In pictures: The Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta and Rendezvous 2017 parties

Sailing yacht owners, charterers and guests once again came together in the British Virgin Islands for three days of thrilling racing at the Loro Piana Caribbean Regatta & Rendezvous. Taking place from March 10-13, the programme also included a glittering array of social events allowing owners to discuss the day's events and catch up with old friends in the beautiful surroundings of Virgin Gorda. Kicking off with the Oil Nut Bay beach barbecue, pictured above, click through to see inside these spectacular parties.

Guests enjoy lunch on the beautiful shoreline of Oil Nut Bay.

Before the regatta really kicked off, guests and owners caught up over drinks at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. This casual evening was accompanied by a barbecue supper and gave guests a chance to weigh up their opposition for the days to come.

Owners and guests, including Marcus Blackmore, owner of Ammonite, and Pier Luigi Loro Piana, owner of My Song, with Oil Nut Bay owner David Johnson.

Representatives from the government of the British Virgin Islands welcome guests to Virgin Gorda.

Kim and Nina Vibe-Petersen, owners of Q, with guests at the welcome drinks.

The first day of racing was celebrated with the always highly anticipated Loro Piana Owner's Dinner at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. Guests donned their finery for an evening of sumptuous food, entertainment and analysis of the day's events.

Pictured: Martin Sutter, who chartered sailing yacht Leopard 3 for the regatta, with guests

Don Macpherson, owner of Freya, with guests.

Guests, including Nicky Mosca and Mattia Belleri (captain of B5), pictured at the Loro Piana Owner's Dinner during the Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous.

Superyacht owner Marcus Blackmore with Valentina Tagliamacco of Loro Piana.