From April 15th to 17th, Monaco confirmed its status as “Capital of Advanced Yachting” by hosting the very first edition of the World Yachting Summit (WYS).
A true success, this pioneering event, which took place at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel, established itself as an essential platform for discussion for decision-makers and stakeholders from across the entire yachting value chain, who came together to reflect on the changes taking place in the sector.
An international ambition at the heart of the Principality
Inspired by major global events such as the COP or the Davos Forum, WYS 2025 brought together participants from 20 nationalities, including nautical industry leaders, representatives of international organizations, regulators, tourism authorities, policy makers, as well as coastal developers and innovators.
For three days, debates, strategic reflections and high-level networking punctuated a program unanimously praised by participants and the specialist press.
A program that meets the challenges
At the heart of this first edition, two major themes :
- Business prospects and tourism development
- Towards a concrete action plan to achieve Net Zero
These axes were explored through 19 round tables, enriched by 8 “Inspiration Talks” and keynotes from experts from related sectors (luxury real estate, wealth management, watchmaking, luxury hotels, private aviation), offering a cross-disciplinary and forward-looking vision.
Jean-Claude Biver: inspiration through excellence
It is Jean-Claude Biver, an emblematic figure of Swiss watchmaking, who opened the ball of inspiring conferences. Known for having brilliantly relaunched brands Blancpain et Hublot, he shared his vision of innovation:
“Be the first. Be unique. Be different.”
Through his experiences – such as the creation of a scratch-resistant gold alloy or the pioneering use of carbon – he reminded us how innovation flourishes through boldness and listening to new generations.
SMART: a roadmap for reinvented yachting
Faced with growing criticism of its environmental impact and its disconnect from contemporary issues, the WYS has proposed a collective reflection, articulated around a new acronym. SMART, reinterpreted as follows:
- Sustainable :
“Sustainability is no longer an option, it is a vital necessity.”, said Olivier Wenden, Vice-President of the Prince Albert II Foundation. For his part, Barbara Sanches (DNV) stressed that Net Zero will only be achieved through a combination of concrete actions and strategic innovations. The testimony of Victorien Erussard, captain of the laboratory ship Energy Observer, illustrated this avant-garde dynamic. - Modern :
Transparency, digitalization, standardization of practices, but also creation of new yachting destinations designed for the expectations of new generations – both customers and crews. - Attractive :
Simplifying uses, promoting craftsmanship, democratizing nautical experiences: so many levers for reconnect yachting to an emotional, creative and accessible dimension. - Resourceful (Ingenious) :
Yachting is a powerful economic engine, still too little known. continuing training of crews also remains a central issue for security, quality of service and the sustainability of the sector. - Transformative (Transformer) :
Awareness of the sea must begin at a very young age. The sector must cultivate a culture of the sea rooted in passion, excellence and respect for life.
A cautious, but very present, optimism
As pointed out Albert Manzone, Deputy Director General of SBM, Monaco illustrates, through its model of resilience, a path forward for emerging destinations.
The closing session of the summit highlighted the structural challenges of the sector: uncertain geopolitics, increased regulatory pressure, changing customer expectations, and shortage of skilled labor.
Le Middle-East, in particular, is establishing itself as an up-and-coming winter destination, but the Mediterranean sea maintains its place as the undisputed leader in summer cruising thanks to its cultural richness and its lifestyle.
If caution remains in order, optimism dominated : by placing innovation, sustainability and ease of use at the heart of its priorities, the yachting industry can face the future with confidence.
“At sea, we are guests in a world that is not ours.”, rightly recalled Bernard d'Alessandri, Secretary General of the Yacht Club de Monaco – a call for humility that is more relevant than ever.
The success of WYS has been made possible thanks to strategic partners like the company M3, a Monegasque firm specializing in marinas, and OMNIYAT, a luxury real estate developer based in Dubai.
"WYS 2025 has laid the foundations for a new dynamic in global yachting. The event has established itself as a catalyst for ideas, an accelerator of innovation, and a driver of sustainable transformation." Jose Marco Casellini, CEO of M3
Report by Patrick Koune
