A new era in yachting will open in Monaco on the 20th June with the formal opening of the magnificent new clubhouse of the exclusive Monaco Yacht Club, (Yacht Club de Monaco YCM). Opening onto the main port of Monaco, the Port Hercule, the new Club will enjoy stunning views over the port with its fleet of luxurious superyachts, the historic old town of Monaco and the Palace of the Prince on the Rock. The land facing side of the Clubhouse immediately overlooks the Monaco Grand Prix street circuit at the iconic tunnel exit and chicane.
The Clubhouse was designed by the world famous architect Lord Foster, together with the Monaco architect Alexandre Giraldi. The design was conceived as a stunning addition to the waterfront and to reflect the yachting heritage of Monaco. The building’s exterior evokes the elegant lines and masts of large sailing yachts and the classic elegance of ocean going liners, with nautical references throughout the design.
Within the new building are facilities for member and non-members, with fully equipped meeting rooms for yachting professionals and educational accommodation, including a sailing school for local school children. A central spiral staircase rising through the stunning central atrium will link the swimming pool and terrace, fitness gym, five large guest ‘cabins’, library, ballroom, exhibition hall, plus restaurants and bars.
Prince Albert has taken a close interest in the project, in line with the Principality’s commitment to environmental responsibility and a sustainable future. The Clubhouse makes extensive use of solar panels to provide electricity and heat and uses a hydro cooling systems, which draws on the nearby sea-water, with the objective to meet the HQE standard (Haute Qualité Environmentale). The green spaces in Monaco will be increased with a landscaped roof over the sailing school.
Overlooked by the Clubhouse is the new YCM Marina. Members will benefit from the twenty six new berths that can accommodate yachts up to 200 feet (60metres) in length. There is also provision for tenders and a yacht charter terminal.
The Clubhouse will be the stunning centrepiece of the Monaco harbour and is the jewel in the crown of Mediterranean superyachting reinforcing Monaco’s pre-eminent position as a world centre for superyachting.