The Monaco Yacht Show 2024 is upon us, and it’s time for those with an eye for luxury yachts, cars and helicopters to prepare for the event of the year. But there’s more to it than “just” superyachts for sale and charter. It’s also a time to let loose and rub shoulders with fellow luxury travellers, socialites – maybe even a celebrity or two! Dates have been set for the 25th to the 28th of September, so if you haven’t booked yet you may need to exert more than a little influence to get VIP passes and accommodation.
Thinking of buying a yacht? It could be the signal that gets top yacht builders to sit up, take note, and smooth your path to an unforgettable experience this year. Notably, the most coveted passes are extended to VIP clients with a yacht-building project underway. If your eleventh-hour attempt fails, there’s always 2025 to plan for. The Monaco Yacht Show is always in the last week of September, and with the design, building, and fitting out of your very own yacht in progress, you’re sure to get royal treatment.
Whether you’re considering squeezing in a visit to say goodbye to Summer or are taking the long view and are planning for next year’s show, this article acts as your guide. Find out about the different types of passes you can get, the top places to stay, and the many things to see and do when you attend the world’s most prestigious yachting event.
Can anyone go to the Monaco Yacht Show?
The Monaco Yacht Show is a very exclusive event. In theory, anyone can get visitor passes, but the cost ensures that it’s only attended by society’s creme de la creme. VIP Sapphire Experience passes, on the other hand, are only granted to about 200 people out of an estimated 30,000 attendees. Here’s what you need to know:
Visitor passes
Regular visitor passes give you access to the exhibition areas and don’t include yacht tours, dockside access or official invitations to parties and events. The first day of the event is not open to people with visitor passes. Your attendance dates are from the 26th to the 28th of September 2024.
A one-day pass costs 600 Euros; a two-day pass costs 1020 Euros; and the full three days cost 1620 Euros. Saturday the 28th is only open to three-day pass holders and you can expect a less crowded experience on the day. However, don’t expect to get a pass at the gate, as you can only buy passes online.
Sapphire Experience Passes
Few things more clearly mark you as one of the yachting elite than being approved for a Monaco Yacht Show Sapphire Experience pass. It’s intended for yacht designers, buyers, and the upper echelon of charter customers.
To get a Sapphire pass, you must apply to the organisers of the Monaco Yacht Show in person, motivating why they should offer you VIP access. Alternatively, a superyacht company that sees you as a valuable customer may be able to arrange invitations.
A Sapphire Experience pass qualifies you for the ultimate in yacht show luxury. Yacht tours, parties, gala events and cocktail evenings on the world’s most luxurious yachts are all part of the excitement. Expect a full, individually tailored program packed with exclusive events.
Where to Stay For the Monaco Yacht Show
What could be more appropriate than to charter a yacht for your stay during the Monaco Yacht Show? Check where it will be berthed, what services and amenities are offered, and arrange for a little cruising during your stay.
Alternatively, Monaco’s best hotels offer their own array of sumptuous luxuries and will place you at the heart of the nightlife while still being conveniently close to the yacht show. To whet your appetite, we’ve chosen a few of the top options.
Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
One of the world’s most famous hotels, a stay here is an unforgettable experience all of its own. The decor is a unique blend of the classic and contemporary that reflects the building’s gracious Belle Époque origins. Panoramic bay views, superb service, and a convenient location near the world-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo combine to make this one of your top choices.
- Distance from airport: 34 km
- Approximate price per night: $600 to $1,300 (standard rooms)
Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
As renowned as the Hermitage, the Metropole features lavish suites, a penthouse, and standard rooms, all beautifully decorated in a tasteful combination of Mediterranean and antique styles. You’ll be near all the best attractions, including the Monaco Yacht Show.
- Distance from airport: 31.5 km
- Approximate price per night: Starting at $777
Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort
For something a little more modern with so many amenities that you hardly need to step out, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort is an excellent choice. Between your forays to the yacht show, lounge beside the artificial lagoon and enjoy an extravagant evening at the in-house casino.
- Distance from airport: 37 km
- Approximate price per night: $400 to $3,712
Events and activities during the Monaco Yacht Show
The yacht show itself is the main event, and seeing the world’s most gorgeous superyachts and sailing yachts is a thrill, even if you don’t have a Sapphire pass that allows you access to the dockside and the boats themselves. Shopping for ideas for your very own superyacht? This is your chance to scope out what’s available so that you can open negotiations with the world’s most acclaimed yacht designers. 2025 may yet see you arriving at the show as a VIP: courted, wined, dined, and invited to all the most prestigious events.
There’s also an Adventure Area featuring exciting, top-of-the-line watercraft like high-tech jet skis, submersibles, and tenders. Also on display are helicopters and some of the most luxurious cars the world has to offer – truly an unforgettable spectacle that will earn bragging rights amongst your peers.
You might also be inspired by some of the other exhibits that are less high-profile but innovative nonetheless. For example, the sustainability area is full of inspiring ideas that will help yacht owners to enjoy their luxuries while minimising environmental impacts. Perhaps you’ll see some concepts you’d like your own yacht to feature. While you’re looking at exhibits, take advantage of the opportunity to meet yacht designers – especially if you’re planning to become the proud owner of a new yacht in the near future.
If you’re among the fortunate few with contacts in the yachting industry or hold the much-coveted Sapphire pass, the social round puts you in touch with the yachting elite. Every night features invitation-only cocktail get-togethers or full-scale parties aboard yachts of every description. With the right contacts in your address book, there will be other off-programme social events to attend too. Private parties range from the super-elegant to let-your-hair-down soirees.
The Monaco Yacht Show offers something for every jetsetter to enjoy. Even if you aren’t part of the “in-group” you still won’t lack opportunities to mingle in Monaco. You can be sure of rubbing shoulders with yacht owners and designers at casinos, fine restaurants, and hotels while you indulge yourself to your heart’s content. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings as you make Monte-Carlo your playground.
Does the Monaco Yacht Show Have a Dress Code?
There’s no official dress code for the Monaco Yacht Show. All the same, there are norms to uphold, and we’re sure you’d like to put your best foot forward. In general, the unspoken dress code consists of smart casualwear with a nautical feel. For men, this generally means linen short pants or trousers paired with cotton shirts or golf shirts. Women generally opt for high-end smart casualwear with a tailored look. Having said that, jeans and a T-shirt are perfectly acceptable when strolling around admiring exhibits.
If you’re invited to step aboard a yacht for a Monaco Yacht Show party, check your invitation for the required dress code. In general, chinos and blazers are standard wear for men, while women tend toward more glamorous dresses or trouser ensembles. Remember that you will have to take your shoes off while on board, so choose hemlines that will work with bare feet.
The Monaco Yacht Show: Arrive in Style with AirX
Whether you’ve secured the coveted Sapphire pass, are visiting to get inspiration for your dream yacht, or just want to enjoy the ambience, a private jet is the ultimate way to travel.
AirX is a luxury private jet airline with a premium selection of charter jets, setting the tone for your stay in Monaco with a luxury travel experience with bespoke service and superb amenities.
You’ll arrive at Nice Airport refreshed and ready for your yacht show adventure. Now it’s just a matter of reaching your Monte-Carlo hotel while avoiding crowds and wait times. Our concierge service can arrange a private limo for your trip, ensuring uninterrupted luxury throughout your journey.
Wherever you may wander, from the Monaco Yacht Show to private islands and pristine shores, AirX gets you there in ultimate luxury. Contact us today to discuss your upcoming travel plans.
