Breaking barriers and embracing change, E1 is the world’s first all-electric race boat championship, promising both cutting-edge marine technology and adrenaline-fuelling action. With 2024 marking its inaugural year, the "Formula 1 of the seas" has already captured global attention, boasting an impressive lineup of international celebrity team owners, including footballer Tom Brady, tennis player Rafael Nadal, DJ Steve Aoki, singer Marc Anthony and Formula 1 driver Sergio Pérez, to name a few.
As the championship unfolds across seven venues throughout the year, BOAT shines the spotlight on Marbella's picturesque Puerto Banús, one of Spain’s most glamorous destinations, and explores how regatta enthusiasts can immerse themselves in all the action of the event.
Introducing E1
E1 marks a pivotal shift in both traditional regattas and global racing sports. Founded by Alejandro Agag, an electric motorsport pioneer, and Rodi Basso, an Italian engineer who has collaborated with NASA, Ferrari and Red Bull Racing, E1 will make its mark at several iconic locations throughout the year, such as Jeddah, Venice, Geneva, Monaco, Rotterdam and Hong Kong, alongside Puerto Banús.
Comprising up to 10 teams, the revolutionary RaceBird boat, crafted by the visionary Sophi Horne of Seabird Technologies, is central to the competition. With the ability to soar at speeds of up to 50 knots, RaceBird boats are equipped with electric propulsion systems and foiling technology, ensuring high performance with minimal environmental impact. Spectators from across the globe are expected to line the shores as each team battles it out to secure the prestigious E1 title of Champions Of the Water.
"The individuals and celebrities brought together by E1, along with their team members, collectively reach over 1.1 billion followers across various social media platforms worldwide," explained Juan Núñez Insausti, CEO of Puerto Banús. "These influencers do not only represent the competition but also serve as ambassadors for our destination on 1 and 2 June. Their participation will further elevate the synergy between tourism and sports that we proudly highlight in our location. It is an international event that not only wants to be held on a single occasion but both Marbella and Puerto Banús want to host this sporting and sustainable event for the coming years."
A premier European event marina
Strategically positioned to welcome yachts entering the Mediterranean for the summer season, on 2 June 2024 Puerto Banús will become the place to be as it hosts the E1 championship, with an estimated 20,000 visitors expected in the Costa del Sol over the weekend. No stranger to hosting large-scale events, Puerto Banús is a go-to destination for key occasions in the yachting calendar, such as the Banús eShow by Galaxia and the Cívitas Puerto Banús Motor Show, with its enviable climate boasting 300 days of 30 degrees Celsius annually.
Puerto Banús is committed to aligning with E1's mission to drive positive change in marine transport. The marina proudly implements new measures aimed at preserving both its marine facilities and the surrounding environment. Recognised for its dedication to environmental initiatives, Puerto Banús was awarded the Andalucía Environmental Prize in November 2023 for its efforts in biodiversity conservation. Additionally, it holds the coveted Blue Flag, a symbol of environmental responsibility, along with the ISO 9,001 and 14,001 Quality and Environmental Management Certificates, and it was recently hailed as Spain's most sustainable marina.
World-class marina amenities
Puerto Banús boasts an array of world-class amenities tailored to enhance the experience of all visitors during the E1 championship. With 915 berths spread across 15 hectares of sheltered water, the marina accommodates yachts up to 50 metres LOA, with provision for anchorage for longer vessels. Ensuring utmost security, the marina offers secure berthing options complemented by access card-controlled entry, backed by round-the-clock surveillance through its CCTV network.
The marina also operates a 24-hour crew service, providing assistance and support whenever needed. Moreover, land-based visitors keen on getting out on the water during the racing can turn to onsite charter brokers to find the perfect yacht for you and your guests.
Extending your stay in Puerto Banús
Alongside the adrenaline of E1, Puerto Banús and its surrounding area has much to offer visitors. Indulge in some retail therapy at renowned boutiques, such as Dior, Hermes, Rolex and Louis Vuitton, and explore the luxury sport car rentals on offer to transport you from A to B in style. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local culture with private family tours to local attractions on land or at sea, including whale and dolphin watching, or treat yourself to a gastronomic tour curated by award-winning chef Dani Garcia.
To ensure every aspect of your stay is catered to, take advantage of the marina's full-service concierge, which will ensure your holiday in Puerto Banús is fulfilling and memorable during the much-anticipated E1 racing.
For more information about E1 at Puerto Banús or to plan your stay at the marina, contact the team today.
Sponsored content created for Puerto Banús