Superyacht regatta underway in Palma

NOW in its 22^nd year, the Palma Superyacht Cup started yesterday and runs until Saturday with a host of superyachts from all over the world.

There are 10 yachts ranging in length from 27 to 45 metres taking part having brought 300 sailors from the United States, Switzerland, Italy, New Zealand, Holland, Australia, South Africa and Spain to compete.

Some of the largest superyachts are missing as they are taking part in the America’s Cup eliminations in Bermuda but those who are in attendance will ensure a fiercely competitive event which should excite participants and spectators alike.

This is arguably the most important of all of the annual superyacht events in Europe and next year will see the return to a large field of competitors as they decamp from Bermuda.

As Mallorca is extremely environmentally aware, the organisers are making sure that this can be called a ‘Clean Regatta’ and are supplying all participants with reusable water bottles containing filtered water in order to ensure that the amount of waste plastic consigned to the sea is minimal.

Many local suppliers will be on site offering their services and assistance and all welcome a number of new competitors as well as some past winners together with two boats containing experienced Spanish crews.

Safety at sea is paramount especially with large vessels and in order to oversee this and look after the interests of those taking part, the Superyacht Racing Association was formed in 2012.