The Monaco Yacht Show 2025 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 – expect another exciting event of mingling with like-minded people and the latest offerings from the world of yacht life. Dates have been set for the 24th to the 27th 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 2026 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 crème de la crème. 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. You will be able to choose your pass for 1 to 3 days, from Thursday, September 25 to Saturday, September 27. The opening day, Wednesday, September 24, will be by invitation only.
A one-day pass costs 690 Euros; a two-day pass costs 1170 Euros; and the full three days costs 1860 Euros. Saturday the 27th 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: $575 to $1,600 (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 $746 for 2 people
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Opened in 1864, this hotel is a testament to the old-world charm and elegance of Monaco. Located on the famous Place du Casino, it is the crowning jewel of the area’s hospitality scene. Enjoy showings at the marina, savour Michelin-starred dining at Le Louis XV or relax with a treatment at Thermes Marins spa.
- Distance from airport: 32 km
- Approximate price per night: $850 to $7,500
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 – expanded for 2025 – featuring exciting, top-of-the-line watercraft like high-tech jet skis, submersibles, and tenders. New this year are off-road vehicles and motorcycles, adding to an already impressive lineup that includes helicopters and some of the world’s most luxurious cars. It’s a high-octane showcase that promises serious bragging rights.
This year, the Sustainability Hub has also been expanded on, with the newly introduced Blue Wake initiative, which highlights MYS’s commitment to more eco-friendly yachting. The Hub is full of inspiring ideas and emerging technologies 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 at the immersive Yacht Design & Innovation Hub – 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, with no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in the elegance of Monaco. Whether dining at fine restaurants, relaxing at luxury hotels, or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Monte-Carlo, you’ll find yourself surrounded by those who appreciate the finer things.
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 to Nice is the ultimate way to travel to the Monaco Yacht Show.
Choose from AirX’s premium selection of private charter jets to set the tone for your stay in Monaco – an unmatched 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 Nice to private islands and pristine shores, AirX gets you there in ultimate luxury. Contact us today to discuss your upcoming travel plans.
