Top 16 race photos from the Loro Piana Caribbean Regatta & Rendezvous 2016

As the yachts went in to day three of the Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta 2016 there was everything still to play for - especially in Class A where racing machines Nilaya and Inoui were both in contention to take the trophy.

Having overcome huge obstacles including a broken engine and burst sail, Nilaya ultimately came out on top at the Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous 2016. Her efficient, expert and stunningly synchronised crew - who gave it their all through every day of racing - are undoubtedly a big part of the reason why.

One of the reasons so many owners, crew and enthusiasts enjoy regattas is because of the rare experience of seeing so many beautiful yachts on the water at once. This image, with brilliant aft views of Atalante and Nilaya, is just a small taste of the incredible viewing on offer at this year's Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous.

It was a battle of beautiful spinnakers as Elfje and Ganesha drew up side by side during day two of racing. Whether you prefer Elfje's royal blue fairy or Ganesha's orange elephant, there's no denying they look spectacular.

Streamlined hulls, sharp sails and expert technique - this is the quintessential image explaining why superyachts offer some of the best and most impressive sailing on the water.

Of course it could be argued that no-one enjoys regatta racing quite as much as the captains, tacticians and crew that put hours of hard work in to it. From this image of a Seahawk crew member enjoying the view from the bow and signalling to the team behind him while waves crash onto the deck, it's easy to see why it appeals to so many.

The Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous 2016 kicked off in style on March 10 with 21 sailing yachts battling it out during fine weather in the British Virgin Islands. Of course, fine weather for a sailing yacht means plenty of wind resulting in dramatic waves for the team on board 44.4 metre Samurai to contend with.

With its bright green hull, Marco Vögele's 33.4 metre Vitters Inouï is hard to miss on the race track. Catching the Caribbean sun this divisive yacht made a good case for brightly coloured paint jobs.

Part of the joy of owning a sailing yacht is putting your stamp on the design with a top superyacht spinnaker. Inspired by the god that gives it its name, 46 metre Vitters Ganesha leads the pack in this classic regatta photo.

Of course the real thrill of yacht racing is in, well, the racing. Neck and neck on a long stretch of open water, Inouï and 52 metre Royal Huisman Elfje show why the sport is just as much about skill and tactics as design and size.