Despite the Unfurled superyacht was the last vessel to cross the start line of today’s Pantaenius sponsored Race 1 of the Superyacht Cup Cowes, the crew of the 34m Royal Huisman constructed sailing yacht Unfurled found their way through difficult light air conditions to take first place on a shortened course.

34m superyacht Unfurled by Royal Huisman Photo Credit: Claire Matches

As the early morning mist lifted with blue skies above, the fleet were started from the Royal Yacht Squadron line  at 1105 with the 45m Briand charter yacht Mari Cha III crossing the start first headed to the Eastern Solent on the longer course toward the NAB tower. As the rest of the fleet followed with Unfurled last over the start line, the yachts progressed slowly up the course helped by the flood tide towards the first mark at North Sturbridge.

Due to the lack of consistent wind and the imminent tidal change, the decision was however taken by the race committee to shorten the course. Unfurled were finished between Warner and the committee boat at 1415. They were followed by charter yacht Leopard 3 four minutes later and Hamilton finishing at 1504. Athos superyacht, who had to put in an extra tack to lay the finish line, finished fourth at 1512. The remaining fleet retired from the race or were unable to reach the finish.

Crew aboard Athos superyacht Photo Credit: Claire Matches

The forecast for tomorrow is also for light winds but as the temperature increases throughout the week, it is hoped the sea breeze will fill in to provide some better wind conditions for the fleet.