Monaco Grand Prix From the Deck of a Superyacht | Life onboard Coral Ocean with Ahoy Club
Have you ever wished to feel like royalty?
That’s exactly how I felt walking onto Coral OCEAN in Antibes this past week. Arriving in style through two security gates, my Toyota Prius Uber driver was a little in awe of what awaited me - as was I.
Upon arriving at the dock, the entire crew of 25 were lined up from the top of the stairs to the dock in their freshly pressed uniforms. The deck crew were quick to take my suitcase from my dazed driver whilst I climbed the stairs as was greeted by everyone individually, the interior girls offering a fresh towel, big smiles and a refreshing juice.
I scampered up the stairs, a little overwhelmed at the hospitality, to await the Maloufs on the owner’s deck. Where I watched a rather more elegant repeat of my experience. They greeted everyone by name, enquiring about their kids or holidays like old friends.
Thus began one of the most incredible weeks of my life, living on megayacht CORAL OCEAN for the 80th Monaco Grand Prix Ahoy Club Experience.
Alrighty, gather round as I tell you the tale…
Cruising into the Monaco berth was an experience, gliding into port before slipping into our spot was amazing work by Captain Will. We were centred on the T-jetty with view of Pitt Lane along with both sides of grandstand. What a day!
After eating our weight in sumptuous fare such as crispy grilled John Dory with white wine sauce accompanied by roasted courgettes and Mediterranean fried rice. I slowly wandered down to the guest cabins on the boat deck. Whilst it might be tempting to fall asleep on the plush white carpets, downstairs is home to 4 of the 6 cabins on board. All king cabins with one converting into a twin.
I was lucky to start the journey in the Octopus room (they’re all named after sea creatures), the lighting was muted, the bed plush and the shower piping hot. Coming with Australian brand IKOU amenities, I was smelling like a citrus dream. Not to mention Parlux hairdryers and GHD straighteners! Girls, you get me when I say this was a game changer.
Upon waking the next day, I trundled up to the Owner’s aft in search of much needed caffeine where I was greeted with the bright-eyed interior team who took my breakfast order and made me the best coffee ever.
Each day was a repeat of this, every time I left my cabin it was back to being perfect - like magic!
Upon waking the next day, I trundled up to the Owner’s aft in search of much needed caffeine where I was greeted with the bright-eyed interior team who took my breakfast order and made me the best coffee ever.
Each day was a repeat of this, every time I left my cabin it was back to being perfect - like magic!
Finally, we hit game day, the 80th Monaco Grand Prix! The yacht was a hive of activity, everyone working seamlessly together to pull off the event of the season.
Guests began streaming in from 12pm, eager to experience the Ahoy Club hospitality. Guests making their way to CORAL OCEAN were first greeted by our deck team, dressed to impress in their racing uniforms, their shoes were then stored, and tickets given before walking directly onto the passerelle.
There they were given cold towels and a crisp glass of champagne to kick start the day. The décor was racing themed with red roses in tyres, a gigantic photo moment arch and checkered tablecloths. Following the beat to the sundeck, the music was pumping with our local legend Sam Weiss supplying the tunes and taking us into the night with his amazing sax skills.
The incredible chefs grilled on the deck side teppanyaki grill dishing up platters of high end fare such as steaks, fish and salads.
Throughout the day we had some big names join on board such as Emily in Paris actor Lucien Laviscount and the wolf of wall street himself Jordan Belfort.
Once the horns blew harbour wide signalling the end of the race the festivities really kicked off. Resident Jimmyz DJ Ollie brought the crowd into the night. What followed was a blur of bubbles, dancing and sparkling bottle service.
What an incredible event!
I don’t know about you but I’m already planning the 2024 event and you better be there or be square because it’s already shaping up to be a rager like only Ahoy Club can throw.
Until next time!
Written by
Chiara M.
Senior Guest Experience Manager
