Photographer Kurt Arrigo has shared his selection of highlights from the inaugural Cyclades Cup, the first-ever superyacht regatta held in the picturesque waters of Antiparos, Greece.
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The first Cyclades Cup was held 14 to 16 June on the island of Antiparos as an officially sanctioned event of the Super Yacht Racing Association.
This historic event brought together some of the world’s most magnificent superyachts offering a unique opportunity for owners, guests, captains and crews to come together in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere to celebrate sailing at one of the world’s most spectacular locations.
Antiparos is a small Greek island situated just one nautical mile from Paros island and known for its distinctive beauty. Narrow cobbled stone alleys and streets, white-washed houses decorated with thriving pink and purple bougainvilleas and shadowy eucalyptus trees create an enchanting atmosphere in Antiparos town.
Racing was separated into three racing divisions, Apollo, Skyphians, and Meltemi class, each named after a feature of Greek Mythology that represented best the yachts in each division.
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The Apollo class of yachts was comprised of grand, beautiful yachts over 30 metres, worthy of Apollo, the ancient Greek god of beauty, while the Skyphian class, named after the Poseidon’s horse, was made up of yachts over 80 feet that are versatile and swift.
The Meltemi class encompassed the performance sloops of unrivalled speed that feel most at home with a brisk meltemi, the etesian wind of the Aegean, on their swart sails.
After three extremely full days that included superyacht racing by day and dinners at spectacular venues by night, the first superyacht regatta in Greece came to its conclusion with a prize-giving ceremony to remember at the Antiparos primary school.
The Grand Prize, a replica Cycladic head, formed of brilliant Parian white marble, from the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens, was given to the Head of the Fleet, the yacht Tawera of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, owned by Mike Mahoney for winning both his racing division and winning by the biggest cumulative margin in corrected time. Results available here.
Arrigo stated, “Having captured many regattas over the years, this one truly stands out. Over the course of the regatta, the yachts competed fiercely, navigating through the turquoise waters that make this region so enchanting.
“The combination of skilful sailing and the breathtaking scenery created an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
“Capturing the yachts in action, each shot reflects the elegance and power of these majestic vessels, framed by the beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear waters that define Antiparos.
“The Cyclades Cup 2024 has set a new standard for regattas in the region, promising to be a key event in the international sailing calendar for years to come.”
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