From September 4th to 7th, 2024, Barcelona will transform into the heart of classic sailing as it hosts the 17th Edition of the Puig Vela Clàssica Regatta. This year's event is particularly special, aligning with the America’s Cup calendar, where Puig serves as a Global Sponsor for the 37th edition of the legendary competition. The stage is set for an unforgettable spectacle—a fusion of tradition, elegance, and spirited competition on the Mediterranean.
Organized by Puig in collaboration with the Real Club Náutico de Barcelona (RCNB), the Puig Vela Clàssica has become a crown jewel in the world of traditional sailing. The regatta has earned its status as a global benchmark for its pivotal role in preserving nautical heritage and time-honored traditions.
This year’s edition promises to be one of the most unique yet, coinciding with the preliminary regattas of the 37th America's Cup. A record fleet of nearly 80 historic sailboats from 17 different countries will grace the shores of Barcelona. Over four days, both locals and visitors will witness these majestic yachts, manned by over 900 sailors, racing for victory. Among the fleet are renowned names like Argyll, Argos, Ojalá II, Legolas, and Viveka—veterans of previous editions and icons on the international regatta circuit.
The competition will unfold across nine distinct categories: Classics, Classic IOR, Bermudian Period, Gaff Period, Big Boats, Modern Classics, 15M JI, P Class, and the revered 12M class.
A Triumphant Return for the 12M Class
This year, the regatta is marked by the highly anticipated return of the legendary 12M class, a category steeped in history. These iconic vessels, which dominated the America’s Cup from 1958 to 1987, have been at the center of some of the most memorable and fiercely contested duels in sailing history. The Puig Vela Clàssica Regatta shares a special connection with this class, having hosted its World Championship during Puig's 100th anniversary celebration. In 2024, these extraordinary boats will once again take to the waters of Barcelona, promising a nautical experience like no other.
Up to 13 of these 12M yachts will compete in real-time, with no time handicaps, heightening the excitement for spectators. The fleet includes recent world champions Kookaburra II (KA12) and Northern Light (US14), along with other storied vessels such as South Australia (KA-8), French Kiss, and Kiwi Magic. Their presence underscores the seamless blend of tradition and modernity that defines the Puig Vela Clàssica Regatta, making this year's edition a highlight in the sailing calendar and an event not to be missed.