Yacht Club de Monaco

Club information

• Country: Monaco
• Town/City: Monaco

© Yacht Club de Monaco

Yacht Club de Monaco

Yacht Club de Monaco: Prestige, Excellence, and Mediterranean Elegance

Perched on the edge of Port Hercule with sweeping views of the French Riviera, the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) is not just one of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the world—it’s a symbol of seafaring heritage, luxury, and innovation. Founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier III and now presided over by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, YCM serves as both a social institution and a nerve centre for international yachting culture.

A Modern Icon of Yachting The club’s striking clubhouse, inaugurated in 2014, was designed by renowned architect Sir Norman Foster. Shaped like a futuristic ship, this four-level structure is a beacon for Monaco’s elite and visiting sailors. Overlooking a harbour lined with superyachts, the building houses everything from lounges and restaurants to a library, exhibition halls, and private terraces. The clubhouse is a cornerstone of Monaco’s identity as a maritime hub, linking tradition with sustainable innovation. The club actively promotes cleaner marine technologies and supports the development of electric propulsion, including events like the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge.

Facilities and Services Members and their guests enjoy access to an array of world-class facilities, including:

Private berths in Port Hercule, accommodating yachts up to 60+ metres

Fine dining restaurants with panoramic sea views

Elegant lounges, meeting rooms, and event spaces

A nautical library and heritage archives

Fitness and wellness centre

Sailing school with instruction for all ages and abilities

Crew support, concierge services, and guest berthing assistance

Event hosting, including regattas, private functions, and business summits

The club is also deeply involved in competitive sailing, organising top-tier events such as the Monaco Classic Week, Monaco Sports boat Winter Series, and the Monaco Globe Series, an IMOCA ocean race that forms part of the Vendée Globe qualification path.

Membership: A Matter of Distinction Joining the Yacht Club de Monaco is highly selective. It’s not a matter of paying a fee—membership is granted through invitation or sponsorship and is subject to the approval of a dedicated admissions committee.

The process includes: Sponsorship by two current members, one of whom must have at least five years of continuous membership. Submission of an application dossier including a motivation letter, references, and detailed personal/professional background. Review by the admissions committee, followed by a probationary period. Final approval by H.S.H. Prince Albert II, who serves as club president.

Membership is sought not only for the prestige it confers but also for access to the global network of reciprocal clubs and invitations to exclusive events in Monaco and beyond.