Whether you are a novice or a full time sailing fanatic, a luxury yacht charter is a unique experience and one that is fast becoming ever more popular with regular and first time sailors. Not just stunning to look at, luxury sailing yachts are built with performance in mind. Sleek and powerful, these vessels are happiest when flying through the waves.

Luxury and comfort does not need to be compromised anymore on a luxury sailing yacht charter. New technologies and techniques ensure those onboard can expect the highest of standards are met without sacrificing on performance.

Sailing yachts are also much more economical when it comes to fuel consumption than their motor powered relatives making them both cheaper and more environmentally friendly to charter.

Regattas are great events to get the adrenaline flowing and are ideal for those seeking a little adventure whilst on holiday. Sailing is a sociable pastime and a regatta brings together like-minded individuals keen to experience these beautiful vessels doing what they were built to do.

Interested in competing next year? Here are a few of the best regattas in the world to sink your sails into –

Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta (19th – 24th April 2012)

Since the 1960’s Antigua has hosted this auspicious sailing regatta. Many make the decision to attend for the famous Caribbean welcome, climate and, of course, the rum. Contestants must compete with a full keel. Heavy displacement, traditional rig and have a vessel made out of wood or steel to qualify as a classic yacht. This regatta is all about the history.

Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta (4th – 9th June 2012)

Famed for its post-sailing socials the Loro Piana takes place in Porto Cervo, Sardinia. One of the most exclusive of regattas it has often been described as the ‘Olympics of sailing’.

Superyacht Cup Palma (20th – 23rd June 2012)

The capital of the Balearics, Palma is a city rich in history and culture, ideal to explore when not at sail. The finest sailing vessels from around the world congregate at this event every year and have been doing so for the last 16 years.

J Class Regatta (18th – 21st July 2012)

The Royal Southampton Yacht Club, the club that hosted the original J class racing events way back in the 1930’s still celebrates this exquisite sailing vessel to this day. Three races are to be held, one around Christchurch Bay, one into Hayling Bay and a hundred guinea cup race around the Isle of Wight.

The Superyacht Cup Cowes (22nd – 25th July 2012)

Another sailing regatta to take place around the Isle of Wight and its Solent the Super Cup Cowes is similar to the J Class regatta in that it takes place over three days. However it also includes social functions and organised events.

Participants of this year’s cup will also have the opportunity to witness the start of the sailing Olympics in Weymouth.

Les Voiles De Saint Tropez (29th September – 7th October 2012)

Often the event that announces the end to the season for many in the Mediterranean, Les Voiles is as fun to watch as it is compete in. Those interested in just the atmosphere can do little better than being onboard watching the 300 or more yachts at close proximity.

The following vassals are currently taking part in a number of these auspicious regattas next year but are also available for luxury yacht charter when not booked:

The S/Y Athos
This sleek and powerful schooner was built just last year and is brimming with technology and toys. Measuring 62m she can accommodate up to 10 sleeping guests and 9 crew and reach speeds of up to 14 knots. Generous outside space is matched by a stunning large and impeccably furnished below deck living quarters. Available from 180,000EUR per week.

The S/Y Bliss
This luxury sloop was designed by the Dubois Naval Architects and constructed by Yachting Developments NZ and is widely considered one of the finest examples in her class.

Launched in 2009 her sleek lines and modern design make her both an appealing yacht to look at and sail. Able to accommodate 10 sleeping guests and 4 crew she is available for classic sailing yacht charter from 65,000EUR per week during the summer months and $89,000 during the winter season.

The S/Y Windrose
Built to win races the Windrose is an ideal sailing yacht to charter in a regatta. Offering outstanding performance under sail the Windrose effortlessly combines this winning mentality with luxury, style and grace.

Built in 2001 the Windrose’s handcrafted interior and sleek lines is reminisce of a bygone era but with technology entirely 21st century. Able to sleep 8 guests and 7 crew, life onboard can be made very comfortable. Available from 59,000EUR per week in summer season and 62,500EUR in winter.

For more info on luxury yachts for charter please go to TPI Charter