The yachting world is made up of fantastic events, from roaring regattas to glamourous boat shows. However, one company that takes this to a whole new level is British builder of sailing yachts, Oyster Yachts. With on average two major sailing regattas planned per year for its owners, including the Oyster Regatta Palma and the Oyster Regatta Antigua, this is a brand that knows how to celebrate the boating lifestyle.
Earlier this month, the Palma Regatta took over parts of the Balearic Sea as Oyster owners raced each other to victory. A high-spirited event comprised of sailing and socialising in near equal measure, those lucky enough to attend now have a thousand amazing memories to reflect on. For those who didn’t make it this year, catch up on all the best bits below.
Highlights of the Oyster Regatta, Palma
Day One
Sunday (30th September) saw the Oyster Regatta, Palma kick off with a cocktail reception, welcoming the Oyster Family to the island. This was the first regatta the company had held since changing hands to new owner Richard Hadida in April, and Hadida was sure to put his own personal stamp on it.
After the new format was introduced, owners, families, crews and Oyster staff rocked out to company board member Eddie Jordan’s band, the Robbers. A truly incredible start to the Palma Regatta.
Day Two
Monday was the first day of Palma Regatta racing, and the 27-yacht fleet faced near-perfect Champagne sailing conditions as the luxury sailing yachts cruised around the bay of Palma.
As the day drew to a close it was time to head to Palma’s beautiful Bellver Castle for the first prize giving ceremony. Everyone swapped stories about the day’s events, sampled some delicious tapas and enjoyed lively flamenco dancing from the locals.
Day Three
Tuesday at the Oyster Palma Regatta saw the yachts race over to the ancient Mallorcan town of Andratx in a beautiful 20 - 25 knots, where an informal dock party awaited them. After an exciting day on the move, this was a chance for the fleet to kick back.
Day Four
The sailors raced the passage back from Andratx to the Real Club Náutico de Palma, again in 25 - 30 knots. The fleet decided to dress up for the occasion, and with costumes ranging from superheroes to leprechauns, the Palma Regatta yachts were a sight for sore eyes as they sailed to the finish. Wednesday’s evening plans involved unwinding with some mouth-watering paella and sangria.
Day Five
Thursday was the final day of the Oyster Regatta, Palma. Everyone took part in one last race around the island before evening celebrations at the magnificent Jardines de Alfabia, where the overall race winners were announced. After a delicious dinner, owners, crews, teams and partners danced the night away to the lively music of the Bogus Brothers - the perfect end to a perfect regatta.
A Clean Regatta
This year’s Palma Regatta was part of the Sailors for the Sea's Clean Regattas programme, aiming to minimise the impact the event had on the seas by reducing the use of single-use plastics. To achieve this, all caterers provided environmentally-sound alternatives to single-use plastics and there was a free drinking water refill station on the Palma dock. What’s more, yachts that were signed up for the Clean Regatta program received four durable, sustainable and reusable Oyster drinking bottles per yacht.
Ending on a high
From all the smiling faces, it looks like even those who didn’t win had an amazing time. Congratulations to everyone who took part, and to the Oyster owners out there - we’ll see you at the next event!
Sponsored by Oyster Yachts
Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) has launched its new flagship, the 47-meter RJ155 explorer yacht, marking the largest vessel to date from the Ancona-based builder. The launch follows the successful delivery of two RJ115 models (Stellamar and Pazienza) and the original RJ130 (now named Nuri).Designed by Francesco Paszkowski with interiors by Achille Salvagni, the RJ155 features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. Naval architecture by Pierluigi Ausonio incorporates twin Caterpillar C32 Acert EPA Tier 3 engines, providing a 5,000+ nautical mile range at 10 knots. The yacht carries 66,400 liters of fuel and utilizes CMC Marine stabilizers.Accommodation spans five suites for 12 guests, including an owner's cabin with private gym. Storage includes a large lazarette for toys and tender capacity. The design emphasizes indoor-outdoor connectivity through extended overhangs and shaded terraces."We're honored a returning client chose to upgrade from an RJ130 to this larger model," said Vasco Buonpensiere, CdM CEO. The RJ series has received industry recognition, with both RJ115 models winning World Superyacht Awards in 2024 and 2025.At 510 tons displacement and under 500 GT, the RJ155 maintains CdM's focus on expedition capabilities while expanding interior volume. The project represents the shipyard's continued specialization in long-range explorer yachts."Nothing speaks louder than a satisfied client who comes back," added Ennio Cecchini, CdM President. The RJ155 is scheduled for delivery following sea trials.CdM's story begins in 2010. The facilities cover an overall surface of 16˙000 square meters, including 7˙000 sq. m of workshops and 1˙000 sq. m of docks. Since 2015, the shipyard has been the world’s leading builder of explorer yachts. Based in Ancona, Cantiere delle Marche builds yachts from 26m to 43m in length.Credits: CdM
June 3, 2025
Florence-based Luca Dini Design & Architecture has completed interior design work for Ada Yacht Works' inaugural 50-meter superyacht, launched this week in Bodrum. The Turkish shipyard's flagship project features contemporary Italian styling with smoked oak paneling and polished white finishes."Interior design comes courtesy of Luca Dini Design & Architecture, who bring their signature blend of elegance, comfort, and contemporary Italian flair," stated Ada Yacht Works CEO Onur Tekin. The design incorporates Foglizzo leather details and furnishings from Poltrona Frau and Minotti. "We envisioned a yacht interior that feels timeless, welcoming, and true to its maritime context," said Luca Dini. "This is a space meant to be lived in, where materials not only express beauty but endure with grace."The yacht will begin sea trials shortly, with delivery scheduled for summer 2025. The project represents Ada Yacht Works' entry into the 50-meter-plus market segment.Credits: Luca Dini Design & Architecture
June 3, 2025
Mengi Yay Shipyard has successfully launched the Atlante Classic 35, a new explorer yacht designed for luxury expedition cruising. The vessel marks the shipyard’s first foray into the luxury yacht market following its traditional focus on commercial vessels.The 35-meter yacht features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, designed by Mengi Yay’s in-house team. The vessel is equipped with twin Caterpillar C18 engines, providing a top speed of 15 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. The yacht has a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots.The Atlante Classic 35 can accommodate up to 12 guests across 6 staterooms, including a master suite, VIP suite, and four guest cabins. The crew accommodation consists of 8 cabins for the crew of 10. The yacht features a spacious main deck saloon, an upper deck sky lounge, and an open flybridge with alfresco dining facilities.The interior design focuses on a contemporary style with natural materials and neutral tones. Key features include a large beach club area with a garage for water toys, a gym, and a spa area. The yacht is also equipped with zero-speed stabilizers for enhanced comfort at anchor.“The Atlante Classic 35 represents a significant milestone for Mengi Yay,” said Mehmet Mengi, CEO of Mengi Yay Shipyard. “We are proud to introduce our first luxury explorer yacht, combining our decades of experience in shipbuilding with modern technology and design.”The vessel is designed for worldwide exploration, featuring a shallow draft of 2.2 meters and a fuel capacity of 45,000 liters. The Atlante Classic 35 also incorporates advanced navigation systems and a state-of-the-art stabilization system.The yacht’s construction began in 2023, and after its launch, it will undergo extensive sea trials and final outfitting before delivery to its owner. The Atlante Classic 35 is expected to be completed in early 2025.Mengi Yay Shipyard, founded in 1972, is one of Turkey’s leading shipbuilders with a focus on commercial vessels. The launch of the Atlante Classic 35 marks the company’s expansion into the luxury yacht market.Credits: Mengi Yay
June 2, 2025
Moonen Yachts has secured the sale of its seventh 37.4-meter Martinique model (YN205) through IYC brokers Matthew Stone and Josh Marshall. The transaction marks the second in-house sale since IYC became Moonen's global sales representative.The American buyer selected the Dutch-built yacht for its customizable layout and indoor-outdoor connectivity. Construction will now extend beyond the original four-week delivery timeline to accommodate owner-requested modifications, including a hot tub installation."This sale demonstrates Moonen's flexibility in meeting client needs," said Matthew Stone, IYC Managing Partner. "The yard stood out among six competitors for its balance of quality, comfort and safety."Designed by René van der Velden with naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design, the 345GT Martinique features Hollander Yacht Design interiors. The yacht will undergo sea trials in the Netherlands before delivery to the U.S. East Coast later this year.Richard Gray, IYC's Head of Sales UK, noted: "This transaction reflects the effective collaboration between IYC and Moonen Yachts in our global representation partnership."The Martinique series continues to attract buyers seeking semi-custom steel-hulled yachts with Dutch engineering. Current construction progress indicates on-schedule completion of the customized modifications prior to sea trials.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
June 2, 2025
Turkish yacht builder Numarine has launched two new explorer yachts - the 37-meter 37XP (hull 18) and 26-meter 26XP (hull 27), with a 32.6-meter 32XP (hull 14) scheduled for June delivery. All models feature designs by Umberto Tagliavini (naval architecture) and Can Yalman (exterior/interior)."The XP Series remains one of the most successful explorer ranges in the industry," stated Numarine Chairman Ömer Malaz. "Our yachts from 22 to 47 meters combine stylish design with functional features including ample storage and noise reduction."37XPThe new 37XP flagship offers 362 GT volume and 6,000 nm range at 8 knots. Its layout includes seven guest cabins, with main deck master suite and upper deck VIP option. The 83 m² flybridge and 9-meter tender storage highlight its expedition capabilities.32XPThe 32XP model maintains its position as the series' original offering since 2017, with 4,000+ nm range and six-cabin configuration. The 26XP features four cabins and 3,000 nm range, with optional solar panels and lithium batteries.32XPAll three yachts utilize steel hulls with composite superstructures, emphasizing long-range cruising and onboard comfort. The launches precede the anticipated July 2025 debut of Numarine's new 40MXP model.26XPNumarine, a European high-performance motor-yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul, offers a range of yachts from 19 to 45 meters.Credits: Kerem Sanliman; Ryan Alexander; all provided by Numarine
June 2, 2025