The Yacht Club de Monaco’s La Belle Classe Academy has earned official certification from the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), a key global benchmark for professional maritime education. The recognition confirms that its Yachting Masterclass meets the highest international standards, enhancing the programme’s value and credibility for those seeking careers in the yachting industry.
The announcement was made during the graduation ceremony for the 2025 class of the Masterclass, now in its fifth year. “This certification is proof that our programmes meet the high standards expected by professionals in the sector,” said YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri. “It is a unique, internationally focused course that offers a 360-degree view of the industry. My congratulations go to the 19 graduates from 13 nations — students and professionals alike — who now join the La Belle Classe Academy alumni and represent the future of a sustainable yachting sector.”
Training Tomorrow’s Industry Leaders
Launched in 2020, the Yachting Masterclass has already trained 151 participants. The course spans two months and 34 hours of instruction, delivered both in person and online, and covers all key aspects of the yachting ecosystem — from naval architecture and yacht management to interior design, maritime law, marketing and owner relations.
The programme is coordinated by Linda Lusignani and led by Marcela de Kern Royer, with sessions delivered by 17 industry experts from across Europe, including representatives from Monaco Marine, Feadship, Rosemont, Only Yacht, Althaus Yachting, Boat International and others.
A Gateway to Opportunity
Designed for students, industry professionals and yacht crew seeking to deepen their understanding of the sector, the course has become a springboard for career advancement. Graduates report gaining not only technical knowledge but also the confidence and insight needed to navigate the complexities of the yachting world. “It’s a high-standard, well-organised and inspiring course,” said 2025 graduate Yuliya Yakushenka. “The content is relevant and exceeded expectations.”
Some past students have already secured new roles or advanced into specialised positions, such as Lenka Baranova, who completed the course in 2021 and is now a sales representative at the Yacht Toy Company.
An Anchor of Monaco’s Yachting Strategy
The IAMI accreditation adds to the Academy’s existing RYA (Royal Yachting Association) certification and supports the broader ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ initiative. It reflects the Principality’s commitment to raising professional standards and establishing Monaco as a global hub for sustainable and innovative yachting.
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Photos source: YCM