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Monaco is the glittering jewel of the French Riviera and has long been considered the playground of the world’s elite. Its charm lies in its unique blend of old-world glamor and modern luxury, with the principality attracting billionaires, celebrities and luxury jetsetters.
One of the best ways to experience the opulence of Monaco is by yacht, giving you a front-row seat to its coastal beauty and unparalleled events. Whether you rent a ship for a holiday or moor your own superyacht, Monaco is a unique experience.
Port Hercules: the heart of Monaco’s yacht scene
Port Hercules is the main marina and a hub for yachting activities. With space for up to 700 ships, it provides the ideal gateway to the principality.
Securing a berth at high-profile events such as the Monaco Yacht Show or the Grand Prix can be competitive, with bookings needed well in advance to claim a top spot.
Chartering versus owning: which is best for Monaco?
When it comes to experiencing Monaco, many choose a yacht charter over ownership. Chartering offers flexibility, with a wide range of vessels available to suit different needs, from luxury superyachts complete with full crew to smaller, more intimate sailboats.
For those considering frequent visits, ownership offers unparalleled convenience and status, but requires significant investment in maintenance and docking costs. Both options are well represented at the Monaco Yacht Show, where there is a dazzling display of more than 120 yachts available for charter or sale.
Iconic attractions from the water
Monaco’s coastline is best admired from the sea. On board your yacht you can admire iconic landmarks such as the Prince’s Palace and the famous Monte Carlo Casino.
You can also anchor at the picturesque beach of Larvotto to swim or enjoy water sports such as jet skiing or Seabob, an electric underwater scooter that is becoming increasingly popular.
Monaco’s smaller marinas, such as Fontvieille, offer quieter mooring options with easy access to the quieter side of the principality.
The Monaco Grand Prix: the best vantage point for sailing
Perhaps the most prestigious event on the country’s calendar, the Monaco Grand Prix attracts spectators from all over the worldand there’s no better place to watch the action than from a yacht docked in Port Hercules.
During the race, yachts along the harbor provide luxurious front row views and transform into exclusive party locations. Securing a seat at the Grand Prix can be tricky and requires booking months in advance, but it’s worth it for the unforgettable experience of watching Formula 1 from the ultimate spectator perspective.
Good food and going out on a yacht
Monaco’s culinary scene is famous and experiencing it from your yacht adds another layer of exclusivity. Many Michelin-starred restaurants offer catering services and gourmet dining on the water.
For a night out, you can moor and go to hotspots such as the Casino de Monte Carlo or the legendary nightclub Jimmy’z. After an evening of high-roll entertainment, retreat to your waterfront home, the perfect balance between luxury and privacy.