The Formula 1 Louis Vuitton Grand Prix de Monaco weekend kicked off on Thursday 4th June with the official opening party aboard Explora I. Docked in the heart of Port Hercule, the luxury ship welcomed an international guest list for an evening blending hospitality, entertainment, and motorsport ahead of Monaco’s most iconic weekend of the year.
The event marked Explora Journeys’ second consecutive year partnering with the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, further expanding its presence in the Principality. “Maybe the most exciting new address in Monaco this weekend isn’t on land,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “Hosting the official opening party of Formula 1 aboard Explora I places our brand, our ships, and our vision centre stage during one of the world’s most iconic events.”
One of the evening’s standout moments came through Europe’s largest ever drone show featuring 3,050 separate drones. The show highlighted Formula 1’s history, Monaco’s connection to Formula 1, and even the Grand Prix trophy, showcasing a visual celebration of the sport against the iconic backdrop of the Principality.
Inside, the atmosphere was glamorous and high-energy, with dim lighting, live entertainment, and guests moving between cocktail bars and performances throughout the ship. Dancers, contortionists, jugglers, and a tarot card reader added to the immersive atmosphere as the evening unfolded. The event reached its peak with two anticipated DJ sets.
First, international supermodel Naomi Campbell made an appearance spinning a set. Following her, Bob Sinclar also took to the decks, keeping the energy alive into the late hours of the evening. The two drew one of the strongest crowd responses of the night.
Guests onboard could also cross paths with several notable figures including Mika Häkkinen, Damon Hill, and David Coulthard, along with senior executives from both Formula 1 and Explora Journeys.
As the only ship of its kind docked in Port Hercule for the weekend’s entirety, Explora I offered guests staying onboard a unique vantage point and base for Grand Prix weekend, combining exclusive onboard experiences with close proximity to the action.
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