In a world where luxury yachting continues to grow as an industry of sophistication and grandeur, the need for skilled professionals to support its diverse operations has never been more pressing. The Yacht Club de Monaco’s La Belle Classe Academy is at the forefront of addressing this demand. Established in 2015, the Academy is rapidly expanding its training programs to meet the evolving needs of the yachting industry, now offering a robust curriculum that includes the prestigious RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Level 1 and 2 Powerboat Handling courses. These courses are now available year-round, further enhancing the Academy’s reputation as a premier destination for yachting education.
Monaco: The Capital of Advanced Yachting
La Belle Classe Academy's mission is closely tied to the broader initiative of positioning Monaco as the "Capital of Advanced Yachting." This effort, led by the Yacht Club de Monaco, aims to solidify the Principality’s standing as a global hub for yachting expertise. Bernard d’Alessandri, the General Secretary of Yacht Club de Monaco, encapsulates this vision, stating, “We are proud to contribute to the professionalization of the yachting sector and in so doing reinforcing Monaco’s international reputation.”
The Academy’s growth is a testament to Monaco’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in the superyacht industry. By providing high-quality, certified training, it helps foster a new generation of yachting professionals who are well-equipped to uphold the standards of this luxury sector.
Graduates Ready to Set Sail
On 27th July 2024, 25 participants graduated from the Yachting Masterclass program, marking the culmination of an intensive three-month course designed to provide comprehensive knowledge of the superyacht industry. For these graduates, the future in yachting looks promising. Niamh Murphy, a yachting sales and charter assistant and recipient of a study grant, shared her success story: “Thanks to this course, I’ve already landed my first job in the yachting industry and can apply my knowledge.” Her experience underscores the effectiveness of the program in preparing participants for real-world applications.
The curriculum, crafted by seasoned professionals like Marcela de Kern Royer, Chris Andreason, and others, covers a wide range of topics essential to yachting. From propulsion systems to yacht classifications, insurance, and even yacht locations, the course is designed to be exhaustive. Céline Deissard, a Sales Director in the luxury sector, appreciated this thoroughness, stating, “I looked everywhere for a yachting course and it didn’t exist! I finally found this one and it’s perfect as it covers all topics from yachting vocab to propulsion systems, insurance, classifications and flags, yacht locations and owners, shipyards, etc.”
Yachting Masterclass: Broadening Access and Horizons
One of the standout features of the Yachting Masterclass is its accessibility. The course is open to the public, providing a unique opportunity to delve into the world of superyachts from a 360° perspective. This inclusivity is pivotal in demystifying the yachting sector, making it accessible to a broader audience, whether they are aspiring professionals or simply enthusiasts eager to learn.
Reinoud Bicker, a Yachting Branch Manager based in Portugal, found the course particularly valuable. “Being based in Portugal, it allowed me to broaden my knowledge of the sector without having to travel. My knowledge of superyachts came on in leaps and bounds and gave me confidence to achieve my goals as a broker,” he explained.
The Masterclass’s success lies in its collaboration with industry experts across various disciplines, ensuring that participants receive current and relevant insights. This holistic approach not only equips graduates with the necessary skills but also instills confidence in navigating the complexities of the yachting industry.
Youth Engagement through Yachting Summer Camps
Expanding its reach even further, La Belle Classe Academy is now offering Yachting Summer Camps for young people aged 16 to 22. These camps are designed to introduce the younger generation to the world of yachting through hands-on experience. Over a week, participants can earn navigation certificates, including coastal boat and jet ski licenses, and engage in practical workshops on first aid, knot-making, and meteorology.
These summer camps represent an invaluable opportunity for youth to gain early exposure to the yachting industry, potentially sparking a lifelong passion or career. The focus on practical skills and safety ensures that participants leave with both knowledge and confidence.
Upcoming Courses and Future Prospects
After a brief hiatus in August and September, La Belle Classe Academy will resume its courses on 30th September 2024, with a STCW Polar Code course specifically designed for officers and captains operating in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. This specialized training is part of the Academy’s commitment to offering a diverse range of programs that cater to the various needs of the yachting community.
With an average of 200 to 250 people trained each year, primarily between October and May, the Academy continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the yachting industry. The courses offered not only meet the high standards expected in this luxury sector but also contribute significantly to the global yachting workforce.
For more information about the courses available and to register, interested individuals can visit the Academy’s official website at labelleclasseacademy.com.
Through its dedication to education and professional development, Yacht Club de Monaco’s La Belle Classe Academy is reinforcing the Principality’s position as a leader in the yachting world. By expanding its offerings and making yachting education accessible to a wider audience, the Academy is helping to ensure that the future of the industry is in capable hands. Whether for seasoned professionals or newcomers to the field, the Yachting Masterclass and other courses provide the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the competitive world of superyachts.
