The first day of the Superyacht Cup in Palma took place in a fresh 15-18 knot breeze yesterday and a total of 17 superyachts took part. Celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year’s event has attracted a record fleet with nine yachts over 35m in length.

The first day of the event sponsored by Fortis Yacht Group provided the yachts with some thrilling sailing in varied conditions, from sunshine to rain showers and even a display of impressive water spouts on the horizon.

After each yacht was given its start time at the Captains briefing, it was Anny, a 26m Baltic Yacht, which led the fleet away from the start line at 1300. Second across the start was ‘Metolius’ (25.4m Royal Huisman) followed by ‘Yanakee II’ (35m), ‘Aphrodite A’ (43m) and ‘Hyperion’ (47.4m). The best start was made by the 34m Sparkman & Stevens design ‘Zingaro’ crossing the line exactly on their allotted start time.

The fleet was sent off to the East of the Bay of Palma passing the eastern marks before a shy reach to round the Isle de Sech, and a final beat to the finish. As the fleet reached across the bay, gusts over 20 knots shifting slightly to the North East enabled a few of the yachts to set spinnakers.

First around the Isle de Sech was the 47m Bruce King designed ‘Sheherezade’, followed by Metolius (Royal Huisman 25m) and Victoria of Strathearn (Alloy Yachts 39m). The leading boats then split with Metolius staying inshore and the 29.9m Nautor’s Swan Virago heading out to sea. As the fleet closed towards the finish under a dying breeze, Virago carved out a lead to cross the line first, helmed by proud owner Stuart Townsend (US). Second over the line was Metolius followed a mere four seconds later by Scheherezade in third place.

Sailing continues today and Saturday.