Darwin has been selected to host the first-ever Asia-Pacific Qualifier of the world-renowned Monaco Energy Boat Challenge - the first time the event has been held outside Europe.
In 2027, university teams from across the Asia-Pacific will design, build and race next-generation clean-energy vessels on Darwin Harbour, putting the Territory on the world stage for maritime innovation.
The event will showcase Darwin globally, backing local jobs, advanced manufacturing and stronger ties across our fastest-growing markets.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has landed a major coup for the Territory, partnering with Big Blue Ventures APAC and the Yacht Club de Monaco to bring the prestigious Challenge to Darwin Harbour in September 2027. The Challenge is a drawcard event, attracting university teams from more than 20 nations to Monaco each year. Its new World Series now brings the competition to the regions through qualifying events like Darwin, with winners going on to the World Final in Monaco.
Darwin's harbour, tropical climate and operating conditions make it an ideal real-world proving ground for clean-energy vessels built for deployment across the region. Up to 10 university teams are expected to compete over four to five days, with the winner earning a place at the World Final in Monaco.
Broadcast to a global audience, the event will showcase Darwin Harbour, the Territory lifestyle and the region's growing role in innovation and maritime technology, while connecting students with industry, researchers and investors.
Minister for Advanced Manufacturing, Robyn Cahill, said the event was a major win for the Territory.
"This is a significant milestone, with Darwin becoming the first Australian city - and the first city outside Europe - to host a Monaco Energy Boat Challenge qualifier.
"This is more than an event. It's a chance to grow advanced manufacturing in the marine and clean-energy sectors, attract new investment and deepen our partnerships with universities and industry right across the Asia-Pacific."
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the event would draw visitors from across the region in a boost for local operators.
"These kinds of events are a big boost for our tourism and hospitality operators, as teams and support crews fill our hotels, pubs, and tour groups along the coastline and throughout the Top End."
"They also put us on the map, as we continue to show the world that the Northern Territory is absolutely one-of-a-kind."
Big Blue Ventures spokesperson Suzie Celotti said Darwin was a natural home for the event.
"Our harbour, our climate and our proximity to the world's fastest-growing maritime markets make Darwin a natural proving ground for the technologies that will shape the future of marine transport and energy. We want the world's best engineers and innovators competing here, testing here, and ultimately building here."
