MONTE CARLO
India is emerging as an important partner in Monaco’s efforts to promote sustainable yachting and marine innovation, according to Bernard d’Alessandri, General Secretary of the Yacht Club de Monaco.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 13th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, d’Alessandri praised India’s growing participation in the sector, highlighting the performance of Indian team Sea Sakthi as evidence of the country’s potential in sustainable marine technologies.
He said India’s rapid development presents a unique opportunity to build modern marina infrastructure and adopt next-generation boats without the limitations of older systems. “You can start with a white page, and it’s much easier to start in a good way,” he remarked.
D’Alessandri noted that India was among the first countries to participate in the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, underscoring the importance of collaboration as the maritime industry shifts toward cleaner technologies.
He also stressed that Monaco’s environmentally sensitive Mediterranean coastline makes sustainable boating essential, adding that partnerships with countries like India can help accelerate innovation.
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, now in its 13th edition, brought together 54 teams from around the world and serves as a global platform for students, engineers, startups and industry leaders to develop low-emission marine technologies.
Discussing future propulsion systems, d’Alessandri said the marine sector would likely require a combination of hydrogen, electric propulsion and alternative fuels rather than relying on a single solution, similar to the evolution of the automobile industry.
He added that sustainable transformation must extend beyond boats to include shipyards, marinas and the wider maritime ecosystem.
With India expanding investments in green energy and clean mobility, d’Alessandri said its early engagement in international marine innovation initiatives positions the country to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of sustainable yachting and environmentally responsible maritime development.