The 13th edition of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge will return from July 8th to 11th at the prestigious Yacht Club de Monaco, bringing together 43 teams representing 21 nationalities from Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa. Over four days of on-water trials and technical exchange, students, engineers and industry professionals will test cutting-edge propulsion concepts aimed at accelerating the energy transition in yachting.
Supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, UBS, BMW and SBM Offshore, the event continues to position Monaco as a living laboratory for sustainable marine innovation. More than 1,000 students and young engineers are expected to participate, benefiting from direct interaction with shipyards, technology developers and maritime institutions.
This year’s competition is divided into four categories. The AI Class features 11 teams developing fully autonomous boats equipped with advanced sensors and navigation algorithms. The Energy Class, the largest segment with 26 teams, uses a standardized hull to focus exclusively on propulsion efficiency and energy management strategies. The SeaLab Class provides six teams with the freedom to experiment with unconventional solutions, including a methanol-powered prototype. Finally, the Open Sea Class showcases CE-certified zero-emission production boats, bridging the gap between prototype innovation and commercial application.
Technological diversity remains a defining feature of the challenge. Of the registered entries, 33 prototypes rely on battery-electric systems, nine incorporate hydrogen technologies, one runs on methanol, and nine are equipped with foils to enhance efficiency through reduced drag.
Beyond racing, Tech Talks and a dedicated Job Forum will create opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing, reinforcing the event’s role as both a competitive arena and a career platform.
As sustainable propulsion becomes increasingly central to the future of yachting, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge once again underscores Monaco’s commitment to shaping the boats—and engineers—of tomorrow.
