Launched in 1994, Monaco Classic Week remains one of the few regattas in the world able to bring together classic sailing yachts, period motor-yachts, vintage powerboats and classic Dinghy 12ft Class boats in one place. A veritable flotilla filled the YCM Marina this September 10-13, with a fleet of 150 boats displayed along the quays open to the public, showcasing over a century of living maritime heritage.

Centenarians still sailing
Some 50 sailing yachts participated, including 20 over one hundred years old, like the gaff cutters Kismet (1898) and Viola (1908), and Madcap (1874), the oldest pilot cutter still in working order. Some are celebrating remarkable anniversaries like the 140 years of Partridge (1885), and the 110 years of Mariette of 1915. Others open their decks to international delegations. These include the 15M IR Mariska (1908) and her American crew from the Manhattan Yacht Club, who are regular attendees, and the gaff ketch Black Swan (1899), which is welcoming a delegation from the Amaala Yacht Club in Saudi Arabia. Such an international presence illustrates the spirit of camaraderie that drives and strengthens bonds between classic yachting enthusiasts from all over the world.

Riva magic and the elegance of motor-yachts
Glamour icons par excellence, Riva’s mahogany runabouts are regulars at this event. This year, in collaboration with the Riva Exclusive Dealer, Monaco Boat Service, 50 joined the 68-strong line up of powerboats announced, the largest gathering of Rivas ever seen in the Principality. Among them the legendary Lipicar IV, Carlo Riva’s personal Aquarama, recalling the Dolce Vita spirit behind a golden era of Italian design. Alongside them, motor-yachts like Kalizma (1906) and Blue Bird (1938) embodied the art of traditional navigation, witnesses to a century of refinement and expertise.

When cinema meets classic yachts
The 17th edition also invited visitors to delve into the collective imagination with a new exhibition: “Action! Classic Yachts and the Big Screen” on display in the Meeting Room. Visitors discovered how legendary yachts and movie stars have crossed paths, both in Monaco and on the big screen: Zaca (1928) forever associated with Errol Flynn, Kalizma made famous by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, and of course Marge (1930) immortalized alongside Alain Delon in Plein Soleil

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A timeless atmosphere
Monaco Classic Week is much more than a gathering of classic boats, it is an experience combining racing, art, heritage, gastronomy and encounters. From the sea spray to the elegant soirees and crew parties, everyone leaves feeling they have enjoyed an interlude rooted in tradition and looking to the future.