Superyacht Chef Competition: Thursday 2 April 2026

Through its training centre, La Belle Classe Academy, the Yacht Club de Monaco will host a new edition of the Superyacht Chef Competition on Thursday, 2 April 2026, organised with the support of Bluewater. This culinary event highlights the excellence and singularity of the profession of onboard chef aboard superyachts — a role that remains largely unfamiliar to the general public. 
Presided over by Philippe Etchebest, Meilleur Ouvrier de France and two-Michelin-starred chef, the jury for this 7th edition has now been unveiled. It reflects the high standards and evolving reality of contemporary gastronomy, at the crossroads of creativity, technical mastery and constant adaptability. 
"This event showcases chefs who can excel in a challenging, mobile and international setting," explains Bernard d’Alessandri, the Yacht Club de Monaco's Managing Director and Secretary General. "This ambition is reflected above all in the choice of a jury that truly understands the realities of the profession." 
 
Judging with first-hand expertise 

Chaired by Chef Philippe Etchebest, the 2026 jury operates within a rigorous and clearly defined framework. The competition is held under the supervision of Chef Philippe Joannès, Meilleur Ouvrier de France and culinary consultant to the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM), and Chef Simon Ganache, the YCM's Head of Events. Chef Frédéric Ramos, President of the Monaco Goût & Saveurs association, provides active support. Beyond technical mastery, the jury assesses each candidate’s ability to adapt, manage operational constraints, and demonstrate a deep understanding of onboard service requirements, in an environment where every detail matters. 
 
Complementary profiles rooted in the realities of the profession 

Alongside Philippe Etchebest, the 2026 jury comprises chefs with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. 
 
Chef Benjamin Ferrand, winner of the 2025 edition; 
Chef Carlo Cracco, an iconic figure in Italian gastronomy; 
Chef Duncan Biggs, co-founder of Ocean Waves Monaco and superyacht chef. 
Chef Jenny Maltese, Venezuelan television host committed to promoting Latin American cuisines 
Chef Marcel Ravin, two-Michelin-starred chef at Blue Bay restaurant in Monaco. 
Chef Tim Mälzer, German chef, restaurateur and television host (subject to confirmation). 
 
A demanding format designed for real-life conditions 

The Superyacht Chef Competition is built around a short, immersive format designed to reveal chefs’ ingenuity and adaptability in real-life conditions. A mystery ingredient is unveiled just moments before the challenge begins, with the obligation to use all products provided, under penalty for food waste. 
 
Transmission at the heart of the event 

A central pillar of the event, La Belle Classe Academy supports the Superyacht Chef Competition in its mission to promote careers in gastronomy and onboard service. Through its training programmes — notably The Art of Service on Board — the YCM’s training centre actively contributes to the professionalisation and attractiveness of these careers. 
The 2026 edition will also involve students from the Monaco Hospitality School, who will take part in the smooth running of the competition through an immersive, hands-on experience, working alongside chefs currently active in the profession. 
 
Two key moments ahead of the competition 

On 12th March 2026, Yacht Club de Monaco will host the Battle des Chefs, an event initiated by Chef Philippe Joannès. This culinary encounter will build momentum for the competition and encourage networking among professionals in an atmosphere of sharing and excellence. On Wednesday 1st April 2026, the Dîner des Grands Chefs will bring together the jury members on the eve of the 7th Superyacht Chef Competition.