Monaco’s harbour is set to become a floating museum next month as 187 classic and vintage boats converge for the 17th edition of Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe, one of the world’s most prestigious gatherings of historic vessels.
The invitation-only event, first launched in 1994 and organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco under the high patronage of Prince Albert II, takes place from 10th to 13th September with 52 sailing yachts, 53 powerboats, 45 motorboats, 15 motor yachts up to 80 metres in length, and 22 Dinghy 12′ vessels.
Vessels that stand out
Among the standout vessels is Partridge, celebrating its 140 anniversary after being rescued from the River Blackwater mud in 1979 and restored over 17 years. The sailing fleet includes the legendary 65-metre Creole (1927) and Zaca (1929), which served as Errol Flynn’s floating home and appeared in Orson Welles’ ‘The Lady from Shanghai’.
Invader (1905) once hosted Hollywood stars and Douglas Fairbanks and Charlie Chaplin, while Manitou (1937) earned the nickname ‘Floating White House’ for its use by the President John F. Kennedy.
The motor yacht category is led by the 79-metre Delphine (1921) and the 45-metre Kalizma (1906), famously gifted by Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor after her Oscar win and now knows as the ‘Orient Express of the seas’.
Competitions and public access
Vessels will be judged by a panel chaired by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, with the Elegance Contest judged by Allegra Gucci. The popular Chefs Competition returns, challenging crews to create gourmet dishes using organic ingredients from a mystery box.
The quays and Exhibitors’ Village will be open to the public for free from 10-13 September, 10am to 7pm. Visitors can explore the historic vessels up close, browse works by marine painters and photographers, discover traditional maritime craftsmen at work, and shop at the YCM Official Boutique.
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Main photo credit: YCM Studio Borlenghi