A Look Back At Monaco Yacht Show 2026 — Rivergate Marina and Shipyard

The world’s largest on-water superyacht event, the Monaco Yacht Show 2026, was a resounding success, showcasing more than 118 superyachts valued at over US$5.9 billion – 50 of those vessels delivered in 2026.

Once again, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard attended as part of the Australian & South Pacific delegation, and was proud to host the annual Captains’ Lunch. This year’s venue was the iconic and extremely well-situated ‘Quai Des Artists’, with its incomparable views over Port Hercule, delectable cuisine and remarkably calm ambience.

12 guests attended, keeping the event intimate and relaxed.

“Monaco can be a hectic show, so for us to offer a relaxed atmosphere that enables people to take a breath for a few hours makes for a very enjoyable event,” commented Alex Binks, Rivergate’s Marketing Manager, who attended the show with Stephen Bay, Rivergate’s Director of International Business.

Also representing the South Pacific were Echo Yachts’ Chris Blackwell, Suzy Rayment Executive Director of APSA, Victor Serre, CEO at Tahiti Ocean.

Captain Brendan O’Shannassy, who has helmed vessels of the calibre of Octopus, Vava II, Ulysses, Amadea and Faith, was among the six Captains present. He said the lunch was a welcome break from the intensity of MYS and a much-appreciated opportunity to catch up with colleagues and swap stories.

“We know each other professionally, but for me at least, it is rare to strike a social rapport that quickly and laugh that well, and it’s not something I take for granted.”

While this level of personal connection is a vital component of attending the show, the imperative is to promote the South Pacific for its idyllic cruising itineraries and world-class refit and service yards.

“Cruising, maintenance/refit and unforgettable experiences are all available in our region,” Alex said. “Adventurous yacht owners are placing more priority on exploring the rest of the world outside of the Med and Caribbean. By showing that we have a whole network throughout Asia and the South Pacific, these incredibly beautiful and remote regions become accessible, which is really exciting.

*Rivergate Marina joins the Asia Pacific Stand at the 2026 Monaco Yacht Show, promoting the Asia-Pacific as one unified cruising region. (image credit: Australian Marine)*

“We are seeing more and more owners and captains considering journeys like the Northwest Passage, and we are keen to see that spirit of adventure extend to our region as well.”

The main topics of interest among Europe-based Captains were the varied itineraries and support on the ground, including opportunities for service and refit.

“Australia and Australian workmanship are highly regarded,” Alex stated. “The quality of work that our accomplished craftspeople and trades can achieve in water at marinas and out of water at shipyards is widely recognised. Distance is often seen as a challenge, although one well worth overcoming for the rewards of our destinations and the experience they offer.”

Among the superyachts on show, there were many outstanding and award-winning vessels, such as the much-anticipated and aptly-named 111-metre Leviathan, an Oceanco-built research vessel that is now part of the Inkfish fleet, and her support craft, 92.8-metre Draak, which was recently refit with professional dive centre and laboratories.

*Superyacht Leviathan (Image credit: YachChaterFleet)*

Wellness and longevity were also themes expressed in the new superyachts on show, such as 102-metre Lürssen Nixie, 74-metre Amels Synthesis, 52-metre Rossinavi Heed, and Sanlorenzo’s largest motor yacht to date, 73.4-metre Silver Fox. This was amplified in the concepts unveiled by brands including Benetti with its Clear Waves design, Majesty’s Next Generation series, and Feadship’s Hive, which were all centered around a philosophy of health and well-being.

As Alex observed, “This may actually lend itself to seeing more of these larger motor yachts in our part of the world, with owners wanting more out of their yachts and experiences – whether it be health and wellness, fishing and diving in the South Pacific, heading to remote islands – all of this is possible.”

The charter and brokerage fleet had a strong representation at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, proving that the global appetite for charter is steady and high-quality pre-owned vessels provide buyers with a faster, more practical alternative to lengthy new-build wait times.

Image Credits: Monaco Yacht Show and Australian Marine