The Yacht Club de Monaco will soon have a superb new venue on Quai Louis II in Port Hercules. The location of the building, close to some of the finest Monaco luxury real estate, looks set to maximise the waterfront’s potential as both a tourist and business destination. We take a closer look at this inspirational project, shortly due for completion.
The work to redevelop Port Hercules and create a new venue for the Monaco Yacht Club first started in the summer of 2008, generating huge anticipation in the Principality and all over the world. According to the project’s renowned architect Lord Norman Foster, the new Yacht Club has been designed “as a reflection of the excellence that Monaco excudes”. The building’s sleek lines resemble a luxury liner at sea, and whilst clearly modern in style, remain in keeping with their natural surroundings. Environmental concerns have also been taken in to account with the building abiding by all HQE (Haute Qualité Environnementale) standards limiting energy and water usage as well as noise pollution.
Those in the market for Monaco luxury real estate are sure to be drawn to the new venue. A swimming pool, ballroom, fitness room and exhibition hall are just some of the features on offer with a large spiral staircase linking the various spaces. The second floor of the building will be for the exclusive use of yacht club members, with the aim of providing an inviting meeting place for owners and yachting professionals. The venue will also house the rowing club, naval museum and sailing school.
Development work has not been limited just to the yacht club venue, however. The port will also benefit with improved access and an increased number of berths. To date, Monaco has only been able to accommodate cruise ships measuring less than 300m in length; however now the port can ready itself to welcome the world’s largest liners.
The annual Grand Prix has interrupted work on the Monaco Yacht Club
Clients with an apartment in Monaco will have noticed that work on the project has halted temporarily during May each year to make way for the Formula 1 Grand Prix which passes right next to the construction site. Fortunately, the building works are now almost complete and are set for their grand opening at the club’s traditional summer cocktail party in 2014.
The future certainly looks bright for Port Hercules and for those looking for a house or apartment in Monaco one thing is certain; the new Yacht Club will make a positive contribution to the overall dynamism and prestige of the Principality.
