Dutch superyacht builder Royal Huisman has cancelled an owner’s regatta that was to take place off the Villa de Rothschild along France’s Cote d’Azur following events in the US.

Twelve Huisman built yachts including Hyperion, Juliet and Lethantia (ex Borkumriff III) were to gather off the Villa de Rothschild for a weekend of racing and a beach party anchored off Pampalona Beach. However Wolter Huisman said: “With the catastrophic events in the United States we could not see ourselves, with so many of our American customers in a party atmosphere and the decision to cancel was obvious and has been appreciated.”

This was also to be the week that Huisman’s recently completed 90m construction hall was to be officially opened by commissioner Hendrikx, representative of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. Built in time to construct the 89m three-mast schooner Athena the halls opening celebrations have been postponed indefinitely.

“When I called Mr. Hendrikx to inform him of my decision, he was both supportive and in total agreement,” said Wolter Huisman. “This is not a time to celebrate. The United States has been a strong customer base for the shipyard and a great supporter to Holland throughout history. My team at the yard send heart felt sympathy to those who have lost family and friends during this disastrous incident.”