Bookmark this if you’re boating into Monaco for the yacht show. The Principality has published special navigation rules for Monaco Yacht Show 2025, turning Port Hercule into a tightly managed fairway from 00:00 on Wednesday, 24 September until 18:30 on Saturday, 27 September.
The big picture: when the port is open, closed, and who gets in
There will be a full nightly shutdown: which means no vessel movements at all between 00:00 and 07:00 on show days. Think of Port Hercule as a red-light zone overnight.
By day access is by Badge-only. From 07:00 to 24:00, only boats with an official MYS identification badge may circulate inside the port. Expect checks at the entrances.
And the Speed limit inside the harbour will be a maximum 3 knots throughout the event. yes, even if you’re “just nipping across.”
Deadline for Getting the badge
Skippers who need in-harbour access must apply directly to the organiser, S.A.M. Monaco Yacht Show.
Phone: +377 93 10 41 70
Applications open on 18 August 2025 and the Final date to complete requests is 9 September 2025 (no late entries processed).
If you’re unsure whether your operation qualifies (service craft, logistics, etc.), the Harbour Master’s Office can advise on procedures and general port access during the show (+377 97 77 30 00).
You’ll feel the security on the water
The show runs heavy security. Expect bag checks at gates and vehicle screening around the quays. Route de la Piscine, the road flanking key pontoons, admits deliveries only before 09:30 and after 15:00, so time tender drops and service runs accordingly. The organiser may refuse entry to anyone declining checks, even with a valid pass.
Visiting the show? Know the hours before you cast off
Opening day (Wed 24 Sept): 10:00–18:30, invitation-only (Sapphire Experience and invited guests)
Thu 25 & Fri 26 Sept: 10:00–18:30 (open to all ticket holders).
Sat 27 Sept: 10:00–18:00 Passes are issued online; onboard visits are at the discretion of each yacht.
Skipper’s quick checklist
File your badge request early and keep the identification clearly visible. Plan movements outside the 00:00–07:00 blackout and build slack into schedules for security checks.
Hold 3 knots inside the basin; brief your. crew and contractors.
For non-show operations, consider off-port rendezvous or daytime shore-side handovers to avoid delays.
Bottom line is that during MYS week, Port Hercule runs on a simple rhythm, closed at night, badge-only by day, slow everywhere. Nail those three, meet the deadlines, and your show logistics should be smooth sailing.
