Monaco Yacht Show: Your Go-To Guide for 2025

Ever wondered what it’s really like to step into the world’s glitziest yacht show? The Monaco Yacht Show isn’t just for billionaires or boat geeks—you can get a front-row look at wild luxury, clever design, and new tech (even if your bank account says “maybe next year”).

Getting tickets is pretty straightforward, but knowing how to make the most of your day? That’s where the real gold is. You’ll want comfy shoes—trust me, Port Hercules is bigger than it looks. Make a plan for which piers to hit and the must-see exhibits, or you risk getting lost in a sea of shiny hulls.

If you’re on the fence about whether to go, keep in mind: the big bonus isn’t just gawking at jaw-dropping boats, but rubbing elbows with the folks who actually build, buy, and dream up the next wave of high-end yachting fun. From eco-friendly yachts to wild interior designs, you’ll see trends here before they drop anywhere else.

• Key Takeaways for First-Timers
• What Is the Monaco Yacht Show?
• Why Go? The Unique Perks
• Types of Yachts and Exhibits You'll See
• Step-by-Step Tips for Visiting

Key Takeaways for First-Timers

If this is your first time checking out the Monaco Yacht Show, knowing a few basics will save you stress (and probably a bunch of wandering around). This event happens every year in late September, right in Port Hercules—so picture rows of mega-yachts lined up next to street food stands and shiny exhibits.

• Wear comfortable shoes: The show covers over 500 meters of dock. That’s a lot of walking, especially when you’re stopping for photos every two minutes.
• Get your tickets online early: Prices go up as the show gets closer. In 2024, basic admission started at €500 for the full four days.
• Plan your visit: Download the official show app for real-time maps and schedules. You'll save yourself from missing the big reveals or special showcases.
• Bring ID: Security is tight (think airport-style checks). Don’t forget your passport or photo ID at the entrance.
• Time matters: The quietest times are mornings right when doors open—around 10:00 am. It gets crowded in the afternoon, especially on the Saturday when families pile in.

To give you an idea of just how much is packed in, here’s a quick look at the 2024 stats:

Bring a decent camera or make space on your phone—there’s a good chance you’ll spot a celebrity. The docks are open-air, but most yacht tours need you to sign up or get invited by brokers, so check with booths early on.

"Think of the Monaco Yacht Show as the world’s premiere shop window for large yachts and luxury lifestyle brands." — Boat International

Don’t be shy about asking questions, even if you feel new. Every stand is there to show off, and you won’t be the only one learning the ropes. Remember: this isn’t just about seeing boats, it’s about being part of the world’s biggest yacht party—for at least one day.

What Is the Monaco Yacht Show?

The Monaco Yacht Show is the biggest superyacht event in the world. It happens every September at Port Hercules, right in the heart of Monaco. Since it kicked off in 1991, the show has become the place where the most jaw-dropping yachts are first revealed to the public.

This isn’t just any boat display. We’re talking about over 120 superyachts, many longer than 50 meters (that’s more than half a football field). On top of that, you’ll see cutting-edge tech launches, wild interiors, and sometimes even helicopters parked on deck. Plus, around 600 industry brands—from shipbuilders and designers to cool gadgets—set up stands, giving you a look at the latest and greatest in the yacht world.

While big names and billionaire buyers often steal the headlines, anyone can buy a day ticket. That means you can see the newest launches, meet the people behind the boats, and get a taste of glamour without needing an invite to a secret afterparty.

• Location: Port Hercules, Monaco
• When: Usually the last week of September (in 2025, it’s set for September 24–27)
• Yachts: Over 120 from 25m to 100m+
• Exhibitors: About 600, ranging from builders and designers to brokerages

If you want to spot the latest yachting trends or find out how yacht life is evolving, the Monaco Yacht Show is the place to start. Think of it as an open-door pass to a world normally hidden behind closed gates.

Why Go? The Unique Perks

The Monaco Yacht Show is where luxury meets one-of-a-kind experiences. You don’t just look at boats—you step right onto jaw-dropping superyachts, walk through custom interiors, and see things you just can’t find anywhere else. Even if you’re not out to buy, there’s a lot to do and see.

What sets it apart? For starters, this is the only show worldwide that displays over 120 superyachts in one harbor, many making their global debut. You get hands-on with tech and design most folks only see in magazines. The organizers don’t just let anyone in—only 30,000 tickets are sold, keeping it a bit less hectic than your average trade fair.

• Meet the Makers: The designers, builders, and crew are right there. Ask questions, hear stories, maybe even get invited to a private tour if you’re curious and friendly.
• See What’s Next: Yachting trends start here. In 2024, almost 40% of the yachts featured green tech or hybrid propulsion, showing off where the industry’s going.
• Network (or People-Watch): Whether you’re a deal-maker, boat lover, or just like to people-watch, Monaco draws celebrities, industry insiders, and passionate fans alike. There’s always a pop-up party or chance to rub elbows at the dock.
• Gourmet Food, VIP Access: Even on a regular ticket, you’ll find gourmet snacks and drinks everywhere. Upgrade, and you can hit the Upper Deck Lounge, with Michelin-star bites and full-on pampering.

If you want to compare, here’s a quick look at how Monaco stacks up against other famous yacht shows:

If you’re looking for real access—whether you’re buying, dreaming, or just exploring—the Monaco Yacht Show is where you want to be. It’s not just an event; it's a peek inside a world that’s usually closed off. Bring a camera and comfy shoes. There’s a lot to take in, and you’ll want to remember it all.

Types of Yachts and Exhibits You'll See

If you think the Monaco Yacht Show is just row after row of the same kind of big boat, think again. The variety here is nuts—there’s everything from sleek speedsters to massive floating palaces, plus a whole market of marine gadgets and gear you can actually check out up close.

Some quick numbers to set the scene: In 2024, the show packed the harbor with over 100 superyachts, with most of them clocking in at over 40 meters long (that’s longer than a basketball court). About 40 yachts were making their world debut at last year’s show, so you aren’t just seeing reruns.

• Superyachts: These giants, often 60 meters or more, are basically luxury mansions on the water. Think helipads, infinity pools, cinemas, and spas. Last year’s largest was the 116-meter AHPO by Lürssen.
• Explorer Yachts: These are built for travel—icy Arctic trips, South Pacific remote islands, you name it. The Damen SeaXplorer 58 drew crowds for its built-in helicopter hangar and dive center.
• Sailing Yachts: For folks more into wind power than fuel, sailing yachts bring classic lines and serious tech. The Nautor Swan 108 and Perini Navi’s unique rigs always get attention.
• Tenders and Toys: Water slides, jet boards, mini-subs, sea bobs—if it floats or flies off a yacht, you’ll see it here. The toys alone are worth a lap of the tents.
• Green Innovations: Electric propulsion, hydrogen power, and solar panels aren’t hype—they’re front and center. Last year, Sunreef Yachts showed off their battery-powered catamaran.

But it’s not just boats on display. The exhibits spill into luxury car pop-ups (think Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin), fine art showrooms, and even private aviation. If you love high-tech gadgets, there’s a huge indoor section with navigation systems, 3D boat design demos, and virtual reality yacht tours.

The bottom line? If you’re into luxury, tech, or just want to see the biggest, boldest, and weirdest things that float, the Monaco Yacht Show will not disappoint. Snap pics, ask questions, and don’t be shy—builders love to show off what’s new and wild.

Step-by-Step Tips for Visiting

Planning your Monaco Yacht Show experience isn’t rocket science, but a few smart moves can make the whole thing way more fun and way less stressful. Here’s exactly how to tackle your big day:

1. Book your ticket early. General admission for the Monaco Yacht Show usually goes on sale in June, and passes often sell out, especially for weekend days. Grab your ticket online on the official site to avoid missing your chance.
2. Score a place to stay in Monaco itself if you can, since hotel rates climb fast. If not, look in nearby towns like Beausoleil or Cap-d’Ail and take the train or a taxi in—everything’s close and public transit is easy.
3. Start your day early. Gates open at 10am but there’s always a queue. Getting in right at opening means less crowding when checking out those stunning superyachts.
4. Download the event map and app. The show stretches over Port Hercules, packed with different zones: superyachts, tenders, luxury gear, and even a special sustainability area. The app helps you schedule talks, tours, and find food without wandering in circles.
5. Dress comfortably but smart. Sneakers are fine; stilettos not so much on wooden docks. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must—Monaco in September is sunny and steamy.
6. Keep your ID handy. Security is tight, and you might need to show your pass several times if you’re hopping between pavilions or want to board a yacht (many are appointment-only, so ask about tours when you enter).
7. Plan your food breaks. Insider tip: the food trucks just outside the main entrance offer great snacks without the Michelin price tag. If you want to hit a restaurant, book ahead—reservations fill up fast during the show.
8. Don’t skip the talks and demos. Designers, shipyards, and tech pros hold live panels about trends, design, and sustainability. You’ll spot industry VIPs and sometimes even celebrities interviewing on stage.
9. Bring a power bank. Your phone will be your map, your camera, and your e-ticket holder all day. Extra juice means zero panic.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the crowd stats from last year, just to give you a sense of how big this event is:

Insider tip: Use the lunch lull (usually 1 to 2:30pm) to sneak onto the biggest docks before crowds return. Also, be aware that Monaco has a no-fly drone policy during the event—leave your gadgets at home unless you have special clearance. If you need local transport, the port shuttle boat (just €2 per ride) is the fastest way to cross from one pier to the other.

Whether you’re going for networking or just for ogling the sheer size of these yachts, having a plan makes everything smoother. The Monaco Yacht Show isn’t just flashy—there’s a system to the madness!