The 2023 edition of this prestigious confrontation kept all its promises, as illustrated by exquisite dishes prepared by chefs with sturdy sea legs. In the setting provided by its training centre, ‘‘La Belle Classe Academy’’, dedicated to professionals in prestige yachting, Monaco’s Yacht Club joined up once again with Bluewater to ensure the success of this unique culinary contest supervised by Chef Joël Garault, ‘‘Président des Goûts et Saveurs’’, awarding a place of honour to gastronomy at sea.

Nine chefs deploying their talents on yachts of over 40m participated in the 2023 competition presided by Chef Yannick Alléno, holder of three stars in the Michelin Guide. Backed by their yacht owners and crews, contenders are required to concoct the finest dish from a mystery basket of ingredients that they only discover a few minutes before the start of the contest.

Comprised of three rounds lasting 40 minutes each, the defining feature of this competition is high performance focusing on imagination, flexibility and responsiveness. The organizers have also added an anti-waste requirement whereby all the ingredients contained in the basket must be used in order to avoid a penalty.

Marco Tognon (M/Y Planet Nine-73m) succeeded in unfurling a treasure trove of creativity, proposing a ‘‘Ceviche’’ of blue Brittany lobster, caviar and avocado mousse with Parmesan cheese, accompanied by Chantilly cream with vodka and a pod of vanilla. Yannick Alliéno said he was bowled over by the chefs’ performances: ‘‘This competition has been a whirlwind of emotions, a real show, and an exceptional experience. These chefs are capable of adapting to requirements in incredible ways, their technique is outstanding.’’

MONACO, CAPITAL OF LUXURY YACHTING

This event highlighting the best of gastronomy and prestige yachting is held in the training centre, ‘‘La Belle Classe Academy’’. ‘‘This prestigious event attracts professionals, but also the general public,’’ says Bernard d’Alessandri, General Secretary of the Yacht Club de Monaco. ‘‘It allows another aspect of professions in the world of yachting to be unveiled.’’

To end this outstanding vintage, a gala dinner brought together guests and jury members including a yacht owner, Susana Perdiguero De Segovia, for the first time.