Sailing Regattas For Your 2024 Calendar
Sailing regattas are a spectacle not to miss, from the well-established, long-running events to the new ones on the scene. Whether you are a seasoned sailor and are involved in the race or want to watch from the sidelines, a luxury superyacht charter is an ideal way to experience these regattas. Combining the convivial atmosphere and camaraderie of sailors makes these global events unique.
We have picked a few of the best to add to your 2024 calendar:
New Zealand Millennium Cup, 23-26 February
The new year will get off to a great start in New Zealand, where the Millennium Cup will be held from February 23 to 26. Watch the yachts being put through their paces in the waters of the North Island’s aptly named city of sails, Auckland. It is the world’s most southerly regatta. If you make the journey here, why not extend your stay? Enjoy this hemisphere’s summer on a superyacht charter cruising the country’s incredible and picturesque coastlines.
Superyacht Challenge, 11-17 March
The Superyacht Challenge in Antigua is well known within the Caribbean winter yachting scene. Contenders and spectators flood to the UNESCO site of Nelson’s Dockyard to get involved. The races depart and return to the English Harbor from March 11 to 17. It is an exciting and friendly event, and in true Caribbean style, the winner receives barrels of rum! There are already strong expressions of interest in the regatta, with many veterans returning. Charter a superyacht to watch the races unfold against this tropical backdrop.
St Barths Bucket, 21-24 March
Another anticipated sailing regatta on the Caribbean schedule is the St Barths Bucket, which will return from March 21 to 24. An invitation-only event on the idyllic French island, it welcomes some of the most prestigious superyachts and the renowned J-class fleet. Superyachts of all forms get involved, with over 30 heading to the start line. For those wanting to watch, it is the perfect location for a superyacht charter. The island’s laid-back party atmosphere promises the best apres sailing for those in attendance.
Les Voiles de Antibes, 29 May - 2 June
Across the pond and marking the beginning of the Mediterranean regatta circuit is Les Voiles de Antibes on the French Riviera. Vintage and classic yachts head to Port Vauban in Antibes at the end of May to enjoy the beginning of the Mediterranean racing season to compete along this famous coastline. The rivalries of the circuit will be there in full force, along with newcomers looking to out-race each other.
Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, 4-8 June
Gracing the emerald waters of Sardinia once again, the four-day regatta sponsored by Giorgio Armani will be held in Porto Cervo from June 4 to 8. Entries are open to superyachts; the race will see old-timers and newbies ready to race. To embrace more time cruising the Maddalena Island chain, tag on a couple of extra days on either side of the regatta.
Superyacht Cup Palma, 19-22 June
Hailing as the longest-running regatta in Europe, the Superyacht Cup in Palma takes full advantage of the initial summer sailing conditions. The four-day event in Mallorca, with an impressive fleet of high-performance sailing yachts, will run from June 19 to 22. The city of Palma is the perfect destination for the event; it is full of bars, top-quality restaurants, and boutique shopping opportunities.
Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, 8-14 September
Back to the Costa Smeralda, the most talented sailors gather again in Sardinia toward the end of the season for the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. The annual event on the Costa Smeralda sees world-class sailing yachts compete, from the historical to the iconic J class. Taking place from 8 to 14 September, the regatta welcomes various yachts to Porto Cervo. The competitive atmosphere combined with Italian elegance gives this regatta its unique edge.
Les Voiles de St Tropez, 26 September - 6 October
As the Mediterranean yacht charter and racing season draws to a close, Les Voiles de St Tropez ensures it ends in style. This regatta is a huge gathering of maxi yachts to celebrate the end of summer, with around 300 boats turning up. It has run for over two decades and is one of the most important regattas. Get out in the action on a superyacht charter to round off summer 2024.
America’s Cup, 12-20 October
Saving the best until last is the top of the regatta bucket list, the America’s Cup. The oldest international sporting trophy is coming to Europe for its 37th edition. Hosted in Barcelona from 12 to 20 October 2024, in the surrounds of Port Vell to Port Olympic. The competition features the most high-tech yachts in a bid to take gold. The adrenaline of the cup is best experienced out on the water, watching these incredible teams from the best vantage points. You can stay for three weeks or a weekend to get a taste of world-class sailing fun.
Whether you are in the lineup and competing for a trophy or simply want to be involved in spectating these momentous regattas, IYC can find the best superyacht charter for you next year. Reach out to your broker or contact us to find out more about these regattas and charter destinations.