The colours of Sardinia in June, the cool wind filling the sails of 16 impressive superyachts, and the mastery of Carlo Borlenghi and the photographers from his studio all came together to ensure that the images of the 14th Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta were truly breathtaking. But these photographs also tell another story, one which goes beyond their intrinsic beauty: they will remain in the archives of the YCCS as the images that captured our reopening after activities were forced to a halt due to the pandemic. Having been able to hold the superyacht event in complete safety is a source of pride for the Club and optimism for the future.
Loro Piana Superyacht, the return to racing
Loro Piana Superyacht, the return to racing
After three days of perfect breeze, the fourth and final day of the first superyacht event of the Mediterranean season confirmed victory for the boats already leading their respective categories. In the Superyacht division, the 33-metre Missy, built by Vitters to a design by Malcolm McKeon YD, won the event thanks to a faultless scoreboard boasting four first place finishes. Second position went to the Swan 115 Shamanna, and the third step on the podium was claimed by the Wally Y3k, owned by Claus-Peter Offen and with Karol Jablonski on tactics.
In the Multihull category, a new feature for this 14th edition of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, victory went to the Gunboat 68 Highland Fling XVII, with tactician Cameron Appleton, while the HH66 R-Six clinched second place, just one point ahead of Allegra, a 25-metre yacht designed by Irens and Nauta Design. Large and luxurious yet high-performance catamarans are a category that promises growth in the future, and is attracting both new owners and experienced yachtsman from the more classic monohulls.
The Rendezvous category was entirely dedicated to yachts from the South African Southern Wind Shipyard, who gathered in the waters of the Costa Smeralda to take part in the SW Rendezvous and Trophy on the occasion of the shipyards 30th anniversary. The seven yachts attending took part in the social programme of the event together with the other competitors, while at sea they came together for a friendly sail each day before returning to Porto Cervo in the evening. The Southern Wind Trophy was presented to the SW94 Aragon, which raced in the Superyacht division.
"Seeing sixteen superyachts lined up in front of the YCCS for the first race of the season is the best indicator we could have for an optimistic resumption of activities. We want to share this positivity with the region that is our home and, more generally, with the entire yachting industry - because international regattas like this one are an important driver for the economy." commented YCCS Commodore, Michael Illbruck.
For those who were present in Porto Cervo between 1 and 5 June, these images of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta will provide an opportunity to relive the memories of a return to racing. Everyone else can get carried away as if they had actually been there, but with the added benefit of the photographer's privileged viewpoint and eye for detail. Enjoy!
