Explora Journeys host Vanity Fair club

Last weekend, the famous and the fabulous descended on Monaco, the last bastion of decadent glamour. Fans of Formula 1 just had to be seen in this sublime enclave of the world’s most desirable real estate. The sun-dappled harbour reverberated to the roar of finely tuned engines and the popping of champagne corks, while super-yachts gathered along this glamorous coastline for the chance to be part of this spectacle of speed. 

Possibly the most eye-catching visitor was EXPLORA II, conveniently docked in the heart of Monaco's famous Port Hercule, close to the F1 Paddock. This strategic location, just 165 yards from the racetrack, across the natural harbour from the Tunnel exit and Nouvelle Chicane, ensured a prime vantage point throughout race week. 

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, marked the beginning of the FORMULA 1 TAG HEUER GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025 weekend with an exclusive edition of the Vanity Fair Club aboard their 922-guest ship which provided the ultimate catwalk.

This evening soiree aboard this seagoing sophisticate brought together distinguished guests and set the tone for a weekend that shared the spirit of celebration and collaboration. Long regarded as a cultural institution, the Vanity Fair Club has illuminated some of the world’s most iconic nights – and this evening was no exception.

As twilight settled over the Côte d’Azur, the Sky Bar aboard EXPLORA II transformed into an open-air stage of style. Hosted by Simone Marchetti, European Editorial Director of Vanity Fair and Editor-in-Chief of Vanity Fair Italia, and Anna Nash, President Explora Journeys, the glamorous event captured the spirit and spectacle of this legendary high-octane weekend.

Among the guests were Prince Alexandre Grimaldi, Flavio Briatore, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman MSC Group Cruise Division, Luca de Meo, CEO of Renault, Princess Alexandra De Hanovre and entrepreneur and social media personality Kevin Lütolf.

In a rare convergence of sport and storytelling, Formula 1 legends were welcomed onboard EXPLORA II throughout the weekend. Guests heard personal insights and behind-the-scenes stories from some of the sport’s most iconic figures, including David Coulthard, Sir Jackie Stewart, and Mika Häkkinen. These appearances were complemented by perspectives from representatives of the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, offering a deeper understanding of the sport’s future.

The onboard atmosphere came alive with interactive Formula 1-inspired experiences. Guests took the driver’s seat in a Race Simulator, featuring both VR and non-VR time trials, and competed for top rankings on a live leaderboard. Additional highlights included racing trivia competitions, themed entertainment venues, and a miniature onboard track that celebrated the spirit of competition.

The opulent experience of the race weekend was enhanced with a series of exclusive onboard retail exhibitions featuring Buccellati, Panerai, and Piaget. Guests were invited to explore rare and limited-edition collections in an intimate setting. Highlights included Buccellati’s Snake Collection and a pink sapphire parure valued at €988,000, available for private viewings; Panerai’s haute horlogerie complications, including a tourbillon and two perpetual calendars, paired with an immersive masterclass where guests could open and reassemble a Panerai movement; and Piaget’s limited-edition timepieces, alongside a live engraving experience. 

Explora Journeys' parent company, MSC Cruises, have a multi-year deal as a Formula 1 Global Partner. The much-anticipated 2026 Monaco Grand Prix is on 26 April and Explora Journeys will once again take pride of place for life in the fast lane.

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