Where everyone wants to go

by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
I learned about Ibiza when my son did a college semester in Spain. Rather than taking in the culture of Florence, he headed for the nightlife, beaches, and clubs of this Balearic Island. I was torn between questioning higher education and wishing for a personal do-over.

The superyacht crowd is also drawn to these crystal-clear waters for some of the most beautiful racing in the Mediterranean. It was not long ago when racing these mega maxis required pursuit starts and other rules to keep them apart, but improved design now has them racing like boats. Just really big boats.

The ‘White Isle’ hosts Ibiza JoySail, which marks the end of the northern hemisphere superyacht season. With limited space, this invitation-only event has for the past five years enjoyed steady growth, with 2025 being the biggest edition with 22 of the 100+/- foot yachts for the racing on September 18-21.

“It is remarkable that this event has grown so quickly – from just four boats five years ago,” shared Race Director Nacho Postigo. “Who would have thought that we would get to this point and become such a coveted event in the superyacht calendar?

“I think the success of Ibiza JoySail has been down to a combination four key factors: The first is the dates – coming at the end of the European superyacht season, secondly the venue, which is incredibly special. Thirdly, there is an equality on the water that both owners and crew really appreciate, and finally, the quality of the onshore entertainment and facilities.

“We don’t want the event to get any bigger. For us it is important that the boats are moored all together, and we don’t want to affect the quality of the offering on the water. Limiting the fleet to 22 means that we can handle one start and one single race area, which means that we can quickly adapt the racecourse to find the best conditions.

“Also, we want to ensure the intimacy of our events on shore so that our owners and crews are invited to everything. That has become an attractive hallmark of the event.”

Shirley Robertson, Manager of the Superyacht Racing Association, is impressed. “Everyone wants to come here and there are yachts, owners and crew from all over the world. A great mix professional, round the world. Americas Cup sailors, and just families and friends getting into racing, and enjoying their yachts.”

Details: https://ibizajoysail.com/