The 2024 Monaco Yacht Show left an indelible mark, underscoring the importance of sustainability in the yachting industry. As one of the most glamorous and prestigious yacht shows in the world, the MYS not only showcased the epitome of luxury but also led a pivotal conversation on how the superyacht industry is responding to environmental challenges. This year, sustainability took center stage, starting with an opening conference on September 25, which explored ways the industry can evolve while embracing eco-conscious practices.
A Focus on Sustainability
At the heart of this year’s show was the emphasis on reducing the environmental impact of yachting. The opening conference, moderated by yachting expert Justin Ratcliffe, brought together key figures in the industry, including Jean-Marc Bolinger, CEO of MB92 Group, Robert van Tol, Executive Director of the Water Revolution Foundation, and Giedo Loeff, Head of Research and Development at Feadship. Each of these speakers contributed insights into how yachting can transition towards a more sustainable future through innovative technologies and operational changes.
Among the key topics discussed were how older yachts could reduce their carbon footprint, and how eco-responsible practices on board can not only improve sustainability but also reduce operational costs. Jean-Marc Bolinger highlighted the challenges in decarbonizing the existing fleet and emphasized the dual benefit of increasing resale value while reducing environmental impact.
Innovations on Display
The 2024 edition also showcased groundbreaking innovations that could influence not just yachting but also other industries. For instance, Giedo Loeff of Feadship illustrated how the technological advancements in superyacht design and engineering are contributing to broader markets, emphasizing the importance of technology transfer for driving sustainability across industries.
Superyacht builders, such as those featured in the show, presented vessels that not only symbolize luxury but are also at the forefront of sustainability. Feadship's innovations in propulsion systems and the Water Revolution Foundation’s guidelines for eco-friendly onboard practices have become benchmarks for the industry.
Superyacht builders, such as those featured in the show, presented vessels that not only symbolize luxury but are also at the forefront of sustainability. Feadship's innovations in propulsion systems and the Water Revolution Foundation’s guidelines for eco-friendly onboard practices have become benchmarks for the industry.
Recognizing Industry Leaders
The Monaco Yacht Show 2024 wasn’t just about the latest in yacht design; it also celebrated individuals pushing boundaries. On the eve of the show, The Honours 2024 recognized several exceptional contributors to the superyacht world. Among the awardees was Frédéric Jousset, art philanthropist and founder of the Art Explora foundation. His visionary approach, including launching a yacht-turned-floating-museum, demonstrates how the worlds of art and yachting can intertwine to create meaningful cultural experiences(Monaco Yacht Show).
Jousset’s ArtExplorer yacht, now on a voyage through the Mediterranean, serves as a testament to his belief that art should be accessible to everyone. The project combines the elegance of yachting with the mission of democratizing the art world, offering immersive experiences and virtual reality exhibitions that engage visitors in ways traditional museums often cannot. His recognition at The Honours celebrates not just his contributions to art but also his innovative integration of cultural accessibility into the world of yachting(Monaco Yacht Show).
Jousset’s ArtExplorer yacht, now on a voyage through the Mediterranean, serves as a testament to his belief that art should be accessible to everyone. The project combines the elegance of yachting with the mission of democratizing the art world, offering immersive experiences and virtual reality exhibitions that engage visitors in ways traditional museums often cannot. His recognition at The Honours celebrates not just his contributions to art but also his innovative integration of cultural accessibility into the world of yachting(Monaco Yacht Show).
The Path Forward
As the curtains close on the Monaco Yacht Show 2024, it’s clear that the industry is moving in the right direction. From the adoption of stringent environmental regulations such as the IMO Tier III NOx standards to initiatives like the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA) Index and the Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI), the yachting world is embracing sustainability at its core.
The SEA Index, launched by Credit Suisse and the Yacht Club de Monaco, is proving to be a vital tool in measuring the environmental impact of yachts. It provides a clear insight into emissions and sustainability practices, pushing for transparency and accountability within the sector. Meanwhile, the Water Revolution Foundation’s efforts, including its taskforce for sustainable yacht design, continue to drive collaboration and innovation.
The Monaco Yacht Show 2024 highlighted not only the luxurious lifestyle associated with yachting but also the industry's dedication to evolving responsibly in the face of environmental challenges. With sustainability at the forefront, the show provided a platform for industry leaders to share solutions, recognize trailblazers, and set the stage for a future where luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist. As the industry continues to innovate and push the boundaries of design, the MYS has become a beacon of progress, showcasing that even the most opulent of industries can—and must—embrace a sustainable future.
This year’s show leaves a lasting impression: yachting can indeed be a force for good, contributing to the global movement towards environmental stewardship.
The SEA Index, launched by Credit Suisse and the Yacht Club de Monaco, is proving to be a vital tool in measuring the environmental impact of yachts. It provides a clear insight into emissions and sustainability practices, pushing for transparency and accountability within the sector. Meanwhile, the Water Revolution Foundation’s efforts, including its taskforce for sustainable yacht design, continue to drive collaboration and innovation.
The Monaco Yacht Show 2024 highlighted not only the luxurious lifestyle associated with yachting but also the industry's dedication to evolving responsibly in the face of environmental challenges. With sustainability at the forefront, the show provided a platform for industry leaders to share solutions, recognize trailblazers, and set the stage for a future where luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist. As the industry continues to innovate and push the boundaries of design, the MYS has become a beacon of progress, showcasing that even the most opulent of industries can—and must—embrace a sustainable future.
This year’s show leaves a lasting impression: yachting can indeed be a force for good, contributing to the global movement towards environmental stewardship.
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