Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup to take place this July

by Hayley Atkinson on 20 Mar 2014 A month after the opening its new building this June, the Yacht Club de Monaco will be the setting for the revolutionary Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup on 10-12 July 2014.

Long renowned for hosting spectacular events for more than 1300 members from 60 nationalities, the Yacht Club de Monaco will be breaking in its new Norman Foster designed clubhouse with one of the most innovative events of the year. Speaking of the developments, the Yacht Club de Monaco’s General Secretary Bernard d’Allesandri said: ‘With its new building, Yacht Club de Monaco is set to become the hub for all nautical activities in Monaco, so an event like this will be a great addition to our existing calendar… I am thrilled that it will attract many young people to Monaco from all over the world, as this new generation is clearly very involved and concerned about technical advances that will help safeguard our planet.’

Solar powered boats from all over the world will battle it out over two days in the first truly ‘green’ yachting event in Monaco. The Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup promises to deliver a fantastic display of skill and endurance using boats powered purely by the sun. Slalom, fleet and sprint races will take place in front of Port Hercules and in Larvotto Bay.

Among Solar1’s technical partners is Vripack, the professional yacht designers behind a new class of solar powered boats known as the V20. These boats will race at the Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup and will also be available to purchase with a custom branded design and pilot training. Marnix Hoekstra, Director of Vripack, speaks of the race trials Vripack organised last August: ‘It is incredible to see these boats fly across the water. The sea trials left us in no doubt that solar boats are capable and seaworthy enough for tough races. Understanding how they work is all part of the educational process we aim to integrate into this event.’

Just as Prince Albert I introduced the first ever powerboat race in 1904, Prince Albert II will launch the next generation of revolutionary boat racing at the Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup.

The Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup 2014 will include Slalom, Fleet and Sprint races plus a Solar Conference, Kids Solar Boat Model Race, Opening Ceremony and Prize Giving Ceremony. Further events will be announced in due course to complete a fun weekend of innovation and education.