Top 19 race photos from the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2017

_Magic Blu_e and Y3K trade gybes during close racing on the final day of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2017.

Ryokan 2 has her bow in front as the Wallys jostle for position in a hotly contested class.

The Sardinian sun lights up Inouï's distinctive green hull as she sales under a tight spinnaker on the Costa Smeralda.

Nahita pressing hard with maximum concentration from the kit trimmers as the yachts reach the Monaci islets.

Straight lining to the last turn of the course in the closely grouped and fiercely battling Wally posse.

It was neck-and-neck all day in the Wally fleet with boats jostling for position until Nahita took the win at the very last moment.

Despite a delayed start time, excellent conditions later on saw winds of up to 20 knots resulting in extremely close and thrilling racing.

Teams raced hard and fast with every second counting during day two - as this image of Galateia cutting through the waves attests.

Close racing for the Wally 80s as they line up entering 'bomb alley' with Magic Carpet 3 finally coming out on top in the Wally Class.

Galateia's experienced crew show off their skill as the yacht is pictured under spinnaker and staysail making best speed around the course.