Tankoa Yachts has celebrated the launch of M/Y Spirit, the brand-new 52-meter yacht from the T52 Vitruvius series, representing one of the most authentic expressions of the shipyard’s construction philosophy.
The launch ceremony took place last Saturday in the presence of the owner, his guests, the shipyard management, and the professionals who contributed to every stage of the yacht’s construction.
M/Y Spirit: design, light, and innovation in 52 meters
A full-custom project, M/Y Spirit was born from the owner’s desire to bring his vision to life, developed in close collaboration with Vitruvius Yacht Design, selecting the Italian shipyard for its ability to create highly personalised yachts with no compromises.
Specifically, the naval architecture and exterior design of M/Y Spirit were developed by Vitruvius Yacht Design, led by Philippe Briand and Veerle Battiau, while the interiors were designed by the Italian studio FM Architettura. The result is a yacht that offers a new interpretation of contemporary luxury, where well-being, privacy, and constant connection with the sea become the key elements of the onboard experience.
One of the project’s most distinctive features is the expansive beach club dedicated to wellness. This area includes a fully equipped fitness and spa space designed to be enjoyed even while cruising. Opening directly onto the aft terrace, it creates a seamless connection between physical activity, relaxation, and the surrounding marine environment. A stern plunge pool and fold-down side platforms complete the area, transforming it into an exclusive oasis overlooking the water.
The interiors follow the same design philosophy, featuring natural materials, soft textures, and refined, essential details that create an elegant and relaxing atmosphere. The understated design approach intentionally allows light, space, and the seascape to become the true protagonists, enhancing the sense of continuity between indoor and outdoor areas.
M/Y Spirit accommodates up to 12 guests across six cabins, supported by a crew of nine accommodated in five dedicated crew cabins. Light is once again the absolute protagonist below deck, as demonstrated by the extensive glazing along the sides and the large aft glass door, which opens in two sections to offer uninterrupted panoramic views of the sea and amplify the sensation of living in constant contact with the water.
Where craftsmanship meets innovation
Power comes from a full-hybrid system developed by E-motion, combining traditional engines, electric motors, and battery packs to deliver a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots. To ensure the highest levels of comfort underway, the project also benefited from the specialist consultancy of van Cappellen Consultancy for the optimisation of noise and vibration levels.
“Spirit perfectly demonstrates Tankoa’s ability to transform an ambitious and highly personalised vision into reality, thanks to outstanding craftsmanship and the close collaboration between the owner, his design team, and ours”, said Vincenzo Poerio, CEO of Tankoa Yachts.
Azimut has launched the contemporary superyacht with foil Hull Vane® and carbon, which, thanks to its lightness, expands the space allowing for an entire deck dedicated to the owner.
The first hull of Grande 44M reflects and confirms the success of the business strategies that have led the group to achieve leadership in the superyacht segment as well. Models over 24 meters now represent two-thirds of the company’s production, and the expansion of the range is marked by the water debut of the new Grande 44, of which seven units have already been sold.
The use of carbon fiber, for more than 50%, has significantly reduced the weight of the structure, allowing for the introduction of four decks, revolutionizing previous layouts. The harmonious profile designed by Alberto Mancini, frees the Upper Deck from any technical space, allowing for an entire deck dedicated to the owner who can thus enjoy private terraces overlooking the horizon.
Azimut Grande 44M, research and technology
Grande 44M represents the pinnacle of Azimut’s technological research, establishing itself as the flagship of the Low Emission fleet with a reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 30% compared to a traditional naval architecture of similar size. A milestone that the company has aimed for to ensure maximum design freedom and the absolute well-being of the owner thanks to the synergy of complementary solutions.
There are as many as Eight tons of weight reduction in the upper parts of the vessel, which has allowed for an increase in onboard volumes without compromising stability, performance, and hull efficiency. The foil Hull Vane® technology: developed in collaboration with the eponymous company, consists of a carbon wing installed at the stern to reduce the wave generated by the hull and generate additional thrust. Azimut’s technical contribution in the application of carbon has allowed its weight to be reduced to just 400 kg. The use of the foil Hull Vane® allows for a reduction in hydrodynamic resistance and a decrease in pitching and rolling, increasing comfort on board.
Mild Hybrid System
The Mild Hybrid system is based on two 50 kW electric motors configured as shaft generators and a battery room of 188 kWh (expandable up to 230 kWh). This technology allows for anchoring with the generators off in complete silence for 3 to 4 hours during the day and 8 to 10 hours at night, without fumes or noise, revolutionizing the quality of life on board. The system also allows for a complete recharge of the battery pack in just two hours at a speed of 15 knots, thus being able to utilize average times to reach the next bay with 100% Zero Emissions autonomy.
Grande 44M will make its world debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026.
Sanlorenzo launches SHE, a model that testifies to the shipyard’s desire to express a more essential vision of luxury, where the values of longevity and sobriety prevail. SHE reinterprets sixties design through a high-tech lens, incorporating the new Volvo Penta IPS Hybrid platform.
She is the first unit of the new “Heritage” model that has been launched in Ameglia in recent days in anticipation of the world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival, with exteriors designed by Zuccon International Project and interiors curated by Piero Lissoni (Lissoni & Partners).
Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo, stated:
“An innovation born out of respect for tradition, SHE demonstrates how the most enduring ideas continue to inspire when reinterpreted with clear and conscious intent. By evoking the elegance and balance of the classic navetta through contemporary design and cutting-edge technologies, SHE embodies our belief that true luxury is not measured by passing trends, but by its ability to endure and remain relevant over time. This is the essence of Sanlorenzo.”
SHE embodies Sanlorenzo’s “Tomorrow’s Timeless” philosophy, combining timeless design, craftsmanship, and innovation, perhaps this new Sanlorenzo the first five units have already been sold even before the launch of the first unit. We now look forward to the Cannes Yachting Festival to discover this new Sanlorenzo rich in tradition but looking to the future of yachting with great foresight.
The 36-meter flagship takes to the sea for the first time, and Sirena Yachts is preparing for its world premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival. With this model, the Turkish shipyard is set to enter the segment of large fiberglass yachts, expanding its offering with a masterpiece of design and engineering.
The construction of the first unit took place at the Yalova facility in Turkey, where significant milestones have been achieved both technically and in terms of interior fittings. The project stems from the collaboration between the shipyard’s internal design team and German Frers for naval architecture, while the interiors bear the signature of Cor D. Rover. Fully customizable according to the tastes and preferences of the owner, the latter combine high-quality materials with a skillful use of natural light, contributing to creating a refined and relaxing atmosphere on board.
Sirena 118: the new flagship
As the flagship of the Sirena Yachts range, the Sirena 118 represents the shipyard’s continuous evolution towards the larger yacht segment, remaining true to the brand’s core principles: efficiency, innovation, and exceptional livability on board.
“Seeing the Sirena 118 in the water for the first time is a moment of immense pride for all of us at Sirena Marine” stated Çağin Genç, CEO of Sirena Marine. “As our new flagship, it showcases the experience, craftsmanship, and ambition of the entire team. The launch is an important milestone for the shipyard, and we are excited to present it to the world at the Cannes Yachting Festival.”
Designed with an exterior style crafted by the internal Sirena team and naval architecture by Germán Frers, the 36-meter yacht features the brand’s signature plumb bow and an efficient fast-displacement fiberglass hull. The interiors, designed by the Dutch studio Cor D. Rover, combine elegance with extensive customization options. The layouts include up to six guest cabins, while owners can opt for an exclusive two-level “loft” suite, connecting the master cabin on the main deck to a private retreat on the lower deck with direct water access.
A new chapter for Sirena Yachts
With a gross tonnage of less than 300 GT, the Sirena 118 stands out for its flexible layout on three decks and spacious internal volumes. The master suite on the main deck ensures a high level of privacy, while the innovative optional “loft” configuration on two levels offers an exclusive private space in direct contact with the sea, connected by an internal spiral staircase. The sleeping area can also accommodate up to six guest cabins, including a spacious VIP, designed to ensure maximum comfort during long stays on board.
Performance is entrusted to an efficient fast-displacement hull and a pair of MAN V12 engines, which in the standard configuration allow for a maximum speed of 16 knots, increaseable to 21 knots with the upgraded engine package.
Ahead of its 35th edition, taking place from 23 to 26 September 2026, the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) has officially released its first Exhibitor List, giving visitors the opportunity to start planning their meetings well in advance of September.
The list will be updated regularly throughout the summer, providing an ever-evolving overview of the companies set to attend what is widely regarded as the world’s most prestigious yachting event. It offers an early insight into the expertise that will come together in Monaco across every stage of a yachting project, from design and construction to brokerage, refit, equipment and components, project management and specialist services.
“The publication of the exhibitor list offers a first glimpse of the exceptional concentration of expertise that will be present at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, enabling visitors to begin establishing strategic connections well in advance. As the list continues to grow throughout the summer, it will once again highlight the MYS’s role as the central hub where yachting projects take shape and where the entire superyacht industry gathers to network, showcase innovation and help shape the future of the sector”, said Toby Moore, CEO of Informa Prestige.
As new exhibitors confirm their participation week after week, the online list will remain a dynamic planning tool throughout the summer. More than 560 exhibitors are expected when the show opens in September, reaffirming the MYS’ position as the world’s leading and most comprehensive exhibition dedicated to superyachts.
Cover image: © Monaco Yacht Show – ImagiN Agency
Among the most eagerly anticipated debuts at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival is the new Alpha 45, Technohull’s all-new high-performance sport dayboat, designed to redefine performance in the luxury open boat segment.
Joining it at Stand TENDER 115 will be the shipyard’s flagship, the Alpha 50—a perfect expression of the Technohull philosophy, where performance, reliability, and refined design come together in flawless balance.
Alpha 45: the new icon of performance at sea
Measuring 45’3″ (13.80 m) in length, the Alpha 45 is strategically positioned between the Alpha 40 and the flagship Alpha 50, carrying forward Technohull’s performance heritage while reinterpreting it in a new high-performance open boat built to tackle offshore cruising without compromise, yet versatile enough to deliver exceptional comfort for everyday use.
In its highest-performance configuration, powered by four 500-hp outboard engines, the Alpha 45 reaches an impressive top speed of 85 knots while maintaining outstanding stability and confidence even in challenging sea conditions.
One of the most distinctive design elements is its hardtop. Its aerodynamic profile, combined with a large panoramic glass windshield and integrated side deflectors built into the console, optimizes airflow around the helm, minimizing turbulence during high-speed runs.
The deep-V Dynastream hull, featuring ventilated steps and a wave-piercing bow, has been engineered to deliver blistering acceleration, razor-sharp handling, and exceptional seakeeping in demanding offshore conditions. The helm station follows the same performance-oriented philosophy, with two rows of three seats each placing the driver in the center position for optimal visibility and immediate access to all controls.
The deck layout has also been designed with maximum flexibility in mind. At the bow, a spacious U-shaped sunpad is complemented by a forward-facing seat integrated into the central console, while the walkaround side decks provide unrestricted movement throughout the boat. Aft, owners can choose from several configurations, including different-sized sunpads paired with forward-facing seating or an elegant L-shaped lounge that provides easy side access to the swim platform.
Below deck, the Alpha 45 offers surprisingly generous accommodations and premium finishes. A dramatic electrically operated gullwing side door leads to a cabin designed to comfortably accommodate two guests. The space includes a double berth, a full-beam enclosed head with a separate shower, and generous headroom, making the Alpha 45 an excellent choice for extended weekend cruising as well.
The Alpha 45 displayed at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival will feature an elegant white hull finish, triple Mercury 400R outboards, and a distinctly sporty layout with a large aft sunpad and a single row of three helm seats.
ALPHA 45 — Technical specifications
| LOA | 13.8 m (14.05 m inboard) |
| Max Beam | 4.3 m |
| Displacement | 6,500 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 1,400 l |
| Fresh Water Tank | 190 l |
| Engines | Inboard/Outboard |
| Maximum Power | 4 × 500 HP |
| Passenger Capacity | 14 |
| Hull | Deep V Dynastream with ventilated steps |
| Certification | CE Cat B-Offshore |
| Propulsion for the model displayed in Cannes | 3 x Mercury 400R (outboard) |
Alpha 50: the flagship that best embodies the shipyard’s DNA
Generous volumes and perfectly balanced proportions define the striking presence of the Alpha 50, Technohull’s flagship, designed to provide owners and their guests with the ultimate onboard experience.
Its sleek, aerodynamic profile immediately captures attention, with clean, sculpted lines enhanced by the unmistakable arched carbon-fiber hardtop featuring an integrated windshield. The generous beam maximizes the outdoor living areas, which are thoughtfully arranged around multiple spaces dedicated to relaxation and socializing. A large central island sunpad, an expansive aft cockpit, and a spacious forward sunbathing area create distinct yet seamlessly connected environments, allowing guests to enjoy the boat freely whether underway or at anchor.
Technohull’s proven Dynastream hull, combined with its semi-vertical wave-piercing bow and twin ventilated steps, delivers exceptional stability, precise handling, and outstanding performance even in demanding sea conditions.
The Alpha 50 is available with a variety of outboard or inboard propulsion packages, with the most powerful configuration capable of reaching speeds of up to 87 knots.
Below deck, a comfortable double cabin with a separate head and shower comes standard, while an optional second guest cabin significantly expands the yacht’s cruising capabilities, making the Alpha 50 equally well suited for longer stays on board.
ALPHA 50 — Technical specifications
| LOA | 14.95 m / 15.11 (inboard) |
| Max Beam | 4.72 m |
| Displacement | 7,000 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 1,800 l |
| Fresh Water Tank | 200 l |
| Engines | Inboard/Outboard |
| Maximum Power | 5 × 500 HP (outboard) |
| Passenger Capacity | 16 |
| Hull | Deep V with ventilated steps |
| Certification | CE Cat B-Offshore |
Pioneer Yachts, the new shipbuilder based in Straslund, has just announced that the first solar-electric catamaran PY60 has entered the final stages of construction ahead of its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival.
The Pioneer One has been designed and developed to create a reliable solar-electric yacht, conceived from the outset around a fundamental concept: energy storage for real autonomy for continuous use at sea. Founded by engineer and entrepreneur Mike Frank, Pioneer Yachts boasts a team with over 275 years of combined experience in shipbuilding.
Designed by Cossutti & Ganz, with interiors curated by Micheletti + Partners, this Pioneer One 60-foot catamaran combines German engineering with Italian design. The catamaran integrates solar panels, electric propulsion, and diesel generators into a comprehensive energy management system, maximizing autonomy and reducing reliance on shore facilities. The PY60 can reach a maximum speed of 11 knots and cruises at a speed of 7.5 knots.
Pioneer Yachts PY60, an energy ecosystem
The spacious roof houses solar panels that generate energy for normal cruising operations, while the onboard batteries store energy for navigation, significantly reducing the use of traditional propulsion. To enhance the efficiency of the solar-electric system, the entire hull architecture has been meticulously studied, with geometry and weights taking on great importance throughout the design cycle while maintaining a coherent aesthetic and modern design.
The feature that best represents the design of this new solar-electric catamaran from Pioneer Yachts is the choice to use a 48-volt electric backbone, allowing onboard systems to operate without the complexity of high voltage, increasing safety on board, ease of maintenance, and management in the medium to long term.
See you at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 8 to 13 for the World Premiere of this technology showcase.
In the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, where the deep blue of the sea meets the black of volcanic rock and the scent of the Mediterranean scrub mingles with the sea breeze, lies the smallest and oldest of the Aeolian Islands: Panarea.
Generally known and appreciated for its social life, this small volcanic gem actually hides a wild and seductive soul that reveals its most authentic face from the sea: hidden bays, transparent seabeds, wind-sculpted cliffs, and landings that seem to have come out of a painting.
For those sailing in the Aeolian Islands archipelago, Panarea is an absolutely unmissable stop. Its jagged coast offers numerous spots where one can drop anchor and enjoy moments of pure relaxation.
A small tender is enough to reach beaches that could be described as small corners of paradise, which would be an understatement.
The most beautiful beaches of Panarea
To the south of the inhabited area, after passing a rocky promontory, you arrive at the popular Caletta degli Zimmari, one of the few sandy stretches of the island, ideal for families and a relaxing break after a day of sailing.
Continuing in the same direction, you reach Punta Milazzese, the site of a prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age (14th century BC) where the remains of the 23 huts that made it up are still clearly visible today.
From here, an ancient path (we do not recommend it for those who suffer from vertigo) leads to what is perhaps the most picturesque landing on the island: Cala Junco, a true natural pool enclosed by extravagant rocky walls where the crystal-clear water takes on turquoise hues and invites long swims and dives.
The true charm of Panarea, however, is discovered by exploring its extraordinary minor archipelago. Aboard a rubber boat or tender, you can reach the islets surrounding the island: Basiluzzo, the largest, with its rocky walls and natural pools carved in lava; Lisca Bianca, famous for its clear waters and underwater volcanic gas emissions that create a unique environment for snorkeling enthusiasts; Dattilo, with its tiny beach; Lisca Nera and the Formiche.
At sunset, sailing around Panarea becomes even more enchanting, with the sun painting the silhouettes of the rocks and the nearby volcano of Stromboli red, which dominates the horizon with its imposing presence.
Between elegance and social life
In addition to its natural beauties, Panarea offers boaters an exclusive and welcoming atmosphere. The small port of San Pietro serves as the reference point for those arriving by sea, with its docks, essential services, and proximity to the characteristic town center. From here, you can reach the heart of the island filled with boutiques, restaurants, and panoramic terraces overlooking the sea. The narrow, white alleys, which are almost blinding in the sun, can only be traversed on foot, by scooter, or, even more comfortably, aboard the convenient gold cars used as taxis.
In the evening, Panarea reveals its more social side: an aperitif by the sea, a dinner of fresh fish, and a stroll under the stars are the ideal preamble for a long night by the sea or a night of unrestrained fun.
Not surprisingly, Panarea is, among the islands of the ’archipelago, the favorite of young people. Among the most appreciated venues, we cannot fail to mention Raya, the most famous nightclub on the island, and perhaps the trendiest place in all of the Aeolian Islands. A terrace by the sea with a breathtaking view, often frequented by celebrities and international jet-set figures.
Cannes Yachting Festival reintroduces, for the 2026 edition from September 8 to 13, the Innovation Route and for the second time its Innovation Route Awards. Thanks to a dedicated path in the Vieux Port and at Port Canto , this program identifies and enhances the most innovative and sustainable solutions presented by exhibitors.
In a particularly delicate moment for the nautical sector, driven by the search to reduce emissions and the design of new sustainable materials, innovation becomes a strategic challenge for the entire industry. New technologies, particularly in the field of electric and hybrid propulsion, open new perspectives for both manufacturers and boaters, as vessels equipped with electric engines represent one of the main levers for growth and innovation in boating.
The Cannes Yachting Festival, always attentive to the respect for the marine environment, through the Innovation Route and its Awards, strengthens its commitment to innovative and sustainable recreational boating.
Cannes Yachting Festival: Innovation Route and Innovation Awards
In the context of the Cannes Yachting Festival, both in the exhibition area of the Vieux Port and at Port Canto, visitors will easily identify exhibitors contributing to the sustainable transformation in boating. All this through dedicated communication and specific signage; this allows for easy identification and comparison of innovations throughout their journey.
The Innovation Route Awards will reward the most deserving projects in four categories:
- The best equipment to optimize navigation
- The best sustainable product
- The best innovative vessel
- The best CSR initiative
A jury composed of professionals and international journalists will select the winners, who will be revealed on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 during the Exhibitors’ Cocktail. A special award called “Jury’s Coup de cœur” may also be granted.
«With the Innovation Route, the Cannes Yachting Festival highlights innovations that shape the future of boating. This program allows both to guide visitors in discovering new solutions in the sector and to offer greater visibility to exhibitors engaged in this transformation. In addition to its role as a showcase for the French and international nautical industry, the Festival asserts its commitment to the sustainable transition of the sector. Registration is free until the next July 17, I strongly encourage our exhibitors to submit their applications», emphasizes Constance Brément, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival.
With Naitiva AI, from the very first welding to the next refit, every detail is captured, connected, and instantly accessible. A superyacht arrives in port and suddenly encounters a technical issue. The captain finds hilmself searching through stacks of paper manuals and PDF files to locate the correct part number, while the local maintenance team may not always have the information needed to carry out the repair. A chain of phone calls begins in an effort to track down the right contacts and resolve the problem.
Until now, fragmented data spread across shipyards, suppliers, captains, and service providers has been one of the industry’s most costly inefficiencies. Routine and extraordinary maintenance typically account for between 5% and 10% of a yacht’s total value, with costs often increasing further due to the lack of a centralized digital maintenance history.
NAITIVA is transforming this reality with an innovative AI-powered digital platform designed to support a yacht throughout its entire lifecycle—from initial design and construction to decommissioning.
A “Digital Twin” and an AI assistant for the crew
NAITIVA is a single digital platform capable of centralizing all of a yacht’s key data and documents. User manuals, electrical and hydraulic schematics, and certificates are digitized and made instantly accessible. At the heart of the platform is the AI Digital Twin, an advanced interface that provides real-time support to captains, crews, and shipyards. Thanks to its proprietary OCR pipeline, the system automatically extracts technical information from documents, allowing users to instantly retrieve component codes, tolerances, operating instructions, and safety-related deadlines. Every AI-generated answer includes direct references to the original source documents, ensuring maximum technical accuracy and full traceability.
The platform also features Component Tracking, creating a true digital twin for every onboard system. This enables real-time lifecycle monitoring of equipment, complete maintenance records, and precise warranty management throughout the vessel’s operational life.
The pros of Naitiva
- For Shipyards: NAITIVA centralizes technical documentation across entire fleets, monitors vessel and component performance, and streamlines after-sales support. This improves customer retention while providing greater visibility and control over warranty management.
- For Captains and Owners: The platform delivers a comprehensive Digital Passport for the yacht, enhancing onboard safety through real-time technical monitoring while protecting the vessel’s long-term value with a certified digital record of every maintenance operation and refit.
- For Selected Maintenance Providers: NAITIVA enables maintenance teams to adopt a prescriptive maintenance approach, optimizing interventions while creating new opportunities for certification and standardized service quality.
With strategic offices in the Italian yachting hubs of Genoa and Viareggio, the NAITIVA team is already working to redefine the standards of yacht management. Shipyards and industry professionals interested in exploring the platform and requesting a personalized demonstration can visit the official website or contact the project team directly.
Behind Naitiva is Maritime Ventures, the venture builder established to accelerate digital transition and innovation in the maritime, logistics, and port sectors. Backed by a coalition of leading financial, industrial, and innovation partners—including CDP Venture Capital, Fincantieri, PSA Italy, Friulia, Compagnia di San Paolo, and NEVA SGR—Maritime Ventures identifies, validates, and develops the most ambitious projects in the maritime economy, transforming them into high-potential startups.
From July 8 to 11, the Yacht Club de Monaco will host the thirteenth edition of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, an international event that has established itself over the years as one of the main laboratories for innovation and energy transition in the nautical sector. For four days, the Principality will become the meeting point for students, researchers, engineers, shipyards, and companies from around the world, called to discuss the technologies aimed at transforming the future of mobility at sea.
Monaco Energy Boat Challenge: the Principality calls the world
The expected numbers for this year’s edition confirm the growing international interest in the event, with the participation of over 1,000 students, 52 teams from 21 nations representing 33 universities, along with 14 universities present as observers. These numbers testify to how the event has established itself in recent years as a privileged platform for the development of solutions dedicated to sustainable yachting.
Organized as part of the initiative “Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting”, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge can count on the support of the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco, UBS, BMW, and SBM Offshore, in addition to the participation of major players in the nautical industry such as Safe Harbor, Oceanco, Ferretti Group, Azimut | Benetti Group, and Lürssen.
“This year we find loyal teams, but also new participants and universities coming to observe the event to prepare for their future entry into competition. It is probably the best indicator of the dynamics of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge,” comments Bernard d’Alessandri, Director and Secretary General of the Yacht Club de Monaco.
A single challenge: the decarbonization of maritime transport
The teams will compete in the categories Energy Class, AI Class, SeaLab Class, and Open Sea Xperience, presenting projects ranging from electric propulsion to hydrogen and methanol-powered systems, to the most advanced foil technologies. Different solutions united by a single goal: to contribute to the decarbonization of maritime transport. From 2024, NatPower H will serve as the technical partner of the event and official supplier of hydrogen, ensuring the supply of the fuel necessary for the trials.
Among the new features this year is the presence of a U.S. delegation composed of Columbia University in New York, George Washington University, Howard University, and Florida International University. The universities will participate as observers with the intention of competing starting from the 2027 edition.
Monaco Energy Boat Challenge: not just races
Alongside the races, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge will also offer a rich program open to the public. From July 9 to 11, the event’s Village will be open for free visits from 10 AM to 6 PM, featuring a television stage with live coverage of the competitions and daily awards, driving simulators, the Winch Challenge, family activities, exhibition areas dedicated to new technologies, refreshment points, and free ice cream distribution during the afternoon.
Among the most anticipated events is the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco Sustainable Yachting Technology Award, which will award a prize of 25,000 euros to the university or research project deemed most promising for energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction in the yachting sector. Competing for the prize will be University of Genoa, ENSAM – Hydrogadz, Politecnico di Torino, and Kumaraguru College of Technology.
The event also confirms its role as a bridge between the academic world and the industrial sector through the Corporate Mentoring Programme, an initiative that in 2026 involved 20 professionals and 22 teams, facilitating the transfer of technical and industrial skills during the development of projects.
As a demonstration of the concrete impact of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge on the sector, there is also the path of NEMO Systems, a startup founded by three former participants of the event. This year, the company will provide the official GPS tracking system, data collection, and analysis for all competing vessels, allowing real-time monitoring of geolocation and energy performance of the prototypes.
The link between the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge and the industrial world is also strengthened through the direct involvement of companies in the development of university projects. Safe Harbor, a partner of the event, has supported two teams from the Energy Class during the year – Hydrogadz from the École nationale supérieure des Arts et Métiers and TAMEO Energy from ENSTA Paris – providing technical support, project management assistance, and access to its facilities. The prototypes were also tested at the group’s shipyard in La Seyne-sur-Mer, where students were able to complete sea trials and fine-tune the vessels before the competition.
UBS also confirms its support for the initiative, emphasizing how the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge represents a concrete example of collaboration between research, industry, and new generations of engineers engaged in developing solutions for more sustainable and efficient maritime mobility.
An important opportunity for discussion
The 2026 edition will also offer a rich program of in-depth discussions dedicated to industry professionals. On July 9, the Advanced Yachting Technology Conference will analyze the latest technological innovations applied to the nautical industry, while the following day, the seventh Alternative Fuels & Sustainable Yachting Conference, organized by the Yacht Club de Monaco together with the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco, will review the main decarbonization strategies in the sector, with presentations dedicated to nuclear propulsion, wind energy, methanol, batteries, and electrification.
There will also be space for knowledge sharing with the Tech Talks, scheduled for July 10. The best teams from the various categories will present their solutions on innovation, design, eco-design, ergonomics, and life cycle analysis to the public and an international jury, competing for awards dedicated to Innovation, Design, and Eco-Design. An event that confirms the vocation of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge as an open platform for discussion, where the technologies developed by the teams become shared heritage for the entire sector.
With its mix of competition, research, and collaboration between universities and industry, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge continues to represent a privileged observatory on the technologies that will drive the evolution of yachting in the coming years. An event that confirms the role of the Principality of Monaco as an international reference point in the development of innovative solutions for increasingly sustainable maritime mobility.
Information and program: www.energyboatchallenge.com
Sinuous and sophisticated, the lines immediately suggest a timeless elegance destined to stand out. But behind the elegant silhouette, the fluidity of the shapes and the low profile of the deck actually hide a soul dedicated to performance and a decidedly modern technical setup.
We are talking about Ouzel, the brand new superyacht measuring 95 feet, born from the collaboration between the American shipyard Rockport Marine, Marine Construction Management (MCM), Langan Design Partners for naval architecture, and Mark Whiteley Design for interior design.
Designed as a true modern classic, Ouzel is a luxurious and comfortable sailing yacht that embodies a perfectly successful balance between traditional forms and contemporary performance with a precise and ambitious goal: to sail fast, effortlessly.
Ouzel: sea trials confirm the quality of the project
The sail plan, developed with Doyle Sails and deliberately essential — mainsail, Yankee, staysail, and Code Zero — has been designed to ensure efficiency and immediacy in every condition. Together with a deep keel and solutions like the Park Avenue boom, it defines a vessel capable of delivering real performance without compromising ease of handling.
It is therefore not surprising that during the sea trials in Penobscot Bay, Ouzel effortlessly exceeded 12 knots in moderate breezes, showing a surprising balance between power and control.
The designer Tom Degrémont, present on board, emphasized how the boat reacted exactly as the team expected: a feeling of power, immediate control, and an overall balance that fully reflects the work done during the design phase. In ideal conditions, the use of the Code Zero allowed for a quick crossing of the bay, confirming the performance goals set from the beginning.
Even in terms of construction, the assessment was equally positive. Peter Wilson of Marine Construction Management (MCM) described the launching of the sails as a highly significant moment after years of work, highlighting the quality of the team involved — from sailmakers to hydraulic technicians, from engineers to riggers — and defining the sea trial a success in every respect. The boat showed a “easy and super responsive” helm response, with only a minimal list of finishing touches, as is normal at this stage.
A key element of the project was the active role of the owner, involved as a true partner in all phases. Specifically, the owner opted for a configuration that allows for a greater draft to the benefit of performance, as well as a blade jib designed to replace the Yankee and staysail during close maneuvers or tight upwind passages,
Elegant and classic in form, Ouzel is not just a tribute to tradition, but a concrete evolution of it, designed to sail far, with speed, control, and a well-defined identity.
