas Gerckens (Jonas Gerckens) – BEL: 9 points
2nd: Anastasia Kolesnichenko (Humphreys Conrad) – GBR: 10 points
3rd: Denis Lankin (Maria Naboka) – MON: 11 points
Melges 20 :
1st: Valentin Zavadnikov (Oleg Reps) – MON: 12 points
2nd: Alexander Mikhaylik (Alex Team) – RUS: 13 points
3rd: Anatoly Karachinsky (Path) – MON: 14 points
Onefly :
1st: Matisse Pacaud – FRA: 8 points
2nd: Nicolas Berenger – FRA: 15 points
3rd: Eliot Bourgeois – FRA: 15 points
 
Photo: J/70 courtesy Yacht Club of Monaco