● Ibiza JoySail, the newest superyacht regatta in the Med, is marking its fourth edition from 19 to 22 September.
● Ibiza and Formentera are the perfect setting for a race of this ilk thanks to their stunning seascapes, their truly unique atmosphere, and their luxe appeal.
The waters of the Balearic Islands are getting ready to play host to the fourth edition of one of the Mediterranean’s most exclusive regattas: Ibiza JoySail. This is an invitation-only event, with entries having been confirmed for weeks now, and will be drawing in some of the world’s greatest superyachts to Marina Ibiza between 19 and 22 September.
The four-day race has in just four years has become one of the most desirable events in the Med thanks to its high level of competition, the laid-back nature of the shoreside events, and — without a shadow of doubt — the truly spectacular coastlines of Ibiza and Formentera. New this year is the chance for entrants to compete for a sought-after record with an additional race from Mallorca to Ibiza. The organising committee has set a thirty-day window to do so from 21 August, giving teams the option to choose the best day on which their yacht will perform to the max.
Breathtaking coastline
The crystal-clear turquoise sea of the Balearic Islands is definitely one of the main attractions of the event. Both Mallorca and Ibiza, and particularly Formentera, are famous the world over for their transparent waters and picture-postcard beaches. These Mediterranean islands are also home to a native plant found nowhere else in the world, which is even considered a marine treasure: we’re talking about the Posidonia seagrass, responsible for the sparkle and extraordinary cleanliness of the sea.
Es Vedrà, S’Espalmador, and the Tagomago Lighthouse will be some of the backdrops that will wow participants during Ibiza JoySail, which offers nearshore and offshore racing between Ibiza and Formentera, with breathtaking panoramas to match the thrill of the competition.
Ibiza boasts pristine beaches and secluded coves, some of them only accessible by boat, such as Cala Xarraca, Cala Albarca, and Cala d’en Serra. And just eleven miles away are the Ses Illetes and Levante beaches in Formentera, an island nicknamed “the last paradise in the Mediterranean” thanks its white beaches and unspoiled landscapes.
It goes without saying that the seascapes in this area are unrivalled, but the islands themselves also offer endless possibilities for leisure and culture on dry land, not to mention a stunning cuisine that uses local produce to create traditional flavours.
Ibizan nights
September is the perfect month for Ibiza JoySail, famous for its ‘family & friends’ spirit and its magical evening entertainment programme for owners and crew over the four days of the event in the privileged setting of Marina Ibiza.
The island still retains the allure of its golden years, attracting craftspeople, painters, designers, photographers, musicians and writers every year in search of inspiration to continue creating their art. A vibrant, bohemian, and sophisticated atmosphere all rolled into one, making it simply the best setting for this exclusive race.
In terms of dining, local products take centre stage, and traditional flavours are fused with avant-garde techniques. Of course, Ibiza JoySail is also the perfect opportunity to try out some of the island’s leading restaurants.
A World Heritage Site old town
The iconic views of Dalt Vila from the race village on the Alfa dock in Marina Ibiza will accompany crews throughout the day, as this is where the participating yachts will be berthed and where the captains’ briefing and awards ceremony will be held.
The old town was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999 thanks to its Renaissance walls (which have seen the arrival of Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Muslims), its romantic maze-like streets, and its thirteenth-century cathedral, among many other reasons.
What’s more, the off-the-beaten-track inland Ibiza is home to wonderfully gorgeous villages, some of which are part of the ‘white churches route’, named after the temples that were once used for refuge from pirate attacks.
Over in Formentera, Sant Francesc, Sant Ferran and Pilar de la Mola are villages that still boast the laid-back and hippy island vibe that invites visitors to enjoy an endless summer.
The Golden Mile
In recent years, Marina Ibiza has become a hub of exclusivity and luxury, and one of the landmark marinas in the Mediterranean. This also adds to the glamourous and chic atmosphere surrounding the regatta.
The central plaza of Marina Ibiza, also known as the Golden Mile of Ibiza, is home to boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Bulgari, Gucci, Dior, Loro Piana, Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent, which each year showcase capsule collections designed especially for Ibiza and impossible to buy anywhere else in the world.
About Ibiza JoySail
Launched in 2021, the inaugural edition featured four superyachts, while eleven yachts competed in 2022 and thirteen yachts took part in 2023. This year, the entry list is record-breaking, with a total of twenty yachts, including devotees such as Moat, Bliss, and Dark Horse, alongside newbies like the impressive 60-metre (194-foot) Maximus, the 45-metre (147-foot) Gitana, and the three new 21-metre (68-foot) Baltic Café Racers, who have all been attracted by the event’s reputation and a desire to race in such a breathtaking setting.
Admiring twenty yachts of this ilk sailing together around Ibiza and Formentera will truly be an unforgettable extravaganza.