The Primo Cup – Credit Suisse Trophy Regatta, now in its 22nd year, starts tomorrow with the first weekend’s racing. Hosted by Yacht Club de Monaco, this event marks opening of the Mediterranean Yachting Season with 11 selected one-designs taking part.

The Dragon, Bénéteau 25, J/24, Mumm 30, Smeralda 888, Star, Surprise, Melges 24 and First Class 7.5 will be joined this year by two new classes: the Laser SB3and the First 40.7. A total of 200 boats from 15 nationalities are expected to take part over the two weekends with the Star, Surprise, J/24, Laser SB3, and Dragons kicking off the regatta from 3-5 February. Racing for Mumm 30, Melges 24, First Class 7.5, First 40.7, Bénéteau 25, and Smeralda 888 classes takes place the following weekend from 10-12 February.

The one thousand or so competitors include strong contingents from Germany, Sweden, Finland, Holland, Ireland, Austria, and Russia.

For a second consecutive year there will be a fleet of 30 plus Dragons taking part. Among entries is Munegu, a Dragon presented to HSH Prince Albert II during the 2005 Monaco Classic Week; she will be crewed by YCM members. This year will also see a good showing of British and Irish competitors.