The grand season of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge, the most widely recognized international circuit of regattas reserved to classical and vintage yachts, is about to begin. As for the past years, the 14th edition will host a rich programme, featuring ten regattas around the most fascinating Mediterranean destinations and along the shores of New England, in the US.
Officine Panerai renews its international commitment to classic sailing, a truly exclusive community bringing together sailing enthusiasts from across the world sharing their passion for the sea and the respect for traditions. Every leg of the season becomes a showcase for the “great ladies” of the sea adding touches of colour to the docks and shores hosting the circuit.
By tradition, the 2018 programme of Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge consists of two circuits: the Mediterranean Circuit, with regattas in Antibes (France), Porto Santo Stefano (Italy), Imperia (Italy) and Cannes (France). In 2017 Hallowe’en, Linnet and Ganbare won the coveted trophy, adding their name to the list of winners. On the other side of the Atlantic, Sonny and Valiant were the winners of the North American Circuit, with regattas in Marblehead, Newport, Nantucket and Bristol.
The legendary Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes, Isle of Wight, will complete the event’s calendar. Falling outside the other two circuits for geographical reasons, this spectacular regatta in the Solent waters sees dozens of sailing yachts compete in a solemnly dignified atmosphere.
Once again, the undisputed protagonist of the Mediterranean Circuit will be Eilean, the Bermudian ketch purchased and restored by Officine Panerai in 2006, now acting as international ambassador of classic sailing and of the annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives supported by Panerai, in cooperation with not-for-profit organizations.
The Antibes opening regatta will see the participation of Moonbeam IV, recently purchased by the ship owner of Amadour. Eager to conquer the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge title, Moonbeam will throw down the gauntlet to all racers, including old-time friends of the circuit Santana, Dorade, Stormy Weather,
Enterprise and Comet.
Furthermore, Panerai has just announced another unmissable season appointment for all classic sailing enthusiasts: the Panerai Transat Classique 2019, a transatlantic regatta for vintage sailing yachts from Lanzarote to Christophe Harbour in St Kitts. The yachts will gather on 8 January 2019 in Arrecife, the island’s capital town, and will sail on to Christophe Harbour in the Lesser Antilles.
As the first leg of this exciting season begins, we look forward to closely following every single regatta and discovering the heroes of the sea. See you in Antibes!
