If you happen to be in Monaco on a superyacht charter holiday or for any other reason between 9-11 July this summer, you might want to check out the second edition of the Solar 1 race, set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful yachts on display in the Principality of Monaco. Why not include this fantastic event in your luxury yacht charter itinerary and enjoy the great atmosphere and excitement of the races, as well as learn more about solar-powered boats and energy efficiency in the boating industry.

SOLAR 1 Race 2014 in the lovely Monaco yacht charter location @Franck TERLIN

For the second consecutive year, the Yacht Club de Monaco is expected to host this contest, destined for competitive solar-powered boats, designed and driven by students from international universities. The race will be attended by around 30 entrants from a dozen nationalities.

The race highlights a long-established maritime tradition of innovation and commitment by the Principality and its Yacht Club to be a key player in the environmental protection field. History is repeating itself with the Yacht Club’s President, Prince Albert II, who wants to encourage a new generation of groundbreaking boats that are more respectful of the marine environment.

SOLAR CUP hosted by the Yacht Club de Monaco @Franck Terlin

Sergei Dobroserdov, Director of Solar1 and the man who initiated the project, comments: “We at Solar1 love innovations and try to support them as much as we can. Last year we had a huge success with the first Solar1 Monte-Carlo Cup with 25 teams participating and almost 300 team members who came to Monaco from all over the world. Thanks to the Yacht Club de Monaco, we have the opportunity to continue this year and organise the latest in solar racing! Monaco is a pioneer in giving the new generation such an opportunity, while at the same time communicating the importance of renewable energy sources to preserve our planet.”

The three-day event will see these ‘green’ boats attend a slalom course, fleet race and one-on-one sprints. The boats are able to reach impressive speeds of up to 30 knots – run only by the sun, giving the impression of flying over the water.

SOLAR CUP @Franck Terlin

Bernard d’Alessandri, General Secretary of the Yacht Club de Monaco, says: “It seems to me essential that we encourage any initiative in favour of the future of our industry. This technology being developed by a new generation of engineers suggests it could soon be applied to leisure boats, including the biggest yachts. A promising message for the future…”