The Roar of the Riviera: How the Monaco Grand Prix Drives the Superyacht World

Each May, as the scent of high-octane fuel mingles with the salty sea air, and the glint of the Riviera sun reflects off polished chrome, an undeniable frisson of anticipation electrifies Monaco. The Grand Prix, that magnificent ballet of speed and precision, is more than just a race; for those in the know, it is a quintessential calendar event that transcends sport and becomes a spectacular theatre of luxury, power, and influence. And at its very heart, beating in synchronicity with the pounding engines, is the magnificent rhythm of the superyacht industry.

Imagine the scene: Port Hercule, typically a serene harbour of gleaming vessels, transforms into a pulsating amphitheatre, with superyachts becoming the most coveted vantage points to watch the Formula 1 cars race past. Here, the world’s elite converge, not just to witness the thrill of the race, but to engage in a unique social and commercial phenomenon. It’s an alchemy of sport and spectacle, where business deals are struck over champagne flutes and lasting connections are forged amidst the roar of the engines.

This spectacle, for us in the superyacht world, bears a striking resemblance to another key event in Monaco’s calendar: the Monaco Yacht Show. Both events see Port Hercule at capacity, brimming with an unparalleled collection of the world’s most exquisite yachts. However, as Gaëlle Tallarida, General Manager of the Monaco Yacht Show, astutely observes, while the port is equally full, the “public during the Grand Prix is different; it is a celebrity, mundane event. This is the number one event for the Principality.” Indeed, the Grand Prix is a magnet for global luminaries, an occasion during which seeing and being seen is as important as the race itself.

Today, the Monaco Yacht Show and the Grand Prix are undeniably recognised as the two most important events for the Principality, a testament to their profound financial impact. While hotels in Monaco report that guests who stay during the Monaco Yacht Show might be more affluent, the sheer volume and widespread nature of the Grand Prix’s allure means the revenue generated by the GP is significantly higher. It’s a testament to the broad appeal of Formula 1, drawing in not just yacht owners and enthusiasts but a global audience of high-net-worth individuals and discerning thrill-seekers.

For those navigating this glittering whirl, a few insights can elevate the experience from memorable to truly sublime. Andrea Carlevaris from ACP Surveyors, a seasoned observer of the Monaco scene, advises that “the best parties are those held on the yachts, at anchor or even more chic if they are in Port Hercule.” The allure of a private gathering aboard a superyacht, with the race unfolding just metres away, is indeed unparalleled. However, for those not privy to such exclusive invitations, Carlevaris offers a pragmatic tip: “come by train and forget the car!” Once on foot, a classic start to the day involves “breakfast at Café de Paris or Hermitage”, perfect for the quintessential Monaco pastime of people-watching and boat-watching.

For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the high-octane social whirl, Jim Evans, Managing Partner of Superyachts Monaco, a boutique brokerage house based in the Principality, offers insider recommendations. He suggests exploring the offerings of “Senate Grand Prix, which has all access and the best positions and events.” For an opulent evening, Amazonico “surrounded by tall ladies on the roof over the casino square” promises to be an unforgettable experience. While “NYX nightclub is good, but hard to get into”, the “Sunset parties every day at Meridien Beach Club” offer a vibrant alternative. For a more mature and perhaps slightly more refined crowd, “Amber Lounge is still suitable”.

For those looking to enjoy the thrill of the Grand Prix from the comfort of their hotel, Serge Ethuin, General Manager at Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo, advises that “staying here during the Monaco Grand Prix is a unique experience.”. In fact, this is the perfect destination for gastronomy lovers and thrill-seekers alike, as “each of our four restaurants has a unique identity – from two-Michelin-starred Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac and Japanese restaurant Yoshi, to the Lobby Bar at the heart of the hotel and our Italian poolside pop-up ZIA.”.

Source: Instagram Sabrinamontecarlo

The unique tablescaping Sabrina created to support Charles Leclerc – Photo by Yvan Grubski

Beyond the public fanfare and ticketed events, the Grand Prix truly offers a glimpse into a world of exclusivity. One of the most sought-after invitations is undoubtedly the lunch at the private residence of legendary yacht designer Espen Øino and his wife Sabrina (aptly named the Queen of Monaco). These intimate gatherings represent the very pinnacle of the Monaco social calendar, a rare convergence of industry leaders and discerning individuals.

At the very heart of both the Grand Prix and the Monaco Yacht Show is the Yacht Club de Monaco, a space that acts as a constant beacon of elegance and prestige. It is a nexus of the yachting world, a place where business and pleasure seamlessly intertwine. Indeed, it is the place to be, often graced by the presence of its esteemed patron, Prince Albert, a testament to its enduring significance in the lifeblood of the Principality. Mrs Eleonora Pitasso de Pundert, owner of Heesen 50m Bijin told us: “For the ultimate Grand Prix experience, the sun deck of the Yacht Club de Monaco is unparalleled. Make sure you’re on the port-facing side for prime views of the race track, a flute of champagne in hand, and your day will be nothing short of perfect!”

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This spectacular backdrop, teeming with global leaders and influential figures, also provides the perfect setting for more profound endeavours. At Heesen, we believe that with great success comes great responsibility, and the Grand Prix offers a unique opportunity to leverage this convergence of wealth and influence for noble causes. This year, we were incredibly proud to sponsor a highly anticipated party to raise crucial funds for Mercy Ships. Giving back to those in need is not merely a philanthropic gesture but an essential act of global citizenship. In a world of immense disparities, leveraging our platform and influence to support organisations that provide life-changing medical care to those in dire need, as Mercy Ships so admirably does, becomes a moral imperative. It is a tangible way to translate the privilege of our industry into a positive impact on countless lives, embodying the true spirit of responsible luxury.

The Monaco Grand Prix is far more than a sporting event. It is a powerful catalyst for the superyacht industry, an annual demonstration of luxury’s magnetic pull, and a vital platform for connection, commerce, and celebration. As the chequered flag falls and the engines’ roar fades, its influence’s ripples continue to resonate throughout the global superyacht market, a reminder of Monaco’s unparalleled position as the epicentre of sophisticated life.