The 28th edition of the Superyacht Cup Palma (SYC),which promises a week of action-packed sailing between June 19 and 22 in Mallorca, begins today (19 June). Organisers are predicting a memorable turnout this year, since the regatta will take place just weeks ahead of the America’s Cup in Barcelona.
This year will see Superyacht Cup Palma's defending champion, the 24-metre Wally yacht Rose fight to retain her title against the two Nautor Swan's, Umiko and Dark Horse, and the brand-new Y Yachts Calabash. Other challengers to her crown could well come from the second class and the Hoek Classic duo of Atalante and Vijonara, the Tripp-designed Cervo, and the majestic 59-metre ketch Maximus.
"Looking at the immediate competition in our class, this year looks like it is going to be even more of a contest — we’re really looking forward to getting out there!" said Rose's tactician Jesper Radich.
Organisers are hopeful that they will see 12 sailing yachts battling it out on the race circuit, including the 51-metre Royal Huisman Borkumriff IV and the 39-metre Hoek Design Vijonara from Pendennis Shipyard, a newcomer to the cup.
Kicking off the event will be the J-Class yachts, most notably, the 39-metre J Class Velsheda , one of the regatta’s longest-serving participants. Snapping at her heels will no doubt be her friendly adversary, 44-metre Svea, and the newly refitted Rainbow - with the sail J-KZ1 - which will be making her first racing outing in 10 years.
The event kicks off with the Superyacht Cup registration, followed by the event’s first race for J Class yachts, then a Captains’ Briefing and welcome cocktails. Racing will continue on the following days, along with a daily happy hour and prizegiving events in the spirit of camaraderie and networking. On Friday, a special invitation-only St. Regis Mardavall Midsummer BBQ for owners will wind down the day.
Supporters include Preferred Hotel Partner St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca, Official Timepiece Jaquet Droz, Gold Partner Pendennis and Silver Partners Astilleros de Mallorca, Pantaenius, RSB Rigging, North Sails, Southern Spars and Marinepool. BOAT International is acting as media partner.
Kate Branagh added: "All of us at the Superyacht Cup Palma are looking forward to another gathering to celebrate sailing and friendly, competitive racing – which is what it is all about."