Thrilling challenges among the giants of sailing. From May to October, the sea between the Costa Smeralda and the La Maddalena Archipelago turns into a true aquatic theatre, drawing sailors and spectators from all around the globe. Highly anticipated competitions where the sea, wind, and passion for sailing merge in a triumph of action and beauty. Imagine sipping a drink on the terrace of the Capo d’Orso Hotel bar, watching gigantic sails compete in one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful regatta fields, nestled among the islands of the Archipelago and Porto Cervo. Sounds like a perfect plan, doesn’t it?

The 2024 Regatta Calendar and Must-See Events

From May 24th, Porto Cervo comes to life with the Sailing and Golf Trophy which kicks off the sporting season at YCCS. An event not to be missed that combines the sport of sailing with golf. The winning crew will be the one that scores the best, based on the sum of results obtained in the regatta and on the green.

June is a busy month: it starts with the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, an exclusive event for yachts over 90 feet lasting four days filled with surprises. An exclusive Welcome Cocktail will officially open the event on June 5th, followed by a gala dinner for the yacht owners and guests. Among the planned activities is also a “Cocktail Competition,” where crews compete to create the best cocktail, judged by three experts, and the Sunset Party, open to all regatta participants on June 7.

The J24 European Championship kicks off on June 10, featuring the J/24 monotype, among the most popular keelboats in sport sailing, in collaboration with the International and Italian J24 Class. To close the month, the Invitational Smeralda 888 and the Grand Soleil Cup, a friendly competition now in its 22 edition. Reserved for sailing yachts built by Cantiere del Pardo, the regatta is a must-attend for yacht owners and fans of the prestigious Italian shipyard.

July is no less exciting with the Smeralda 888 European Cup and a J70 Sailing Clinic aimed at enhancing participants’ skills. August’s events begin with the YCCS Members Championship from August 3 to 4, while on August 20 the racing field moves to Sicily for the “Palermo – Porto Cervo – Montecarlo,” a high-seas regatta among the most renowned in the Mediterranean Sea, part of numerous international circuits. Many world-famous boats, multi-Olympic sailors, and stars of the America’s Cup will pass through the gate in front of Porto Cervo and then cross the finish line in Montecarlo.

September is the month of great challenges with the 34 edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, gathering around 50 maxi yachts and world-renowned professional sailors in Porto Cervo, followed by the Rolex Swan Cup, which will host an international fleet representative of the entire Swan range. The season concludes in October with the Etchells Smeralda Cup and the Etchells European Championship, rounding off this intense calendar of events beautifully.

Why experience this spectacle?
Beyond the adrenaline of the competitions, there’s something magical about seeing these imposing vessels challenge the waves with grace and elegance. North Sardinia offers a unique opportunity to experience the sea in an exciting way, making every moment spent a true feast for the eyes and spirit.