The 10th edition of Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe has concluded.
A unique event on the circuit and organised in partnership with its official timekeeper Hublot, Credit Suisse, Italian car manufacturer Lancia and the SEPM, this biennial regatta brings together yachts and motorboats of all sizes from the past.
Respect for etiquette, safeguarding the environment and paying tribute to our heritage: these are the key principles behind a label that reaches out beyond YCM members to bring owners together for friendly competitions on the water, followed by a host of parties in traditional Monaco fashion where they can meet and chat in elegant surroundings.
This year there were nearly 100 exceptional boats, including the four remaining 15 M IR yachts, sailing together for the first time in nearly 100 years, and all enjoying superb conditions that brought out the best of the best in each category.
Monaco Classic Week provides a superb showcase for the past in the run up to the Monaco Yacht Show where the boldest innovations and images of what the future holds are to be found.
The two events at both ends of the spectrum add weight to Monaco’s role as the world capital of yachting, one of the wishes of the Sovereign Prince Albert II, YCM president who was very present throughout the event, as was HRH Princess Caroline who welcomed YCM members aboard her motoryacht Pacha III.
Highlight of the week was the sight of the four 15 Metre International Rating yachts racing together, all Fife designs launched between 1908 and 1912 and the only ones left of a series for which only 20 were built between 1907 and 1917.
The competition between these four 15 M was won by Mariska, helmed by Madam Laurence Ramès.