The 17th edition of Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe came to a close after four days of elegance, heritage, and passion, with the coveted Monaco Classic Week Trophy – Rolex awarded to the gaff schooner Mariette of 1915.
Launched in 1994, this biennial celebration has become one of the world’s most prestigious gatherings of classic boats, combining sport, heritage, and the Art de Vivre la Mer lifestyle. This year brought together more than 150 boats, including 40 classic sailing yachts (half over a century old), a dozen period motor-yachts, 70 vintage powerboats – including a record 50 Rivas – and a fleet of 12’ Dinghy Class boats.
HSH Prince Albert II joined crews and praised owners for their commitment to preserving maritime heritage. “These boats have stories to tell, and we must continue to share this passion,” said YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.
The jury, chaired by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, recognized Mariette of 1915 for her flawless restoration, exceptional condition, loyal ownership over two decades, and her crew’s dedication to training the next generation of sailors.
Other winners included Olympian (1913) in Vintage Gaff, Falcon (1930) in Vintage Marconi, One Wave (1948) in Marconi B, Mariska (1908) in Big Boats, and Argynne III (1955) of YCM in Classic Marconi.
The event also featured a dazzling Elegance Contest under the patronage of BMW, a Chefs Competition celebrating 20 years of partnership with Moët Hennessy, and a record-breaking turnout of Rivas that drew crowds – including Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc – to admire the floating symbols of Italian dolce vita.
Looking ahead, Monaco Classic Week announced that in 2026, Viola (1908) and YCM flagship Tuiga (1909) will embark on a historic transatlantic campaign to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, strengthening ties with American yacht clubs.
With its unique mix of racing, tradition, and glamour, Monaco Classic Week once again reaffirmed its status as one of the most exceptional classic yachting gatherings in the world.
Prizes and Trophies
Monaco Classic Week Trophy – Rolex: Mariette of 1915
Mairie de Monaco Prize:
Partridge (1885) – Jean-Raymond Boule
La Belle Classe Original Prize: Peggy Bawn (1894)
La Belle Classe Restoration – Monaco Marine: Italica (1964)
La Belle Classe Canot automobile: Lipicar IV
La Belle Classe Canot automobile: Lady Isabelle (1930)
Coup de cœur of the Jury: Tulli (1960)
Coup de cœur of the Jury: Moonyeen (1937)
Elegance Contest – BMW:
Classic Sailing Yacht: Mariska (1908)
Motor-yacht: Blue Bird (1938)
Vintage Powerboat: Lady Isabelle (1930)
Coup de cœur Elegance Contest: Anne-Sophie (1938)
Big Boat Group:
- Mariska (1908)
- Hallowe’en (1926)
- Mariella (1938)
Classic Marconi:
- Argynne III (1955)
- Brynhilde (1958)
- Sardonyx (1957)
Vintage Marconi:
1- Falcon (1930)
2- Anne Sophie (1938)
3- Carron II (1934)
Vintage Marconi B:
1- One Wave (1948)
2- Suzette (1930)
3- Irene VIII (1935)
Vintage Gaff:
1- Olympian (1913)
2- Chips (1913)
3- Viola (1908)
Dinghy 12′:
1- Oliver – Antonio Iacometti – ITA
2- Blu Amnesia – Federico Pilo Pais – ITA
3- No Way – Alessandro Pedone – MON
Powerboats:
- Lipicar IV
Manoeuvrability trial:
- Papagena 2 (1965)
- Albatross (1955)
- Riva Classiche (1968)
Photographic Rally – Powerboats:
1 – Aristote S. – Patrick Raffeneau – Dames et canots
2 – Canot Pucci I –Bruno Huber Musée en vitesse
3 – Canot Cocoa –François Belle La Dolce Vita
Riva Prize:
Lipicar IV
Riva Classiche Prize:
Pasha – Aquarama 2nd series of 1969 n° 245 of Enzo Pellizzaro.
Mato – Ariston 2nd series of 1960 n° 317 of Gabriele Turchi
MBS Riva Prize:
La Grande Bellezza
