Entries are open for the 28th edition of the Superyacht Cup Palma (SYC),which promises a week of action-packed sailing between June 19 and 22 in Mallorca. Organisers are predicting a memorable turnout this year, since the regatta will take place just weeks ahead of the America’s Cup in Barcelona.
"All the indications are it’s going to be quite a season in 2024 and we are ready, willing and able to welcome back returning yachts and greet any and all newcomers," said SYC event director Kate Branagh.
Organisers are hopeful that they will see between 12 and 15 sailing yachts battling it out on the race circuit. Among those returning this year, the 38.5-metre J Class Velsheda is expected to make an appearance, defending her reputation as one of the regatta’s longest-serving participants.
Newcomers include the 39.4-metre Hoek Design Vijonara from Pendennis Shipyard. Meanwhile, 44-metre Vitters J Class Svea is one of the largest yachts that has expressed interest in the event. "It looks like 2024 will be a special year in the sailing community, so it will be good to be in the heart of the action in Palma this June," said Velsheda’s captain Will Gibbon.
The event will kick off on June 19 with the Superyacht Cup registration, followed by the event’s first race for J Class yachts, then a Captains’ Briefing and welcome cocktails. Racing will continue on the following days, along with a daily happy hour and prizegiving events in the spirit of camaraderie and networking. On Friday, a special invitation-only St. Regis Mardavall Midsummer BBQ for owners will wind down the day.
Supporters include Preferred Hotel Partner St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca, Official Timepiece Jaquet Droz, Gold Partner Pendennis and Silver Partners Astilleros de Mallorca, Pantaenius, RSB Rigging, North Sails, Southern Spars and Marinepool. BOAT International is acting as media partner.
Kate Branagh added: "All of us at the Superyacht Cup Palma are looking forward to another gathering to celebrate sailing and friendly, competitive racing – which is what it is all about."