Top 19 race photos from the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2017

Ryokan 2 has her bow in front as the Wallys jostle for position in a hotly contested class.

The Sardinian sun lights up Inouï's distinctive green hull as she sales under a tight spinnaker on the Costa Smeralda.

Nahita pressing hard with maximum concentration from the kit trimmers as the yachts reach the Monaci islets.

Despite a delayed start time, excellent conditions later on saw winds of up to 20 knots resulting in extremely close and thrilling racing.

The recently delivered 33 metre Vitters Ribelle powers upwind as she prepares for her spinnaker hoist during the yacht's debut race at the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta.

Racing is close as the fleet prepares to turn south at Monaci islets before a final battle to the finish line.

Pier Luigi Loro Piana's new Baltic 130 My Song going well en route to third place during her maiden race at the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta.

Close racing for the Wally 80s as they line up entering 'bomb alley' with Magic Carpet 3 finally coming out on top in the Wally Class.

Galateia's experienced crew show off their skill as the yacht is pictured under spinnaker and staysail making best speed around the course.

With racing so tight throughout the day crews did whatever they could to get their yacht ahead - even taking daredevil trips up the mast.