Video: Live from day 1 at Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2019

By Katia Damborsky 5 June 2019

Attracting hundreds of spectators and participants to Porto Cervo, the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2019 is well underway in Sardinia.

Following a brief delay, the flag was lowered and a pistol signalled the start of the first race at the 2019 Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta on June 3.

Buoyed by sunshine and light winds, the fleet of sailing yachts set off from Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), undertaking a challenging course around La Maddalena archipelago.

A video by the YCCS gives viewers an insight into the friendly camaraderie and competition that has come to be expected from the prestigious regatta.

Now in its 12th edition, this is the first year that the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta has introduced a five-day racing format that aims to account for any races which need to be rescheduled.

It is also the first time the regatta will include multihulls measuring over 50 feet.

The races will continue until 8 June. The 6th will see a lay day for the majority of competitors, but Southern Winds-built yachts will enjoy their own race.

Now in its 12th edition, this is the first year that the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta has introduced a five-day racing format.

While Southern Winds' yachts compete in every day of the races, the winners of this particular course will receive a trophy dedicated to the memory of Willy Persico, the founder of the Cape-Town based shipyard who passed away last year.

Among this year’s competitors, the 35m/115ft charter yacht SHAMANNA and the 52m/170ft sailing yacht Q are both hoping to take home the gold.

Sailing yacht and crew on board yacht at Loro Piana Regatta

Sailor on board yacht at regatta in Sardinia

Aerial view of sailing yachts in Porto Cervo waiting for Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta

As ever, the races are enlivened by a rich social programme around the clubhouse, which includes yacht hops, cocktail evenings and gala dinners.

The festivities aim to facilitate networking and strengthen the bond between sailors and spectators.

Located along the Costa Smeralda on the Italian island of Sardinia, this part of the Mediterranean is an invariably popular yacht charter destination.

With its miles of sandy shores and sparkling topaz water, the region is known for its unparalleled natural beauty, and the regatta marks the perfect way to extend an Italy yacht charter.