Kicking off on 22nd June this year is three days (racing from 23rd – 25th June) of intense racing off the Balearic island of Mallorca. The annual Superyacht Cup Palma is the longest running superyacht regatta in Europe and each year attracts a fleet of highly anticipated and ready-to-race superyachts. This year, the 20th Superyacht Cup, is now different and the total fleet now includes 23 of some of the most well-known regatta circuit racers on the water today. Here we take a look at just some of the yachts that will cross the start line come Thursday 23rd June.
Atalante
The very first Truly Classic 127 from Claasen Shipyards, the 38.5 metre all aluminium sloop Atalante was built for an experienced and repeat Claasen client. Launched in late May, she features both naval architecture and interior design from Hoek Design Naval Architects. Since her delivery, she has been listed for charter by Hoek Brokerage.
Ganesha
The stunning superyacht Ganesha was delivered by the acclaimed Dutch shipyard Vitters in the fourth quarter of 2013 to her experienced owners. With her sleek lines and slender silhouette she is a beautiful sloop that seamlessly combines elegant style with top performance and efficiency. From her smooth, uncluttered exterior to her stylish lightweight interiors, she undoubtedly has the heart and soul of a racing yacht yet doesn't compromise on comfort in any way.
Seawave
One of the brand new yachts in the fleet is the 2015-launched Seawave. Built by Southern Wind Shipyard in Cape Town, she is the fourth hull in the successful SW 102 mini-series and has proven herself a competent regatta contender. On deck she houses two fridges within the coamings to help keep her race crew fresh and hydrated.
Unfurled
Measuring 46 metres, Vitters Shipyard launched Unfurled in October from their facilities in Harlingen, the Netherlands. Constructed with both an aluminium hull and superstructure, she was designed by German Frers - the inaugural collaboration between the shipyard and designer. The modern interior design was created by the Owner with Stirling & Co. Amongst her unique characteristics is the headsail storage system, which was developed in-house by Vitters.
Photo by Jeff Brown / Breed Media
Saudade
The Wally 148 Saudade, when launched in 2008 the largest Wally built to date, was built in Italy. Commissioned by an experienced yachtsman, Saudade features the lines of Tripp Design, with the modern interiors and styling of Eidsgaard Design. This was Tripp Design’s second collaboration with Wally at that time, and all efforts were made to achieve ultimate speed within the constraints of seamanship.
The Superyacht Cup Palma will also be part of the the Clean Regattas programme for the first time this year. This initiative is the world’s only sustainably certification for water-based events and aims to unite and mobilise sailors by offering support and eco-friendly resources to help conserve and protect our ocean. Practical examples of this movement includes the reduction of plastic materials used during the event, and promoting cycling to reach the Race Village.