A great Mediterranean classic, the Primo Cup – Trophée Credit Suisse, started in 1985 by the Yacht Club de Monaco’s President, HSH Prince Albert II, the event hosts Europe’s elite in the one-design world for two weekends – a major regatta in Monaco that kick-starts the international race season.

While it may be one of the biggest events in Europe, with some 1,000 sailors from 18 countries expected, it is also still one of very few competitions to bring enthusiastic amateurs, professionals and leading figures in sailing together on the same body of water.

More than 180 boats, divided into 12 classes over two weekends, race in the bay outside Port Hercule. On January 30-February 1, racing is for the Dragons, Stars, SB20s, Surprises, Smeralda 888s and IRC (classes 3 & 4). On February 6-8, the J/70s, Melges 20s, Platu 25s, Longtze Premiers and IRC (classes 1 & 2) compete.

Photos by © YCM/Carlo Borlenghi-Luca Butto.