One of Monaco’s signature world events is its annual F1 (Formula One) race, which this year takes place on Sunday, May 25. In official language, F1 is is the highest class of international racing for open-wheel single-seater formula racing cars sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile. In less daunting words, it essentially consists of a series of races by the world’s fastest regulated road-course racing cars. It’s typically held in glittering cities, where the race runs through a narrow course of streets. Monaco glitters most of all.
And this year, Windstar, whose Wind Surf times its two-day weekend visit to Monaco around the 2025 Grand Prix (it’s the May 20 sailing from Barcelona to Rome), is offering a limited number of staterooms that can watch the event from the comfort of the yacht.
What do you need to know about the Prix du Monde of Monaco? Read on.
What Is the Prix du Monde of Monaco?
Referred to as the pinnacle of motor racing, the Formula One series attracts millions of fans. It’s the highest class of international auto racing, consisting of 22 cars that compete in 19 Grand Prix races across the globe. Every year at the end of May, renowned racers from around the world gather to race across 78 laps of winding streets in Monaco.
The Prix du Monde of Monaco is one of the most prestigious motor racing events in the world. It’s held annually on the Circuit de Monaco, a race track that stretches across the neighborhoods of Monte Carlo and La Condamine. Also known as the “Monte Carlo,” this track spans 3.337 kilometers, which is slightly over two miles. While it’s the shortest Grand Prix in terms of distance, the course is one of the most challenging in Formula One. It takes extreme skill and precision to maneuver corners and tunnels at speeds up to 200 miles per hour.
The Circuit de Monaco is iconic for taking place on twisted and narrow city streets. The surrounding area quickly fills up with celebrities, raving fans and even the Royal family of Monaco to witness the race. The Prix du Monde of Monaco weekend is a massive celebration that spans three days. Monaco is a country with a population of just over 30,000 people — in other words, an area roughly three times the size of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., must accommodate hundreds of thousands more for the Grand Prix. This transformation usually takes nearly two months.
What’s the History of the Prix du Monde of Monaco?
The Grand Prix didn’t start as the glamorous event we know it as today. The first official motor race across the streets of Monaco was planned in 1929 by Antony Noghes, who wanted to compete with fellow members of the Automobile Club de Monaco. There were no race tracks at the time, so they took to the roads. William Grover-Williams was the Prix’s first champion, driving a dark green Bugatti. Several more races took place on the streets of Monaco over the years, and in 1950, it was included in the first Formula One World Championship. The Monaco Grand Prix has been a staple of the F1 series ever since.
When it comes to the track’s layout, only a few changes have occurred over the years. That said, some adjustments have been made for safety reasons. Before 1969, almost nothing was standing between the race track and the fans and neighborhood around it. Today, the race track is outfitted with safety measures — 13 miles of safety rails, 0.621 miles of barriers, 215,278 square feet of wire netting and a fire extinguisher for every 50 feet of the race track. Accidents can happen on the narrow raceway, so these precautions protect the people and structures surrounding the course.
As far as surrounding observation points go, Rainier III Nautical Stadium is the one to beat. It’s stood next to the track since 1949, and is the subject of many iconic images taken during the race. The swimming pool area was modified in the early 70s to improve the racing area in front of the stadium. This structure houses fans and has remained an important symbol of the Monaco Grand Prix throughout history.
The Prix du Monde of Monaco is extremely challenging, and every Formula One driver wants to win. There’s a rich history of champions, some of who have won more than once. As a well-known example, British driver Graham Hill was the first to win five times from 1963 to 1969. His record-setting streak earned him the nickname, “Mr. Monaco.” This record would eventually be broken in 1993 by Ayrton Senna from Brazil, with his sixth win.
Over nearly 100 years, the Monte Carlo has become the ultimate test for the most elite drivers in F1 and remains one of the world’s most famous Grand Prix locations.
Why Go to the Prix du Monde of Monaco?
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most exhilarating F1 experiences. The difficulty level of the course makes an exciting race every season, and it’s a spectacle to behold while being surrounded by the breathtaking coastal village of the French Riviera. Whether you’re an avid F1 fan or a traveler passing through, this event is one of those ultimate bucket list items. There’s simply nothing like it.
Let Windstar Cruises Take You There
The Prix du Monde of Monaco is a highly anticipated event that attracts fans and travelers from across the globe. The electric energy of race day, surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of Monaco, is unbelievable.
In 2025, Windstar offers the Prix du Monde of Monaco package, available to limited guests that features onboard perks and great seats at the race itself. Itincludes:
• Prix du Monde themed gift package with program ticket holder, ear plugs, cap, high-definition binoculars, and seat cushion
• Wind Surf’s guest speaker on the May 20 voyage is a Formula One racing expert. He’ll provide behind-the-scenes insights and commentary on the race itself.
• You’ll be seated at the Prix du Monde of Monaco’s Section K seats for Saturday’s time trials and Sunday’s final (these are higher seats — not benches — with wonderful views).
• Special Prix du Monde themed cocktail reception and dinner on board.
After the race, the adventure continues across the unique small ports of the Mediterranean. Stroll along the streets of Europe, lounge on the beach, sip wine at an Italian cafe or shop from first-class boutiques
Editor’s Note: “FORMULA 1 and F1 are registered trademarks of Formula One Licensing BV. The use of these marks does not and is not intended to create any affiliation, connection or association with Formula One Licensing BV.”
