The Monaco Yacht Show is “on course” to take place in September, the organisers said on Monday, May 25. The 30th edition is due to run from Wednesday, September 23 until Saturday, September 26, at Port Hercule, and will be run on a ’not-for-profit’ basis.

The event will be much smaller than in previous years, reflecting the fact that many of the usual exhibitors have said they will not be present.

In a statement, Informa, the organiser of the show said: “The impact of the COVID-19 epidemic is being felt all over the world and at all levels; protecting the planet’s population has become the absolute priority.

“This unprecedented situation is affecting national economies, with notable repercussions on the yachting industry. Now, more than ever, the MYS must shoulder its responsibility to support the industry and all of the business sectors that make it possible to organise the MYS.

“The organisers are fully aware of the strategic importance of the MYS to the companies that participate each year – for growing their business, sales and marketing.”

Informa added that the MYS offers the perfect setting for establishing direct relations based on trust. Future buyers can visit several yachts all in one day, compare them, meet the designers, and discuss with brokers and shipyards. Such a totally immersive experience is as essential as it can be decisive when considering the purchase or construction of a superyacht.

“Like everyone else, the MYS is keeping a close eye on how the pandemic is evolving, with the hope of a healthier and more stable situation around the globe in coming months.

“In order to protect the health of participants at the MYS, we will implement directives issued by the government of Monaco and the World Health Organisation (WHO) that reflect how the pandemic has evolved by September 2020.”

Choosing its words carefully, Informa said that the 2020 Monaco Yacht Show “will probably be one of the first occasions in the year for bringing together players in the luxury yachting industry, for meeting private clients to discuss current and future market trends and, in short, for sharing the authentic superyachting experience that only a visit to a yacht show can offer.”

Earlier in the month two trade organisations – one representing Superyacht builders and the other charter operators – said they would not be exhibiting at the show, citing health concerns and also the escalating cost of participating in the world’s number-one superyacht event.

PHOTO: MYS