Rolex IMS Offshore Worlds start today

Yachts gathering in Capri

70 yachts representing ten nations are set to begin racing today in the Rolex IMS Worlds, in the Gulf of Naples, off Capri.

Running until 22 May, the event is organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in collaboration with the Yacht Club Capri and sponsored by Rolex, title sponsor of the event since it was established in 1999.

Countries represented at this year’s event include Croatia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Norway, Spain, the USA and Uruguay. In addition to the American boat Talisman, there is much anticipation for the upcoming performances of the German Westwind owned by Peter Suselbeck, the French Near Miss with Thierry Peponnet at the helm, the Greek yacht Okyalos XIII and the Norwegian Fram XV.

The winners from last year have returned to defend their title: Telefonica Movistar owned by Pedro Campos and Vasco Vascotto at the helm of Meridiana, a brand new Grand Soleil launched a few weeks ago.

Many of the larger yachts are not taking part this year as the event clashes with the Zegna Trophy in Porto Fino.

Today's racing will include two inshore events, while Tuesday through until Wedneday will be the offshore race. Thursday is a layday or reserve days, while more racing in the Gulf of Naples will take place on the Friday and the Saturday.

For the first time, this year’s event will operate under the ISAF classification code that divides the participating boats into two categories: 'corinthian' (with only one professional sailor on board, but not at the helm) and 'non-corinthian' (with two or more professional sailors).

Alongside the five days of racing, there is a full social calendar of events ashore including the traditional 'Serata Sarda' held on the quay and this year, featuring the the cuisine of the Monte Acuto region.

To see the full entry list - click here