30 of the world’s most magnificent sailing superyachts – ranging in length from 28 to 56 metres – united in Gustavia for the 31st edition of the St Barths Bucket Regatta.
To accommodate the forecasted light air on day one, organizers assigned the shortest course choices for an around-the-island race that saw 26 superyachts compete in seven classes.
A second day of light air saw more custom courses in order to get the yachts racing, but a call to start earlier on day three finally brought champagne sailing conditions.
“If you looked at the three-day forecast on Thursday, you would have said the racing was not going to happen,” said Hyperion’s Captain Nico Jacklein. “Everyone plans long-term for this – we book everything out a year in advance – so we’re all going to be here, wind or not. We’re just happy and proud of the organizers for pulling a rabbit out of the hat and managing three races. We also didn’t expect to win the Bucket Trophy.”
Social events throughout the week included the famous ‘Bucket Bash’, Owners’ Reception, and Prize Giving Party.
RESULTS
Best starter of the week – Symmetry
Owner driver – Gitana
Les cents pieds – V
Les gazelles – Velsheda
Les elegantes – Hyperion
Les petites dames – hummingbird
L’esprit – Vijonara
Les mademoisellse – whisper
Le grande dames – Panthalassa
Overall winner – demonstrating commitment to the spirit of the bucket – Hyperion
Photos by Martin Baum / Pantaenius