Virago, SYC Antigua 2007. Image copyright Kos/KosPictures.com
by Kate Branagh
As many superyachts buckle down to refit work at the end of the summer period and prepare for delivery trips across the Atlantic, Owners' plans are being finalized for Caribbean cruising and winter sailing events. The successful and well-attended superyacht regattas in Europe this summer appear to have boosted the Caribbean events too and interest is higher than ever for The Superyacht Cup in Antigua, now with new dates at the end of January.
“We are in regular contact with many yacht captains and the response this year is exceptionally positive; more than 15 yachts have said they are hoping to take part this January and we are confident that there will be a really strong fleet and excellent racing” explained Patrick Whetter Event Organiser. "The Antigua event has grown in popularity over the three years since it started but the big increase in numbers appears to be due to moving the regatta to the end of January when most schedules are not so busy."
The event will be held over four days with registration on Wednesday January 27th and then racing on the 28th, 29th and 30th. The ‘Bucket Rating’ system will be used and subject to conditions two races are planned for the 29th. Antigua is one of the most popular yacht racing destinations in the Caribbean. The seasonal trade winds provide perfect conditions for exhilarating sailing, and the social programme provides plenty of opportunity to enjoy the best of the local hospitality each afternoon after the racing.
Perini Navi will be returning to sponsor the Superyacht Cup Antigua and are planning to have at least two of their fleet taking part. The Briand designed 38m sloop P2, built by Perini, has already confirmed she will be participating.
Leading yacht insurance broker Pantaenius, a long-term support of The Superyacht Cup, will continue their sponsorship of the Antigua event. Martin Baum explains: " It is a great opportunity for us to get out and see our clients as well as meet new owners, captains and crew; it is always such a great atmosphere at this event and Pantaenius enjoys being part of it".
Wayfarer Marine from Maine USA is taking up silver sponsorship of The Superyacht Cup Antigua. Wayfarer supported the Horus Superyacht Cup in Palma this year where Ben Cashen attended the regatta on behalf of the company to promote the skills and experience of their full service yard, situated in the beautiful location of Camden in the state of Maine. Wayfarer Marine is a popular destination for many of the superyachts visiting the US eastern seaboard and several of the participating yachts at Superyacht Cup regattas in Europe and the Caribbean have strong connections with the region.
The Superyacht Cup
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