Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) to support the development of SKYTOPIA Yacht Bay and strengthen Hong Kong’s appeal as a yachting destination.
The agreement provides a framework for cooperation on yacht club affiliation, international events and professional education. It follows a visit by an AAHK delegation to YCM during the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2026.
SKYTOPIA Yacht Bay is part of a planned waterfront development near Hong Kong International Airport. Proposals include approximately 500 berths for vessels up to 100 metres long, alongside a marine resort, waterfront leisure facilities and recreational attractions.
Under the agreement, the organisations will explore an affiliation between the future SKYTOPIA yacht club and YCM through La Belle Classe Destinations.
Certification framework
Established in 2011, the initiative connects yacht clubs and marinas committed to standards covering infrastructure, services, events and sustainable yachting.
Its certification framework assesses destinations against defined criteria while recognising their individual characteristics.
AAHK and YCM also plan to develop yacht tourism through nautical, superyacht, industry and waterfront events in Hong Kong and Monaco.
Training opportunities
Talent development and yachting education will form another strand, with training opportunities to be explored through YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy.
The collaboration is intended to draw on YCM’s expertise and international network to support professional standards, industry connections and the long-term development of Hong Kong’s yachting sector.
Founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier III and chaired by Prince Albert II since 1984, YCM has approximately 2,500 members representing 82 nationalities.
AAHK recently previewed its waterfront plans at Hong Kong’s inaugural Festival of Connoisseurs at AsiaWorld-Expo.
