On World Oceans Day, Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) provided an update on its year-round initiatives aimed at supporting the environmental transition within the yachting sector. Driven by the forward-looking vision of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, under the aegis of its 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting' approach, these actions are based on a simple conviction: the sector's future depends on concrete, measurable, and collective solutions. At the heart of its strategy is the SEA Index®, which has established itself as the benchmark tool for assessing and improving the environmental performance of yachts.
SEA Index® Expands Its Scope
Launched in 2020 by YCM and Credit Suisse (a UBS brand), the SEA Index® measures the CO2 emissions of yachts based on verified technical data. Certified by Lloyd's Register, results are expressed in a transparent rating system that facilitates performance comparisons between boats. In effect, the SEA Index® offers owners a reliable tool to identify areas for improvement and gradually reduce their carbon footprint.
In 2026, a bespoke air quality certification was launched with AtmoSud to assess nitrogen oxide (NOx) and fine particulate matter emissions from superyachts. Additionally, the SEA Index® continues to build an international network of committed stakeholders. New strategic partnerships have recently been established with the port of Marseille Fos, the Japan Marina & Beach Association, and port operator Edeis to promote and encourage the use of yachts with a lower environmental impact in ports and anchorage zones.
Facilities that Promote Energy Efficiency
YCM's environmental approach is evident throughout its own facilities and day-to-day operations. ISO 14001 certified since 2016, the Club has been using electricity from renewable sources since 2018. Among many systems integrated into the building to reduce its footprint are marine thermal energy for heating and air conditioning; photovoltaic panels; low energy LED lighting; and a grey water recycling system. In the YCM Marina, numerous initiatives also contribute to preserving the marine environment, such as charging stations for electric boats; wastewater recovery systems; Biohuts installed to support biodiversity; use of dynamic buoys to limit impact on the seabed; and a robot to hoover up floating waste.
Monaco Energy Boat Challenge: Innovation as a Catalyst for Change
As mobilising the younger generation is central to tackling environmental issues, the Club actively supports innovation through its Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (13th edition: 8 to 11 July 2026). Since its launch in 2014, this international event has served as an open-air laboratory with the sole aim of accelerating the energy transition in the maritime sector. Every year, students, universities, engineering colleges, and industry players descend on Monaco to compare solutions and test their prototypes on the sea in an environment that champions collective intelligence.
On World Oceans Day, Yacht Club de Monaco's actions are a reminder that the sector's transformation is already underway. From the development of the SEA Index® to the ongoing improvements to its infrastructure and its support for innovation, the Club is pursuing one over-riding objective: to unite the whole industry, ashore and at sea, behind building a more responsible yachting industry for future generations.
