Régates Royales 2014 - A year full of novelties

by Les Regates Royales on 27 Jun 2014 Few regattas in the world boast some of the best and oldest classic yachts as entries. For the 36th edition the Régates Royales – Trophée Panerai many of the most magnificent yachts have entered to celebrate in grand style the tenth anniversary of the Panerai Classic Yacht Challenge circuit.

Closing event of the classic season in the Mediterranean, the Régates Royales will run from September 21st to 28th gathering over one hundred classics, historical 12 and eight Metres and the ever present and highly competitive Dragons class. The yachts, with different rigs and ranging in size, will race against each other in the wide-ranging and challenging conditions that can be expected in the spectacular bay of Cannes.

The charm the Régates Royales holds for both owners and sailors alike is reaffirmed with the 30 new registries out of the 50 entries so far. Among this year's 'rookies' Sif will surely draw the interest of fans and spectators. Launched in 1894, this 16-metre long gaff schooner will be present in Cannes to celebrate her 120th birthday.

The 2014 edition will also mark another anniversary, the 10th edition co-organised by the Société des Régates de Cannes, that will be honoured with some very special guests including Dorade, Elena of London, Oriole, Mariquita, Shamrock V and many more.

This year's Régates Royales will also assemble boats from the 12 Metres class, where Wings, launched in 1937 and helmed by naval architect Guy Ribadeau Dumas, will face the strong competition of other five boats and then among the eight Metres, France and Saskia will lead the charge.

An essential rendez-vous for the European crews, the Régates Royales attracts the best Dragons boats, eager to compete on the four day long regatta that is never short of intensity and challenges. Coming from Ireland, England, Germany, France, Italy or Russia the Dragons converge in Cannes to battle it out for success on a very technical racecourse, where only the best and most consistent shine. For the second time, Mauritius will take centre stage in the Dragon class on Friday, a day especially dedicated to the stunning island in the Indian Ocean while Thursday will fly the colours of the race sponsor Eutelsat.

Traditionally located on the quai Laubeuf, the Régates Royales de Cannes' race village will come to life thanks to several activities and attractions, namely the most popular live music concerts in the evenings. The City of Cannes will also contribute to the show, with a special exhibition by photographer Jérôme Kelagopian along rue d’Antibes and many local businesses sharing the festive atmosphere to make the event attractive ashore as much as at Event website