Wednesday, 13 December 2017

2018 Superyacht Cup Palma fleet is already a heady mix of racing prestige

The 22nd edition of The Superyacht Cup Palma, scheduled from 19-23 June next year, is shaping up to be one of yachting's hottest events of the year. Entries are coming in thick and fast, plus the majestic J-Class are making a comeback, adding Europe's longest running and largest superyacht regatta to their 2018 calendar.

Their return is a real treat, as the last time we welcomed the illustrious J-Class yachts to The Superyacht Cup was in 2014. Js already signed up include Velsheda (38m), Ranger (41m), Topaz (43m) and Svea (44m), the latest addition to the J-Class fleet. Sailing aficionados can rejoice as J-Class racing at The Superyacht Cup will take place over four days.

The last time we welcomed the illustrious J-Class yachts to the SYC was in 2014. ©www.clairematches.com

Additionally, no fewer than thirteen superyachts have set their sights on an overall win next year, with most already comfortably familiar with podium-glory. A case in point is the 45m Wally Saudade. This accomplished competitor came third in class during our 2017 edition and boasts a hat-trick of three back-to-back Loro Piana wins. Another competitor accustomed to racing fame is the 33m Inouï, a standout both for the colour scheme and the crew's skill on the race course.

The 32m Frers-designed Bolero is another competitor that comes alive on the race track. The team deftly swept the board at the SYC in 2017, securing undisputed overall victory. They will be back to defend their hard-fought title next year.

For performance oriented teams, there will be plenty of competition to keep pros on their toes and superyacht racing fans on the edge of their seats. Win Win, the Baltic built flyer will be back, putting the team's crew work and tactical skills to the test again in a bid to repeat their 2017 victory in Class A.

Second place finisher Ribelle, a 34m lightweight speedster, will also be jostling for honours. Captain Federico Biatturi is relishing the prospect: "All five of us were very close, of course we will be back and we will try and win next time!"

With four of the above superyachts returning, the competition will be on!

Second place finisher Ribelle, a 33m lightweight speedster, will also be jostling for honours. ©www.clairematches.com

On top of the thrills and spills of Superyacht Cup racing, the event's famous social programme and signature laid-back atmosphere are also on the agenda. Catch up with friends during the high-spirited happy hours, make new business connections, network and have fun.

As in previous years, race management will be in the expert hands of the prestigious Real Club Náutico de Palma and the 2018 Superyacht Cup Palma Notice of Race can be found on the event website.

Last but not least, we would like to thank our loyal partners, St. Regis, Pendennis, Pantaenius, 100% Pure New ZealandGottifredi Maffioli and Reckmann for their continued support in helping us make The Superyacht Cup Palma an annual yachting highlight. Our 2018 sponsors will benefit from an enhanced PR and Commercial team put in place to raise the regatta's international profile.

Stay tuned for more news and entries to be announced in January 2018. Until then, the team at The Superyacht Cup Palma wish you a very happy holiday season.