Last month saw the most successful Palma Superyacht and Boat Show ever, both in terms of the yachts on show and the attendance. The only blot on the landscape was a deluge of rain and hailstones on the final day, but even that failed to dampen the enthusiasm of all those I spoke to.

We had a stand for the first time, which proved a great success enabling us to meet many new contacts which will stand us in good stead, I’m sure. The new layout, with the floating bridge was a huge improvement to the show, giving a much better flow and footfall to the whole show. Great credit to the organisers for this addition.

The show now boasts the largest number of sailboat Superyachts on the planet, with over 60 on show, including the beautiful Shenandoah, a real cracker of a classic yacht. The comment I heard most all week, with which I agree, is “The show has now grown up into a REAL Boatshow and can stand side by side with any other international show”. My only comment is that the show is still not a member of IFBSO (International Federation of Boat Shows) and is therefore not on the International Calendar of Boatshows. This means that we are missing out hugely on International media coverage, as well as international visitors. I cannot understand the reluctance of the organisers to join the association, apart from maybe having to have all attendance figures audited.

Following on immediately after the show was the first major Regatta of the Med season, Palma Vela. Unfortunately, the weather gods weren’t quite as kind as they had been for most of the show, and the fleet were having to contend with lots of rain, fickle winds and cold temperatures, not a graet advert for Med sailing!! However, this did not deter the RCNP from laying on their customary excellence in regatta organisation. We really are so lucky here in Palma to have one of the best yacht Clubs on the planet as well as the best race committee. Well done.

The MYBA charter show in Barcelona, immediately preceding the Palma Show was another success, building on last year’s first effort. Great location and layout, together with efficient and friendly organisation makes this show a must for those entitled to visit. We have a report on this and the LYBRA show later in this issue.

This month will see my favourite regatta of the year here in Palma, The Superyacht Cup. Graced by the presence of two J Class yachts, this will provide some great action for sailors and spectators alike. The Islander RIB will be out everyday with professional photographers on board and you will see the fruits of our labour in next month’s issue !

Fair Winds !