In Monaco, Teens Shell Out 5 an Hour for Driving Lessons in a Porsche 911

In Monaco, Teens Shell Out 5 an Hour for Driving Lessons in a Porsche 911
In Monaco, Teens Shell Out 5 an Hour for Driving Lessons in a Porsche 911

Luxury Driving Lessons in Monaco: A Unique Approach to Driver Education

In the opulent microstate of Monaco, known for its yacht-filled harbor and luxury vehicles, the latest trend transcends mere vehicle ownership—it’s now permeating the realm of driving lessons. Monaco Bonne Conduite, a prestigious driving school based in the heart of the principality, has recently introduced driving lessons featuring the iconic Porsche 911 Carrera, positioning itself as a forward-thinking institution amidst an extravagant lifestyle.

Founded by Paul Croesi, Monaco Bonne Conduite commenced offering these high-performance driving lessons on March 31, 2023. Croesi emphasizes that this initiative is more than just a novelty; it addresses a crucial facet of driver preparedness in a region where many new drivers often transition to vehicles with significant power after passing their tests. “Many students, after obtaining their licenses, approach me looking for advice on how to handle high-powered cars,” Croesi noted in an interview with Ouest France. He explained that many of these aspiring drivers are accustomed to low-powered vehicles, only to find themselves behind the wheel of cars boasting horsepower figures that can exceed 600 or 700.

Monaco’s streets are no stranger to top-tier automobiles. Young drivers, often the product of elite private educational institutions, frequently find themselves trading their modest vehicles for high-performance machines, a phenomenon that underscores the surreal yet commonplace nature of luxury living within the principality. In this context, offering lessons in a Porsche becomes less about indulgence and more an acknowledgment of reality.

The driving school’s curriculum focuses on more than passing a driving test. Croesi insists on educating his students about the intricacies of controlling powerful vehicles safely and responsibly. For a fee of €159 per hour—nearly three times the standard lesson rate—students not only gain access to the renowned vehicle but also practical knowledge on navigating its significant power. The awareness of how to control a vehicle capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under four seconds is a pivotal part of the experience.

Louise, a seventeen-year-old student currently on her fourth lesson, expressed her enthusiasm stating, “Driving a Porsche is very different from driving a normal car. We see them everywhere, but being behind the wheel is an entirely different experience. It’s incredibly enjoyable.” Her sentiments reflect a broader sentiment among the youth in Monaco, revealing a blend of excitement and responsibility that comes with driving such high-performance vehicles.

As Monaco continues to be characterized by its extravagant lifestyle, the introduction of luxury driving lessons signifies a pragmatic approach to driver education. This initiative stands as a crucial reminder that amidst the glitter and glamour, mastering the fundamentals of safe driving should remain paramount. Through this innovative program, Monaco Bonne Conduite aims to cultivate a generation of responsible drivers who can navigate both the streets and the demands of their high-powered vehicles.