24 ° C
Profile

Day: 19 May 2025

Cluster Yachting Monaco’s Spring Pop-Up puts sustainability at the helm

by: Cassandra Tanti
19/05/2025

Monaco’s yachting industry came together on Wednesday 15th May for the annual Spring Pop-Up hosted by Cluster Yachting Monaco at the Yacht Club de Monaco, where sustainability, innovation, and practical solutions took centre stage. With Monaco’s marina as the backdrop, the event offered a snapshot of the sector’s evolving priorities — from smarter refits to digital diagnostics — and underscored a collective ambition to steer yachting towards a greener future.

The event drew a broad spectrum of the industry’s key players, including owners, designers, engineers and brokers, as well as the Cluster’s newly appointed Vice-Presidents: Arthur Bohr of Monaco Marine and Olivier Lavagna of SEPM. Their presence signalled renewed momentum for industry-wide cooperation.

Learning from the wider maritime world

The day opened with a roundtable led by Vincent Huens de Brouwer, focusing on innovations from the cruise and commercial shipping sectors. Vianney Vautier of Orient Express shared details of the 220-metre sailing yacht Corinthian, calling it “the largest in the world for premium cruises” and noting its use of 6,000 sensors to optimise every voyage. “The best fuel is one that doesn’t combust,” he said, highlighting the ship’s rigid sails and intelligent energy systems.

Victor Gibon of JIFMAR GROUP detailed the Canopée, a hybrid cargo ship built to carry Ariane 6 rocket parts. It’s already seen fuel reductions of up to 50%, and even 100% in sail-only mode. Meanwhile, Victor Collazos of V.ERDE reminded the audience that regulation is coming fast: “Yachting may only account for 0.3% of global maritime emissions, but it won’t escape scrutiny. Europe now imposes an energy rating system from A to E.”

What owners want

In a candid second panel moderated by renowned designer Espen Øino, yacht owners shared real-world perspectives. For Laurent Reiss (M/Y Asteria), family adventure was central to his design priorities. “We wanted to explore the planet and show our children the world,” he said, stressing the need for autonomy and robustness at sea.

Frank Binder (M/Y XEIA) criticised overly standardised designs, while Heigo Paartalu of YachtWay emphasised the need for modular spaces and introduced his tech platform for personalising yacht searches and virtual tours. But all agreed on a key concern: the difficulty in retaining crew. “The rotation system sounds great in theory, but in reality, it works more for the crew than the owner,” said Reiss.

Small changes, big impact

The third and final discussion, led by David Seal, zoomed in on the ageing global fleet and the immediate steps that can make a difference. With 70% of yachts now over a decade old, Arthur Bohr of Monaco Marine argued that each yacht requires a custom sustainability plan. Examples included replacing 520 halogen bulbs with LEDs on a 50m yacht — a move that saves up to 57,000 litres of fuel annually.

Natalie Quévert of SEA Index highlighted the importance of measurement in driving change. “Our CO2 certification is a vital benchmark. Surprisingly, some well-balanced older yachts outperform newer hybrids in energy scores.” The message was clear: improvement starts with data.

Attitudes are also shifting. Bohr recalled an owner who was confronted by his grandchildren refusing to board due to environmental concerns. “That moment was a turning point,” he said.

A market in transition

Beyond the roundtables, 16 yachts from 12 to 52 metres were on display in the YCM Marina, presented by Cluster members including Edmiston, Espen Øino, Ocean Independence, Sanlorenzo, Azimut Yachts and BehneMar. While not all featured green innovations, the lineup reflected growing market demand for sustainable design and performance.

With nearly 100 member businesses, Cluster Yachting Monaco is positioning itself as a driver of responsible innovation. In 2022, yachting represented €567 million in revenue for the Principality — 3% of the total — and supported over 1,400 onshore jobs.

Monaco Life is produced by multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo provided

Prince Albert II brings Monaco’s voice to European summit in Tirana

by: Cassandra Tanti
19/05/2025

In the Albanian capital of Tirana on Friday 16th May, Prince Albert II joined dozens of European leaders for the sixth European Political Community (EPC) Summit, lending Monaco’s voice to high-stakes discussions on energy, security, and competitiveness.

The meeting brought together heads of state and government from across the continent — both EU and non-EU — as well as senior officials from major European institutions, NATO, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE. Despite its informal format, the EPC is fast becoming one of Europe’s most significant political gatherings, offering a rare forum for unity in an increasingly fragmented world.

At a roundtable focused on Competitiveness, Energy and Connectivity, Prince Albert called for deeper multilateral cooperation and faster action on the energy transition. He stressed the urgent need for Europe to reduce its dependence on external energy sources and spotlighted Monaco’s own investments in renewable energy — a small state with big ambitions when it comes to sustainability.

“The challenges we face — whether environmental, economic, or geopolitical — demand shared solutions,” the Prince said, according to sources present. “And Monaco is committed to being part of those solutions.”

On the sidelines, Prince Albert met with several top European officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament; and António Costa, President of the European Council. The conversations touched on Monaco-EU relations and pressing global issues, including climate and ocean preservation.

In his meeting with Ms. von der Leyen, the Prince highlighted Monaco’s hosting of the upcoming Blue Economy and Finance Forum, taking place on 7th and 8th June. The event is part of the third United Nations Ocean Conference and aligns with the Principality’s leading role in marine conservation.

In a rare moment of direct diplomacy, Prince Albert also spoke briefly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reaffirming Monaco’s continued support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.

He later held a bilateral meeting with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, congratulating him on his recent re-election and discussing regional cooperation in the Mediterranean. Rama’s fourth consecutive mandate is widely seen as a key step in Albania’s path toward EU accession — a journey Monaco has closely observed as a non-EU microstate with strong European ties.

The EPC Summit in Tirana may not have made major headlines, but for Monaco, it was an important reminder that even the smallest nations have a voice at Europe’s biggest tables — and are expected to use it.

Monaco Life is produced by multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photos credit: Michael Alesi / Palais princier

Jacquemus brings signature style to Monte-Carlo Beach in chic summer collaboration

by: Cassandra Tanti
19/05/2025

Monte-Carlo Beach has welcomed one of fashion’s most influential names this summer as Jacquemus unveils a striking seasonal takeover in partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. From now until the 7th of October, the iconic seaside club is reimagined through the sun-drenched, stylish lens of the French fashion house.

The collaboration has transformed the legendary pier, the Pool Café, and two new on-site boutiques into a tribute to the brand’s signature aesthetic. Banana yellow sunbeds, coconut milk and black striped parasols, and soft cushions inspired by Jacquemus’ La Croisière collection now bring playful elegance to Monaco’s Mediterranean shore.

This partnership marks a fresh chapter in the ongoing renewal of Monte-Carlo Beach, following recent upgrades to Le Deck, the pool area, and the launch of new padel courts. The addition of Jacquemus’ universe—marked by Southern light, artistic flair, and modern Provencal identity—deepens the site’s commitment to Riviera chic while reinforcing its timeless appeal.

Inside the two boutiques, guests are greeted by a space that feels as personal as the designer’s own home. Artworks reminiscent of Matisse and Renoir hang on the walls, while curated furnishings and literary touches evoke the warmth and charm of Provence. The boutiques offer a full immersion into the world of Jacquemus, in what is the brand’s exclusive retail experience in the Principality.

Known for its boundary-pushing fashion shows and immersive storytelling, Jacquemus has become synonymous with creative expression in extraordinary locations. This Monte-Carlo Beach collaboration brings that spirit to life once more, inviting guests to lounge, dine and shop in a setting where high fashion and seaside serenity blend seamlessly.

See also: 

Fresh, timeless, unforgettable: The new Le Deck at Monte-Carlo Beach is an instant success

Monaco Life is produced by multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Save the Rainforest Gala unites conservation leaders at glamorous Monaco event

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
19/05/2025

The Fairmont Monte Carlo’s Salle d’Or Ballroom transformed into a nexus of environmental advocacy on Saturday night as Borneo Wildfire Preservation hosted its Save the Rainforest Charity Gala, raising over €16,100 for critical conservation efforts across three continents. 

Distinguished guests including Prince Charles Philippe d’Orleans and Princess Naiomi d’Orleans joined conservation leaders, entertainment figures and passionate supporters for an evening combining Monaco glamour with urgent environmental purpose. 

Katerina Pirelli-Zucchetta, Founder and President of Borneo Wildlife Preservation, opened the evening with a compelling address on the dangerous situation endangered Bornean pygmy elephants and the rainforests of Sabah are facing.

“Human development and wildlife conservation must go hand in hand,” Pirelli-Zucchetta told attendees, highlighting the challenges posed by the Pan Borneo Highway—a 2,000-mile infrastructure project fragmenting critical habitats. “We’re actively working with the Sabah Wildlife Department and state government to mitigate these situations.”

The gala featured addresses from international conservation leaders, each highlighting different aspects of the global wildlife crisis.

Shannon Elizabeth, actress and founder of the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation, delivered one of the evening’s most powerful messages. “What if I told you the greatest crimes in our world today aren’t just against people, but against the planet itself? And what if I told you they’re one and the same?” Elizabeth asked the audience.

She detailed her foundation’s work with the Khusela Endangered Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa, born from the story of Munu, a blind black rhino. “Blinded in territorial fights and found wandering in circles, Munu couldn’t survive on his own, and letting him die was never an option,” Elizabeth explained.

The sanctuary has since expanded to include a wildlife hospital, quarantine and release facilities for rhinos, and deployment of cutting-edge anti-poaching technologies within a conservation corridor that will eventually span over 1,000,000 hectares.

“Conservation isn’t just about animals or land, it starts with people,” Elizabeth explained. “Communities should not just be included in conservation, they must lead it.”

Chris DeRose also took the stage to highlight the critical situation at Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park now threatened by conflict. “Today, there are 23 rebel groups moving in,” DeRose reported. “I personally spoke to Anthony, the head of the airway unit, and he expressed how difficult it is now with this war to protect the animals.”

Despite these challenges, DeRose noted significant progress: “In 2018, there were only 300 gorillas left and they were listed as critically endangered. Today, they’re listed as endangered and there’s more than 1,000 gorillas.”

Chris DeRose, founder of Last Chance for Animals, was recognised for his decades fighting animal cruelty. “This includes horses, dogs, sheep, gorillas, elephants, rhinos, and any other animal that was ever documented to be in this world,” Van Der Was said, encouraging attendees to support the foundation’s work.

The fashion show

Sustainable fashion showcase dazzles attendees

Following a three-course gourmet dinner, teenage designers from global youth movement Junk Kouture took center stage with a remarkable sustainable fashion showcase. Creatives aged 12 to 19 presented striking garments made entirely from recycled materials including Nespresso capsules, bottle caps, and glass.

The evening’s culinary offerings matched the event’s environmental ethos while celebrating regional flavours. Guests enjoyed carpaccio de gamberoni with Menton lemon and Timut pepper, followed by Mediterranean Sea bass with local zucchini and its blossom in a saffron-infused jus. The meal concluded with Carros strawberries with marjoram, complemented by Australian wines throughout the evening.

The charity auction proved a highlight of the evening, raising €16,100 for conservation projects. All proceeds will directly benefit initiatives including the Borneo Elephant Sanctuary, where work focuses on mitigating human-wildlife conflict related to the Pan Borneo Highway; Virunga National Park in Congo, supporting ranger programs and protection efforts; and the Khusela Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa, advancing rhino conservation.

As the formal program concluded, guests danced into the night, celebrating the connections made and commitments to action for the world’s most threatened ecosystems.

“We’re not here tonight to admire the problem. We’re here to change the outcome,” Elizabeth reminded attendees. “The time is now. The choice is ours.”

See more in Kyriaki Topalidou’s video reel below…

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Leclerc battles to sixth in dramatic Imola race as Ferrari shows strong pace

by: Cassandra Tanti
19/05/2025

Charles Leclerc secured sixth place in a thrilling Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, capping off a strong recovery drive for Scuderia Ferrari HP at Imola. Starting from 11th after a disappointing qualifying, the Monegasque fought through the midfield and brought home vital points in front of the passionate Italian fans.

Ferrari split strategies for the race, placing Leclerc on Mediums and Lewis Hamilton—starting 12th—on the Hard compound. Leclerc made early gains, passing Isack Hadjar and Pierre Gasly, before an early pit stop on lap 10 set him up for a clean-air undercut. He climbed to eighth with strong pace, but a mistimed Virtual Safety Car later handed the advantage to Hamilton, who pitted and emerged in a stronger position on fresher tyres.

The closing stages saw Leclerc defending hard against Williams’ Alex Albon, with the pair colliding at the chicane. Hamilton took advantage of the moment to pass both, eventually finishing fourth. Leclerc was later asked to concede position to Albon to avoid a potential penalty after the stewards launched an investigation.

“It just didn’t align today,” Leclerc admitted. “The timing of the VSC and Safety Car didn’t help, but I don’t regret the strategy. P6 isn’t the target, but we showed good race pace again.”

Max Verstappen claimed victory ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, but Ferrari left Imola encouraged by its Sunday performance—despite a continued gap in one-lap pace. The team now heads to Monaco, where Leclerc hopes to finally score a breakthrough result at home.

Monaco Life is produced by multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo credit: Scuderia Ferrari Media Centre

Princess Stephanie presides over Carabiniers Insignia Ceremony for ‘Némorin Lignon’ recruits 

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
19/05/2025

Princess Stephanie of Monaco, Godmother of the Prince’s Carabiniers Corps, has presented official Corps insignia to eight trainees Carabiniers from the ‘Némorin Lignon’ recruitment class during a formal military ceremony held on May 15th.

The event took place on the helicopter landing area of the Moneghetti Barracks, attended by Colonel Tony Varo, Superior Commander of the Public Force, Lieutenant-Colonel Maxime Yvrard, Head of the Fire Brigade Corps, and families of the new recruits.

The ceremony began with a welcome from Lieutenant-Colonel Martial Pied, Head of Corps, followed by a review of the troops. The Company Flag was then presented to the future Carabiniers before Princess Stephanie officially conferred the insignia, which had been blessed by Abbot Christian Venard, Chaplain of the Public Force.

The Monaco national anthem, performed by the Prince’s Carabiniers Orchestra alongside all military personnel present, brought the ceremony to a close. 

The young recruits had previously sworn their oath to Prince Albert II and His Family on 12th May 2025, committing to serve with ‘Honour, Loyalty and Devotion’ in accordance with the Corps’ motto. They formally take up their duties on 19th May.

Némorin Lignon, for whom the recruitment class is named, was born in Pouzolles in the Hérault region of France. At 21 years of age, he was incorporated into the 25th military medical section in Tunis on 24th October 1906, where he served until October 1908 before joining the active reserve.

He became part of the Carabiniers Corps on 17th July 1912, assigned service number 331, and was mobilised on 1st August 1914. After serving with the 96th Colonial Infantry Regiment, he joined the 44th Infantry Regiment on 5th April 1916.

On 13th April 1916, his regiment was redeployed to the Damloup sector near Verdun. Under bombardment of unprecedented intensity, the unit suffered heavy casualties. Among the victims was Némorin Lignon, who died on 26th April 1916 from an illness contracted at the front. He was officially recognised as having ‘Died for France.’

Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.