First day racing action at Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta

The first day of the 12th edition of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta kicked off today in Porto Cervo on the island of Sardinia. A delayed start saw the fleet line up for a 13:30 start signal outside the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda which followed a staggered start system, setting the vessels off on a shorter course to the south towards Porto Rotondo. Photo: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht Times

Coastal races will take place until Saturday 8 June around the islands of the archipelago of La Maddalena, with a day off scheduled for 6 June for all but the fleet of Southern Wind yachts, who will compete every day.Photo: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht Times

The crews on board the yachts are almost entirely made up of professional sailors, including important names such as Francesco De Angelis, skipper of Luna Rossa in the America's Cup from 2000 to 2007, on this occasion helming the 33-metre Ribelle, owned by YCCS members Paola and Salvatore Trifirò.Photo: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht Times

Riccardo Bonadeo, YCCS Commodore declared: "The 12th edition of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta sees 20 boats lined up on the quays of Porto Cervo, proving that the Costa Smeralda is the location of choice for owners who want to race and sail. I thank everyone present, I am sure you will have a week of challenges on the water followed by great social events when you return to shore.”Photo: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht Times

Now in its 14th edition, the Southern Wind Rendevouz and Trophy will be held within the regatta. Eight of the yachts on the dock hail from the Cape Town shipyard founded by Willy Persico, with a trophy being dedicated to his memory in this edition. Photo: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht TimesPhoto: Charl van Rooy / SuperYacht Times