Few events capture the essence of luxury travel quite like the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS). Every year, this prestigious gathering transforms the picturesque Port Hercule into a playground for the world’s elite, where sparkling superyachts, glamorous parties, and timeless Riviera charm converge. The 2025 edition, held from September 24–27, was no exception, showcasing over 120 superyachts and attracting more than 500 exhibitors from across the globe.
Even though the show has concluded, the experiences, highlights, and insider tips from 2025 remain invaluable for anyone planning a future visit. Whether you are an avid yachting enthusiast, a lover of luxury travel, or simply seeking inspiration for your next Mediterranean escape, this guide is designed to immerse you in the sophistication, elegance, and splendor that define the Monaco Yacht Show.
2025 Show Highlights
The Monaco Yacht Show 2025 was a spectacular display of nautical innovation, style, and opulence. From brand-new superyacht premieres to exclusive VIP experiences, the event left an indelible mark on attendees and industry insiders alike. Here are the standout features:
- Superyacht premieres: Leading shipbuilders, including Feadship, Lürssen, and Benetti, showcased their latest creations, blending cutting-edge engineering with timeless design. Guests were treated to a visual feast, with each yacht offering unique interiors, expansive decks, and luxurious amenities that defined the pinnacle of maritime craftsmanship.
- Luxury Tender & Toys Zone: This section captivated visitors with the latest high-end tenders, jet skis, and innovative water toys. Whether you were curious about sleek speedboats or futuristic watercraft, the zone provided hands-on experiences that emphasized fun and style.
- Sustainability Hub: As environmental consciousness continues to shape luxury industries, the Monaco Yacht Show 2025 proudly featured sustainable innovations in shipbuilding. Eco-friendly yachts, alternative energy systems, and innovative hull designs demonstrated how the future of luxury yachting can align with responsibility toward our oceans.
- Upper Deck Lounge & VIP experiences: Exclusive gatherings, private yacht tours, and curated dinners offered networking opportunities for industry professionals and high-profile guests. The VIP experience was designed to combine leisure, luxury, and strategic connections in an intimate, elegant setting.
Even if you didn’t attend this year, these highlights provide a glimpse into the experience, helping travelers plan an unforgettable journey for the 2026 show.
How to Reach Monaco
For international travelers, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) remains the most convenient gateway, located just 30 kilometers from Monaco. In 2025, visitors enjoyed multiple transport options to reach the city in style:
- Helicopter transfers: A scenic 7-minute flight from Nice Airport to Monaco, offered by Monacair or Heli Air Monaco, is a quick and luxurious way to begin your Riviera adventure. Not only does it save time, but the aerial views of the Mediterranean coastline are truly unforgettable.
- Private car or limousine: Many guests pre-booked luxury cars or limousines, ensuring a seamless, comfortable journey into Monaco. This option is ideal for VIP travelers seeking privacy and elegance.
- Train: The TER line from Nice-Ville to Monaco Monte-Carlo station offers a scenic, relaxing 25-minute journey along the Riviera. Perfect for those who prefer a more leisurely approach or wish to soak in the coastal scenery.
Travel tip for future visitors: Consider spending a day in Nice before heading to Monaco. Explore the Old Town, enjoy airport lounges, or take a short coastal excursion to make the most of your Riviera experience.
Luxury Stays During the Yacht Show
Accommodation in Monaco fills up quickly during the show, and 2025 was no exception. The principality’s hotels range from historic palaces to modern resorts, each offering a unique take on luxury. Top picks included:
- Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo: A Monaco icon, featuring ocean-view suites, Michelin-starred dining, and world-class service. Perfect for guests who want to immerse themselves in classic Riviera glamour.
- Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo: This Belle Époque gem offers refined elegance and breathtaking views of Port Hercule, ideal for travelers seeking timeless sophistication.
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort: A modern Mediterranean resort with private sea access, extensive wellness facilities, and contemporary design elements.
- Fairmont Monte Carlo: Perched on a cliff above the harbor, this property offers panoramic views and proximity to the show, blending comfort with convenience.
- Columbus Hotel Monte-Carlo: A boutique option located near Fontvieille, popular among younger attendees and those seeking a stylish yet intimate stay.
Booking early is crucial. Many travelers leverage Booking.com, Trip.com, or concierge services to secure their preferred suites and access exclusive yacht-week packages.
Things to Do Beyond the Yachts
Monaco offers much more than yachts. The principality is a playground for culture, cuisine, shopping, and scenic exploration. Here are some must-do experiences:
- Casino de Monte-Carlo: Even if you’re not a gambler, the casino’s architecture and elegance make it worth a visit. It’s a symbol of Monaco’s heritage and sophistication.
- Oceanographic Museum: Perched above the cliffs, the museum combines maritime history, marine biology, and panoramic views — a cultural gem in the heart of Monaco.
- Fine dining: Le Grill at Hôtel de Paris offers Michelin-starred cuisine with stunning harbor views, while other restaurants feature Mediterranean-inspired menus showcasing the best local produce.
- Shopping: Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo caters to luxury fashion lovers, offering designer brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier.
- Nearby day trips: Visit charming villages like Èze or explore Nice via train or helicopter. The Riviera’s scenic coastline offers endless opportunities for leisure, photography, and relaxation.
These activities complement the yacht show, creating a comprehensive luxury travel itinerary.
Travel Tips for Future Monaco Yacht Show Visitors
Even though the 2025 show has concluded, the following tips are timeless for anyone planning a future visit:
- Book early: Hotels, flights, and even dinner reservations fill quickly — plan at least six months in advance.
- Dress elegantly: Smart casual by day, cocktail attire by night. Monaco is synonymous with style, and your wardrobe should reflect it.
- Use local apps: The “Monaco Go!” app helps with buses, e-bikes, and parking. Offline maps are handy for exploring the city without interruption.
- Stay hydrated: September in Monaco is sunny, and daytime temperatures can be surprisingly warm. Carry a refillable water bottle.
- Network smartly: Bring business cards. Many attendees are industry professionals, making networking opportunities invaluable.
- Consider concierge services: From airport transfers to private yacht access, concierge services ensure a smooth, luxurious experience.
- Check yacht access rules: Many vessels are strictly invitation-only. Verify permissions in advance.
- Arrive early: Allow time to settle in and enjoy Monaco before the show begins.
- Use eco-transfers: Electric taxis, e-bikes, and shared vehicles align with Monaco’s sustainability initiatives while offering convenience.
- Leave time for relaxation: Larvotto Beach and Thermes Marins Spa are perfect escapes after a day at the show.
Bonus tip: Consider extending your Riviera itinerary. Combine Monaco with Cannes, Nice, or Menton for scenic exploration and a richer luxury experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the Monaco Yacht Show 2025 held?
September 24–27, 2025, at Port Hercule, Monaco. - Who can attend?
Daily visitor passes were available; VIP and industry access required invitations. - What airport is best?
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the closest international gateway. - How do I travel from Nice to Monaco?
Options include helicopter transfers, private cars, and TER trains. - Do I need a visa?
Monaco follows Schengen rules; many nationalities enjoy visa-free short stays. - What’s the dress code?
Elegant, smart casual during the day; cocktail attire for evening events. - Are yachts accessible to everyone?
Some were open to the public; many were strictly invitation-only. - Is Monaco expensive?
Yes — accommodations, dining, and transport during the show are premium. - What else can I do nearby?
Visit Casino Square, Larvotto Beach, or take scenic day trips along the Riviera. - Where can I book luxury experiences?
Trusted platforms like Viator, Trip.com, and Booking.com offer curated yacht-week packages and tours.
Looking Ahead to 2026
While 2025 has wrapped, the Monaco Yacht Show continues to be a highlight of the global luxury calendar. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a seasoned yachting enthusiast, planning early, securing premium accommodations, and embracing the Riviera lifestyle ensures an unforgettable experience.
From elegant hotels and Michelin-star dining to scenic heli-transfers over the Mediterranean, attending the Monaco Yacht Show is not just an event — it’s a masterclass in sophisticated travel. Bookmark this guide as your blueprint for Monaco Yacht Show 2026, where style, elegance, and the world’s finest yachts converge in one spectacular setting.
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Disclaimer
This article is based on my personal travel research and experiences and is intended for informational purposes only.