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Day: 29 September 2025

Baglietto’s Andala makes Monaco debut following summer launch

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
29/09/2025

Italian yacht builder Baglietto has brought its latest delivery, the 41-metre motor yacht Andala, to the Monaco Yacht Show, marking the eighth hull in the shipyard’s successful DOM 133 series. 

The yacht was launched earlier this year as part of what Fabio Ermetto, Baglietto’s Chief Commercial Officer, describes as a truly amazing spring for the company which has averaged one launch per month in 2025.

The spectacular super yacht welcomed Monaco Life on board during the Monaco Yacht Show for an exclusive interview with the CCO.

“The DOM 133. 41 metre yacht is one of the most successful series of semi-custom series that we have,” Ermetto told Monaco Life. “The boat was delivered a few months ago and, after a long summer season, we are pleased to have her here at the Monaco Yacht Show.”

The yacht features exterior design by Stefano Vafiadis, who is responsible for the entire DOM line, while interiors were created by Giorgio Cassetta, specifically appointed by the owner who has a clear vision for the yacht’s aesthetic.

“It was specifically appointed by the client who had a clear idea in mind of what kind of interior he wanted, and you can see the results. We are very satisfied about the final results,” said Ermetto.

Despite being part of a semi-custom series, Andala demonstrates Baglietto’s flexibility in delivering high levels of customisation. The yacht accommodates up to 10 guests across five staterooms, with crew quarters for nine staff members.

Twin Caterpillar engines provide a top speed of 17 knots and cruising speed of 15 knots.

Strategic showcase

“The Monaco Yacht Show is probably the best time and the best place worldwide to show our craftsmanship, quality, our new design models and meet the clientele,” explained Ermetto, outlining the shipyard’s strategy in bringing recent deliveries to the show.

The private-owned yacht serves as a showcase for Baglietto’s approach as what Ermetto calls “a boutique shipyard”, building five to six yachts annually with a maximum length of 65 to 70 metres.

Looking ahead, Baglietto continues to invest significantly in sustainable propulsion systems. “We have been pioneering the hybrid systems. We developed and built the first hybrid Lloyd certified boat 10 years ago,” Ermetto explained. “So, we have always invested in this direction.”

Andala docked at Port Herculis during the Monaco Yacht Show, photo by Monaco Life.

The shipyard has now moved beyond hybrid technology, installing a hydrogen plant at its facility to produce electricity from seawater in a completely sustainable way, powered entirely by photovoltaic panels.

“We are producing electricity out of sea water in a completely sustainable way,” Ermetto said, explaining that the only power required for the system comes from solar panels installed at the facility.

The system has been operating for several months and is being developed for implementation on a 60-metre yacht from 2027. “We are really looking forward for the first hydrogen boat,” Ermetto concluded

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Prince Albert II joins Schwarzenegger and Blair for “superpower” climate talks

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/09/2025

Prince Albert II of Monaco joined Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tony Blair, and other international leaders for a high-level climate roundtable in New York on 24th September, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

The meeting, hosted at the Whitby Hotel, brought together key figures from government, business, and philanthropy to focus on how climate “superpowers” — including nature, technology, and non-state actors — can be mobilised more effectively. Organised by the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, the roundtable also featured representatives from the Minderoo Foundation, founded by Australian philanthropist Andrew Forrest.

“Nature is our most powerful ally”

In his address, Prince Albert II spoke passionately about the need to reframe the climate crisis not as an abstract threat, but as a tangible opportunity for innovation and collective progress.

“Nature is our most powerful ally in the fight against climate change,” said the Prince. “Oceans, forests and wetlands capture carbon, cool the planet and protect our coastlines. But nature cannot defend itself alone — it depends on all of us: communities, institutions and decision-makers.”

Prince Albert II shaking hands with Arnold Schwarzenegger, in the presence of Tony Blair, photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Prince’s Palace

He stressed the importance of coordination across sectors, noting that “no single actor can succeed alone”. Governments, private investors, civil society and philanthropic organisations all have a role to play, he said, highlighting the power of blended finance and community-led initiatives.

Monaco’s model of marine leadership

Prince Albert II also shared concrete examples of Monaco’s leadership in climate action, particularly through his foundation’s marine initiatives.

“In Monaco, we’ve launched the ReOcean Fund to support innovators tackling plastic pollution, restoring ecosystems, advancing sustainable aquaculture and harnessing ocean data,” he explained. “We’ve also co-founded the Global Fund for Coral Reefs with the Paul G. Allen Foundation. It blends public and private finance to mobilise billions — not just to protect reefs, but to support the livelihoods of the communities who depend on them.”

The Prince stressed that while technologies and investment are essential, public trust remains the cornerstone of long-term success. “People will support climate action if they see that it is fair. If they breathe cleaner air, see safer coastlines, and experience more secure livelihoods. Visible benefits, not abstract promises, will build lasting support.”

A new coalition for climate resilience

The meeting brought together representatives from the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, and the Minderoo Foundation, who said they intend to increase collaboration on climate resilience, adaptation, public communication and financing tools.

Speakers at the event pointed to the need for practical action and community-level implementation, rather than broad pledges. Several attendees noted that long-term credibility would depend on how quickly partnerships could deliver measurable outcomes.

Prince Albert II concluded his remarks by urging continued investment in nature as a global public good. “Let’s put innovation and finance at the service of communities,” he said. “Let’s build trust as carefully as we build partnerships. If we succeed, nature will remain our greatest ally — and we will leave behind a safer, fairer, more resilient climate for future generations.”

See also: 

ReOcean Fund marks $73 million closing with Nasdaq tribute in New York

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Main photo: Prince Albert II seated with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tony Blair, photo credit: Michaël Alesi, Prince’s Palace

Eva Longoria to headline first Global Gift Gala in Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/09/2025

A new high-profile charity gala is set to debut in Monaco this October, with American actress Eva Longoria returning to the Principality — not for the red carpet, but for a cause close to her heart.

On Saturday 4th October, the Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris will host the inaugural Global Gift Gala Monaco, with Longoria serving as honorary president. The event is spearheaded by Camille Gottlieb, daughter of Princess Stéphanie, alongside entrepreneur Medy Anthony, founders of CMC Consulting.

The glittering evening will raise funds for the Global Gift Foundation, a non-profit launched in 2013 by philanthropist Maria Bravo. The foundation works globally to support vulnerable women, children, and families, partnering with grassroots charities and building community centres, or casas, around the world.

Star-studded evening honours Princess Stéphanie and Daddy Yankee

This new Monaco edition of the gala joins a prestigious line-up of international events previously held in Paris, Marbella, London, and Dubai. For its Monaco debut, the organisers are pulling out all the stops: 200 invited guests, a red carpet reception, live performances, and an exclusive charity auction.

Princess Stéphanie will be honoured with the Philanthropy Award for her long-standing commitment to humanitarian work, while global reggaeton superstar Daddy Yankee will receive the Humanitarian Award.

The evening will feature entertainment by Christina Milian, Vitaa, mentalist Lior Suchard, and the legendary Gipsy Reyes Heritage. Celebrity guests expected include F1 driver Arthur Leclerc, model Baptiste Giabiconi, and “some surprises”, says Medy Anthony.

Auction highlights: from Cristiano Ronaldo to Daenerys Targaryen

The charity auction promises to be as glamorous as the guest list. Among the standout lots is a Jacob & Co. timepiece designed with football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, and an experience package to walk the red carpet and dine at the London gala alongside Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke.

Proceeds from this year’s gala will go entirely to the Global Gift Foundation. Starting next year, the organisers plan to partner with a Monaco-based charity.

“Our goal is to make this gala a fixture on Monaco’s social calendar,” says Medy Anthony. “And to link it closely with the values of the Principality — community, compassion, and impact.”

Tickets to the Global Gift Gala are available here.

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Photo of Eva Longoria at a previous Global Gift Gala, source: Global Gift Foundation

Monaco Yacht Show unveils 2025 Blue Wake Award winners, spotlighting sustainable innovation in yachting

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/09/2025

At a glittering Grand Opening Night at Le Méridien Beach Plaza, the Monaco Yacht Show 2025 revealed the five winners of its Blue Wake Awards – recognising the most credible, high-impact innovations driving sustainability in the superyacht industry.

The 2025 Blue Wake Awards were announced on Wednesday evening in Monaco, marking a defining moment in the show’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility.

More than 400 guests, including Monegasque officials, private clients, key exhibitors and yachting industry leaders, gathered to celebrate companies pushing boundaries in green technology, design, and materials.

The Blue Wake Awards are the flagship of the Monaco Yacht Show’s sustainability programme, developed in collaboration with the Water Revolution Foundation and supported by Siemens Energy. This year’s winners were selected through a rigorous evaluation process backed by data and third-party verification — ensuring only solutions with real-world impact were honoured.

The 2025 Blue Wake Award winners

TYKUN – Tenders & Water Toys
TYKUN’s H1 hydrogen propulsion system impressed the jury for its performance, innovation, and environmental value. Designed in Italy and ready for production, it offers a high-efficiency, low-impact solution for future-proofed water toys and tenders.

TAI PING – Luxury Products & Services
Tai Ping was awarded for its Biophilic Programme — a range of biodegradable, undyed rugs made from natural fibres such as wool and flax. The collection significantly reduces water, energy use and carbon emissions, offering a luxurious yet eco-responsible alternative.

DEASYL – Nautical Supplier
Deasyl received recognition for its next-generation Sustainable Yachting Fuel. Produced using green chemistry with low energy input, the fuel cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 93%, setting a new benchmark for clean marine energy.

SANLORENZO – Refit / Builder Shipyard
Sanlorenzo made history with the world’s first superyacht equipped with Reformer Fuel Cell technology, in collaboration with Siemens Energy. Using hydrogen extracted from green methanol, the system delivers up to 100 kW of clean electricity at anchor, reducing annual emissions by 20–30%.

REDUCE – Special Jury Award
Silver Yachts’ Reduce catamaran, designed by Espen Øino International, took home the Special Jury Award. Built in recyclable aluminium with a low-resistance hull and exceptional fuel efficiency, the vessel sets a new standard for eco-conscious yacht design.

A future defined by responsibility

“With the Blue Wake Awards, we are sending a clear message: environmental sustainability is not a side topic — it’s becoming central to innovation in yachting,” said Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show.

Robert van Tol, Executive Director of the Water Revolution Foundation, added:
“The winners have not only met the highest standards of evaluation, but set a benchmark for what meaningful progress in our industry looks like.”

The international jury featured leaders from across the superyacht and sustainability sectors, including representatives from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, Boat International, SuperYacht Times, Siemens Energy and the Blue Marine Foundation.

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Prince Albert II honoured with FPA Medal at state dinner in New York

by: Cassandra Tanti
29/09/2025

It was an action-packed visit to New York for Prince Albert II of Monaco, who capped off a week of high-level diplomacy and climate talks by receiving the prestigious Foreign Policy Association (FPA) Medal at a State Dinner on 22nd September.

The event, hosted by the FPA at the University Club, brought together dignitaries, diplomats, and international thought leaders to honour Prince Albert II’s decades-long commitment to environmental protection, global cooperation, and scientific diplomacy.

Foreign Policy Association Medal awarded to Prince Albert II

Founded in 1918, the Foreign Policy Association is one of the United States’ leading organisations promoting informed public dialogue on international relations. Its highest honour, the FPA Medal, is awarded to heads of state and global leaders who have demonstrated a deep commitment to diplomacy, cooperation, and international understanding.

Previous recipients include King Felipe VI of Spain and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

A legacy of climate leadership and diplomacy

In his keynote remarks, FPA Chairman Henry Fernandez described the Prince as “a leader who embodies diplomacy in action,” noting his environmental legacy as especially worthy of recognition.

Fernandez highlighted Prince Albert’s scientific missions to the Arctic and Antarctic, his foundation’s work in ocean conservation, and the launch of the Monaco Explorations Initiative.

“In a time of global uncertainty and growing division, Prince Albert’s voice is one of clarity and cooperation,” said Fernandez. “His dedication to sustainability and science diplomacy exemplifies what the FPA stands for.”

A milestone moment during a packed UNGA week

The medal presentation took place during an intense week of engagements for Prince Albert II on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

His schedule included a bilateral meeting with the President of Portugal, a high-level climate roundtable alongside Tony Blair and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and a key event celebrating the activation of the High Seas Treaty — a global milestone for ocean protection.

Reinforcing Monaco’s global role on climate and cooperation

The FPA Medal adds to a growing list of international recognitions for Prince Albert II’s environmental and diplomatic leadership. It also reinforces Monaco’s influence on the world stage, particularly in the areas of ocean governance, climate policy, and sustainable development.

As global challenges continue to mount, Prince Albert’s call for science-based cooperation and his unwavering environmental focus position Monaco as a principality punching far above its weight in international affairs.

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Photo source: FPA

Chokolashow exhibition opens with anonymous voting

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
29/09/2025

The eight chocolate artworks created for Chokolashow’s second edition went on display at Wannenes Art Contact in Monaco at September 25th and will remain there, open to public voting until October 10th. 

In a unique twist, the artworks are displayed anonymously, each identified only by a number from one to eight. This technique ensures visitors vote based solely on the artistic merit of each piece rather than the reputation of the artist.

Visitors can view the chocolate creations during the gallery’s opening hours and cast their vote by placing a numbered ballot in the designated box. The most popular artwork will be revealed at the Chokolashow Village on 13th and 14th October.

The main event ahead

The Chokolatsow Village will take place at the Méridien Beach Plaza from 10am to 6pm on both days, with free entrance to the public. The two-day  programme includes chocolate tastings, creative workshops, and a special ‘Choco therapy’ session led by artist Monica Di Rocco on October 14th from 3pm to 5pm.

The highlight of the village will be a charity auction on the evening of the 14th, where all eight chocolate artworks will be sold. Proceeds will be distributed equally among eight charities, which will be drawn by lottery that evening. The auction will be followed by a gourmet dinner prepared by the hotel’s executive chef, Laurent Collin. Reservations for the evening event can be made through this email: info@chokolashow.com

This unique initiative is organised by the Monaco International Hub Association and chaired by journalist Maria Bologna

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All photos credit: AMP Monaco

A photo gallery of the eight artworks can be found below…