Southern Wind: a slow start evolved into an exhilarating Day 3

A slow start, with the warning signal delayed until 13:00, evolved into a third day of exhilarating racing at the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta and Southern Wind Rendezvous.

Despite initial uncertainty from the Race Committee, following a light mid-morning breeze of just 3–5 knots, the decision to proceed proved to be an excellent one. A short course was set, featuring Alpha Mark positioned east of Capo Ferro, before leading the fleet into the channel between Isola delle Bisce and the Vecchio Faro.

Gennakers were hoisted once again for most of the second and third legs, followed by a fast and tactical upwind stretch to the finish line, located back at the starting area. The fleet covered a compact yet demanding 10.85 nautical miles, with the superyachts racing in close proximity.

In the White Class, SW96 Liberty proved unstoppable, crossing the finish line in commanding style ahead of the six other yachts in the class. SW105 Sorvind secured third place, followed by SW94 Magic Blue in fourth.

It was another outstanding day of competition for the SY Blue and SY White racing fleets, offering crews the perfect opportunity to test tactics and adapt to rapidly changing conditions in a spirited and enjoyable atmosphere.

In the overall Southern Wind standings, SW96 Liberty leads comfortably, followed by SW108 Gelliceaux, SW108 Kalantis, and RP-Nauta 100 Morgana. With just one day remaining, the winner of the 2026 Rendezvous & Trophy is yet to be decided.

At 17:30, following a quick turnaround on board, the owners and some crew members were invited to the YCCS Sala Azzurra for the scheduled Southern Wind Tech Talk, where CCO Andrea Micheli and Commercial Manager Jeremy Peek presented the innovations that are shaping the company's future. 

The day concluded with a relaxed cocktail reception on the upper terrace of the YCCS, where refreshing AIX Rosé was served.