Monaco and the sea, a strong bond.

Ever since Prince Albert I led several maritime expeditions, Monaco has maintained a strong connection to the sea and the ocean. In addition to its proximity to the sea and its renowned port, Monaco is committed to highlighting the marine world and its diversity.

The Oceanographic Museum

Founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco, the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is a crucial step in forging this connection between Monaco and the ocean floor.

Here are a few historical landmarks:

• 1889: Prince Albert I presented his scientific collections at the Paris World's Fair, which sparked his idea for a museum.
• 1899: The cornerstone of the building was laid on the Rock of Monaco.
• 1910: The museum was officially opened on March 29.

Nicknamed the “Navigator Prince,” Albert I envisioned this place as a palace entirely dedicated to art and science, with the aim of raising awareness about marine biodiversity.

Today, the museum demonstrates that everything connects us and that our history and our future are intimately linked. This institution invites visitors to explore the oceans, humanity, species, and much more…

There was a time when the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco was an active research laboratory that conducted scientific research on the marine world. However, there is no longer a laboratory within the museum; the researchers and microscopes have “moved out.” Monaco’s official scientific research is now managed by the Scientific Center of Monaco (CSM). Their laboratories are located in another building in the city, rather than in the museum. This center also has a team that specializes in polar biology.

The Museum's Current Role: The museum serves as a “bridge.” It does not conduct scientific research, but it does communicate scientific findings. It uses researchers' discoveries to create exhibits, raise public awareness about ocean conservation, and care for animals (such as sea turtles).

The Arrival of Princess Grace

The history of Monaco and the sea was marked above all by the arrival of Princess Grace. Grace Kelly arrived in Monaco on April 12, 1956, aboard the American ocean liner SS Constitution to marry Prince Rainier III:

• 9:30: The cruise ship Constitution appears off the coast of the Principality of Monaco.
• 10:26: Prince Rainier III went to meet his fiancée aboard his yacht, the Deo Juvante II. They met at sea before sailing together back to the port.
• 11:00: Grace Kelly stepped ashore, greeted by a jubilant crowd, cannon fire, and a shower of red and white carnations.

The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation

Their son, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, is committed to preserving this precious connection between the marine world and Monaco. From an early age, he has spoken of a new relationship with nature and the species with which we share our Earth. In order to raise awareness and reverse the trend that seeks to disrupt the planet’s ecological balance rather than preserve it, the Sovereign decided to take personal action by establishing the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, whose mission is to protect and advance the health of the planet for current and future generations.

To learn more about the projects, missions, and more, visit the foundation's website.

Monaco Yacht Show

This international event, founded by Maurice Cohen in 1991, has been held annually for 35 years as of 2026.

The idyllic setting of Port Hercule in Monaco, the venue for major international events such as the Monaco Grand Prix, is also the world’s premier destination for luxury yachting. At the Monaco Yacht Show, discover the discussions shaping the future of more responsible yachting and meet the industry’s leading experts to bring your plans for buying, chartering, or building a yacht to life.

Living in Port Hercule means being at the heart of the international events that take place in the Principality. The most sought-after residences in Port Hercule include the Monte-Carlo Star, the Panorama, the Caravelles, the Shangri-La, the Palais Heracles, and many more…

Explore all our properties in Port Hercule

Learn more about the Monaco Yacht Show

Sailboats

However, yachts are not the only vessels connecting the Principality to the sea. The history of sailing in Monaco is rooted in a long maritime tradition preserved by the Principality’s sovereigns and marked in particular by the founding of the Yacht Club de Monaco in 1953.

Sailing took root in Monaco in 1862 thanks to Prince Charles III, who encouraged the organization of the first regattas to make Monaco a showcase for yachting. These efforts continued from 1873 to 1889 under Prince Albert I, who acquired the schooner L’Hirondelle and undertook major oceanographic expeditions.

In the 20th century, following the founding of the Monaco Yacht Club, the Grande Semaine Internationale de la Voile was organized in 1954, cementing the Principality’s reputation as a sporting hub. Then, in 1987, Monaco became a stop on the Tour de France à la Voile for the first time.

Today, the club has more than 2,500 members and organizes events such as Monaco Classic Week, which has been held every September by the Yacht Club de Monaco since 1994. The event brings together vintage sailboats, motor yachts, and classic motorboats.

The Tuiga, an iconic sailboat

The Tuiga is the Principality’s most famous sailboat; it embodies a certain vision of classic yachting—a living heritage shaped by the sea, craftsmanship, and the passage of time.

Designed by William Fife III, this 28-meter sailboat was launched in 1909 and was purchased in 1995 by Prince Albert II, who gave it a new lease on life. It thus became the flagship of the Monaco Yacht Club and continues today to sail, compete in regattas, and represent the Principality on the major stages of classic yachting. Today, it is one of the last four 15-meter JI sailboats still in active service.

This yacht is particularly well-known for its numerous races and victories. It won the former Nioulargue, now known as Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez—thanks to its crew led by Pierre Casiraghi, the nephew of Prince Albert II, who carries on the family tradition. This year, at the 28th edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, the Tuiga triumphed in the “Tradition” category and won the overall title.

This special bond between Monaco and the marine world has continued to grow over the centuries and endures through time and history.

If you’re interested in purchasing a property in the Principality, contact our Monte-Carlo Sotheby’s International Realty office, and we’ll assist you with your search.

^{Published the 06/10/2026}