Monaco Energy Boat Challenge returns with 54 teams from 21 countries
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge has returned to the Yacht Club de Monaco, bringing together 54 teams from 21 countries to showcase the latest innovations in sustainable boating until 11 July.
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge is back at the Yacht Club de Monaco, bringing together 54 teams from 21 countries for its 13th edition as hundreds of young engineers showcase the latest innovations in sustainable maritime technology.
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Running until 11 July, the event has become a key international platform for developing cleaner boating solutions, connecting students, researchers and major industry players including Oceanco, Ferretti Group, Azimut | Benetti Group and Lürssen.
The programme got underway with the annual Job Forum, creating opportunities for students and recent graduates to meet leading companies in the maritime sector.
On Wednesday, teams will take part in the traditional E-Boat Rally before four days of racing, demonstrations, conferences and Tech Talks.
Competitors will go head-to-head in speed, endurance, slalom, manoeuvrability and autonomous navigation challenges across four categories: Energy Class, AI Class, SeaLab Class and Open Sea Xperience.
The event serves as a real-world testing ground, allowing new technologies to be assessed under identical conditions.
One of this year's highlights is the introduction of methanol-powered technology into the competition.
After being widely discussed during last year's conferences, methanol now joins electricity and hydrogen as one of the alternative energy solutions on display, with the University of Twente's SURGE Methanol Foiling Team presenting a methanol-electric hydrofoil boat.
Alongside the racing, two international conferences will explore the future of sustainable yachting.
The Advanced Yachting Technology Conference takes place on 9 July, followed by the Alternative Fuels Conference on 10 July, bringing together experts, researchers and industry leaders to discuss the next generation of marine energy solutions.
Several prizes will reward the most innovative projects, including the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation Sustainable Yachting Technology Award, worth €25,000, alongside awards recognising eco-design, innovation, communication and the best newcomer.
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge Village, located on the Jacques Boissy Esplanade and Lucciana Jetty, is open to the public free of charge from Thursday to Saturday, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the competing boats, meet the teams and watch the races up close.