A handful of high-profile regattas attract sailing superyacht owners and their crews each year. Lesser-known but still thrilling races are on the calendar as well, with Ibiza JoySail being one of them. The sixth-annual race kicks off in Spain in six months, with 13 competitors confirmed so far.
Even though it’s a race, Ibiza JoySail, off the coasts of Ibiza and Formentera, has a different ambience than others. In fact, owners, their friends, and their families are encouraged to be aboard the yachts. Simultaneously, the pace is more relaxed. Yachts compete under Corinthian rules, too. This permits the yachts and crews to race without any modifications.
This year’s Ibiza JoySail, from September 17 to 20, already has attracted participants from 89 to 131 feet (27 to 40 meters). Four of the competitors are Southern Wind Shipyard deliveries: Gelliceaux, Kalantis, Liberty Squared, and Morgana. Two others are from Vitters Shipyard, namely Cervo and Inoui. The well-known—and aptly named—Win Win, a Baltic Yachts delivery, is further among the racers. All 13 of the confirmed competitors have signed up since entries opened in late January.
Since a total of 20 yachts can participate, the organizers are fielding interest from several more owners and crews. Notably, more than one of the conversations started well before the end of January, according to Ana Teske, part of the organizing team. “We’re witnessing a tremendous level of enthusiasm from captains and owners alike,” she says. “Many had already signaled their intention to take part even before entries were officially opened, a clear reflection of the connection and the degree of trust that the regatta has cultivated edition after edition.”
Marina Ibiza will host the yachts for all four days of racing, along with the daily social events. The highlights from last year (see video) may help settle undecided participation. So should the chance to win the Perpetual Trophy. It goes to the yacht completing the Mallorca-Ibiza crossing the fastest. The official record-attempt window opens August 15, closing September 16.
Ibiza JoySail ibizajoysail.com
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