Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2011 now underway

by Jill Campbell on 8 Jun 2011 Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2011 is now underway with twenty-seven of the most spectacular sailing yachts on the water. The superyachts are currently berthed in Porto Cervo and all are eagerly anticipating the first day of racing.

This will be The fourth edition of the annual Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta and it will be taking place from 7th to 11th June, organized by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Boat International Media. Already the event has attracted an impressive fleet of sailing yachts ranging from 24m to 57.5m in length.

The fleet will be divided into cruising and performance divisions and includes several newcomers to the event such as the 54.6 metre Marie, the 49.7 metre Zefira and Twizzle, the largest yacht in the fleet at 57.5 metres, all of which were launched in 2010. A strong Wally contingent will be competing in the Performance division while this year's fleet of Southern Wind yachts will include the 33.6 metre flagship Thalima, competing for the first time in a regatta.

Edoardo Recchi, Sports Director at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda commented: 'We are very happy to have twenty-seven superyachts racing at the 2011 Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta. Having new boats and several boats that are attending for the first time is very pleasing: this event is attracting a very large and exciting fleet to our waters.'

Racing is scheduled to begin tomorrow, 8th June at 12 midday and the YCCS Race Committee will select the courses daily depending on the wind and sea conditions. The reliable breezes and striking natural beauty of the region make Costa Smeralda a favourite sailing destination of both owners and crew, with the islands and rocks of the La Maddalena archipelago acting as natural markers in the emerald waters off the Sardinian coast.

The Captains' Briefing will take place this evening at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda followed by a Welcome Cocktail for owners and their guests on the poolside terrace overlooking the magnificent fleet berthed in the marina below.

As well as four days of thrilling action on the water, guests can look forward to a glamorous social programme including the infamous Beach Party at the exclusive Hotel Romazzino and the Loro Piana Owners' Loro Piana Superyacht website