Dates for the 2013 edition of The Superyacht Cup in Palma have been confirmed by its organisers for June 19th – 22nd, taking place at Muelle Viejo in the centre of Palma. It will be the 17th year for this Mediterranean event, which brings competitive racing as well as a fun, together with relaxed social programme each evening. This event is simply a not to be missed regatta in the European season.
Charter yacht Ranger and Velsheda superyacht racing in the Caribbean - Photo by Claire Matches
After a busy racing season in 2012, the J Class Association have elected Superyacht Cup Palma as one of three regattas for the forthcoming year where the yachts will line up against each other for intense, competitive, high-stakes racing. The J’s expected in Palma for 2013 are charter yacht Ranger (Burgess & Stephens/Danish Yachts) , sailing yacht Velsheda (Nicholsons /Camper & Nicholsons), superyacht Lionheart (Hoek/Claasen Jachtbouw) and luxury yacht Rainbow (Dykstra & Partners/Holland Jachtbouw).
It will be the first time ever to have four racing J class yachts in Palma and judging by the excitement generated in the UK this year it will provide a spectacular sight for other competitors and observers. As well as the J’s, there has been a great response from regular superyacht visitors to Palma, indicating that the entry limit of 22 yachts will be reached quickly. The 62m megayacht Athos (Hoek/Holland Jachtbouw), who had her racing debut in Palma in 2011 will be returning as well as the stunning F class sloop, superyacht Firefly (Hoek/Claasen Jachtbouw).
The Superyacht Racing Association (SYRA) which has been very active in the past two years assessing the important safety issues for Superyacht racing, as well as developing a fairer rating system, have brought together the key superyacht regatta organisers and agreed on uniform racing rules and procedures. In addition all the regattas will adopt the new ISYR rating system. The International Superyacht Rule (ISYR) will replace the Bucket Rule and will be used in Palma for 2013 as well as at the Antigua Superyacht Challenge, the Caribbean Superyacht Rendezvous in the BVI‘s and at St Barth’s Bucket.
Returning sponsors already signed up for The Superyacht Cup Palma are Gaastra, Pantaenius, Astilleros de Mallorca, Rolling Stock, Elvstrom, ZIS, Pendennis, Reckmann and Y.CO.
The Superyacht Cup will follow the traditional programme, opening with a Welcome Cocktail on June 19th, followed by racing on three consecutive days and culminating with an elegant Prize Giving Evening at Es Baluard Museum on Saturday June 22nd.
