Since 1886, the small Principality of Monaco organized yacht regattas at the request of owners staying in the Riviera towns of Monte-Carlo, Nice, Cannes, and Marseille. Monaco currently has 32,000 inhabitants composed of 118 different nationalities. Following English example, rowing regattas became fashionable and were such a success that rowing is still one of the favourite sports of Monaco residents. It is common to see sea Yoles and Outriggers cross the beautiful Bay of Monaco heading for nearby Italy. Rowing is taught in school and many people discover the pleasure of rowing year round, especially in the wintertime, thanks to the mild climate.

Gaston Delaplane: From 1905 to 1912, he was 8 times French Champion and 3 times European Champion.
John B. Kelly: In 1952, Kelly came to Monaco to train and get ready for the European Championships and he became the singles champion that year. He won the Diamond Sculls at Henley in 1947 and 1949.His father had been Olympic Champion in 1920.
Grace Kelly: John B. Kelly's sister, Grace came to Monaco in 1956; she married Prince Rainier and was a supporter of Société Nautique. The death of the princess saddened many people of Monaco.