Mastercard Superyacht Regatta ready to set sail

The Waitemata Harbour is one of the most picturesque harbours for sailing anywhere in the world © vor Wilkins/Offshore Images

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Mastercard Superyacht Regatta and Motoryacht Challenge are both ready to set sail - and start their engines - next week in Auckland as the first superyacht regatta in the world for over a year takes place in Auckland, New Zealand.

With the recent uncertainty around the Prada Cup Final racing days, and the COVID-19 Alert Level Restrictions in Auckland, the RNZYS is thrilled to confirm that the event is going ahead as planned between the 23rd – 27th February. A further update on this HERE

For the Mastercard Superyacht Regatta, the RNZYS has secured eight spectacular superyachts to compete, including: Tawera, Sassafras, Aschanti IV, Silvertip, Catalina, Miss Silver, Imagine, and Whirlwind. All of these entries are going to be a sight to behold on the Hauraki Gulf, and are all very different and beautiful in their own way. From the classic Aschanti IV, to the fine lines of Miss Silver, there will be a bit of everything on the course come Wednesday morning.

The regatta includes four days of racing, including two races on two days (Wednesday 24th & Friday 26th) and one race on the other two days (Thursday 25th & Saturday 27th). The course area’s take in the vast waters of the Hauraki Gulf, with the fleet able to take in the scenery and many idyllic islands the gulf has to offer as they tack and gybe their way around the track. Racing will begin at 11am each morning, and for those not able to make it out on the water, a live stream of the action will be available to view via the RNZYS Facebook Page.

Entry for the regatta is still open for last minute entries. For more details about the Mastercard Superyacht Regatta, including the full sailing programme, please the official website HERE

The Mastercard Motoryacht Challenge is being described as an amazing race style event for motoryacht owners and crews, with two fun action-packed days planned on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th February. The event will take the entrants on a full tour of the Hauraki Gulf, with six unique stages built in across the two days. Activities include fishing, tree planting at Kawau Island, climbing our dormant volcano Rangitoto, hitting fish food golf balls, a visit to Man o War Bay on Waiheke for a wild foods and wine experience, a sprint race, and many more surprises.

Currently there are four eye-watering vessels confirmed including: Bold, Masteka II, and two more both named Integrity. Entry is still open to motor yachts over 24 metres. More details and entry HERE

Off the water will also be a treat, as the RNZYS has gone above and beyond to create a truly unique off water calendar of events for everyone to enjoy. Live music, daily entertainment, prizegiving’s and sundowner sessions with Auckland’s best DJ’s will complete the perfect setting to enjoy the very best of New Zealand wine and food.

The RNZYS have a stunning range of sponsors for this event, from world leaders in the yachting industry and fashion, to local leaders in real estate, eco products and more. See the full sponsor list on our website HERE

With the weather looking outstanding for next week, the RNZYS is very much looking forward to putting on what is going to be a world class superyacht regatta and motoryacht challenge that will showcase Auckland, and our stunning marine environment, to the world.