The Yacht Club de Monaco invites you to the 17th Monaco Classic Week, which takes place from 9 to 13 September. Organised every two years since 1994, the event is dedicated to maritime heritage and the "Art de Vivre la Mer" lifestyle embodied by classic yachts. The event brings together around 100 historic vessels, including around 50 classic sailing yachts, 15 motor yachts, more than 60 vintage motorboats and a dozen one-off class dinghies. Participation is by invitation only and offers an extensive programme both on the water and on land.
Historical treasures in Monaco
The participating sailing yachts include true contemporary witnesses of the art of boat building. The three-master "Créole" (1927) and the "Invader" (1905) are expected, as are the schooner "Zaca" (1929), "Puritan" (1930) and "Elena of London" (2009). The Bermuda ketch "Manitou" (1937) and the gaff ketches "Viola" (1908) and "Partridge" (1885), which is celebrating its 140th anniversary, will be among the other historic sailing ships represented. The 15M yacht "Tuiga", built in 1909, was also announced, but had to cancel its participation due to the demasting at the Copa del Rey Repsol de Barcos de Época off Menorca.
Maritime diversity with history
Among the historic motor yachts, the "Kalizma" (1906, 46m) stands out, one of the oldest classic motor yachts still in operation, which once belonged to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. The American steamship "SS Delphine" (1921, 79m) is also expected to be on display. The vintage motorboat fleet includes the "Scolopendra" (1903), "Triton" (1908) and "Lady Isabelle" (1930) as well as several Riva models, including the Riva Aquarama, which was launched in 1962. The field is completed by a dozen Dinghy 12' unit classes, which were Olympic in 1920 and epitomise the spirit of small, elegant leisure boats.
In addition to the regattas and nautical events in the bay of Roquebrune, an exhibition village open to the public offers space for painters, sculptors, photographers, boat builders and maritime craftsmen. As night falls, owners and crews continue the festivities in an elegant and friendly atmosphere.
Not only the most beautiful win
One of the highlights of the event is the La Belle Classe Restoration Prize, whose jury, chaired by British yachtsman Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, assesses the quality of the restoration work on the ships, some of which are over a hundred years old. The Elegance Contest, chaired by Allegra Gucci, will judge etiquette, style and adherence to the "Art de Vivre la Mer" lifestyle at sea. The results of both competitions will decide the winner of the coveted Monaco Classic Week Trophy, which recognises restoration, elegance and a certain "spirit of yachting".
