From March 20-23, the bright, azure waters of the British Virgin Islands played host to a breath-taking fleet of twenty sailing yachts and seven motorized yachts for the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous, organized by Boat International Media and the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. For Loro Piana, the race also marked the company’s second consecutive year as title sponsor, a direct reflection of the Loro Piana family’s personal affinity for the sea and sailing.
The number of available slots for the race was extremely limited; no more than 30 of the largest sail and motor yachts, all 80 feet or more, were included. While the actual race was restricted to sail yachts only, motor yachts were invited to follow the race in real-time and enjoy the idyllic waters and fair winds of the Sir Francis Drake channel. An itinerary of events gave guests the opportunity to mingle along the islands while enjoying cocktails, fine dining, and light-hearted nautical games.
Loro Piana’s presentation at the yacht club came in two parts, a booth with a preview of its gift collection and Loro Piana Interiors (upholstery and fabrics made from the very same fine cashmere and natural fibers you would expect from the brand). Items from the gift collection were curated for the seafaring group: cotton velour My Toys towels, travel games made with soft cashmere felts, N.P.E.L.P. My Sunglasses N°0 in titanium, My First Cashmere collectible miniatures, and the My Balloon, My Boat, and My Toys bags made in cotton canvas and natural calf leather.
Among the sailing fleet was 2011 winner of the Loro Piana regatta in Porto Cervo and also last year’s Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous winner, Indio. Other entrants included a 42-meter Hanuman, a J Class Endeavor, a Parisfal 3 and a Southern Wind 100. Preset courses tested both the yacht and its crew’s ability to navigate on the open water, and by the final day the excitement had reached fever pitch as both spectators and crew members anxiously awaited the announcement of the victors.
Taking first place in the Cruising Class within Division A was Salperton IV, while Cape Arrow and P2 grabbed a respectable second and third place. Division B saw Bolero in first with Athos at second and Sarafin taking third. In the Division A proper, Salperton IV again took first with Cape Arrow in second and Hanuman in third. The Boat International Media Trophy was also awarded to Salperton IV, giving the 45 meter yacht the majority of wins.
