Ibiza JoySail Exceeds Expectations and Closes the Mediterranean Superyacht Season in Style

The fourth edition of Ibiza JoySail has been a resounding success, establishing itself as one of the most prominent nautical events on the calendar. With a record participation of eighteen superyachts, including the largest ever to compete in the event, thrilling regattas, and a hospitality program for 400 participants, sponsors, and organizers, this event has closed the Mediterranean superyacht season in style.

Intense Competition on the Water

The competition on the water was intense, with more than half of the fleet sailing in Corinthian (non-professional) mode. However, the rivalry at sea was balanced by a relaxed atmosphere on land, a hallmark of Ibiza JoySail that attracts owners and crews alike.

Tony Rey, tactician of the impressive Maximus, a 195-foot twin-masted ketch designed by German Frers, shared his experience: "Ibiza is one of the most spectacular places to sail in Europe. This is my first time at Ibiza JoySail, and it’s magnificent. Our team is having a great time, the parties are fun. It has everything you could ask for."

Notable Victories

In the Performance class, the Moat, a Swan 115, claimed victory, achieving four wins in the four editions of Ibiza JoySail it has participated in. Juan Ball, owner of the Moat, commented: "This year was significant because there are more boats, which means more competition. The organization was excellent, and seeing all these boats of different sizes is something you don’t see anywhere else."

World Cruising Classes

In the World Cruising classes, the Swan 100 L’Hippocampe won in the World Cruising L class, securing three first-place finishes in each of the three regattas. Ella Holmes, captain of the L’Hippocampe, noted: "We’re sailing really well as a team. It’s been a very enjoyable social event."

In the World Cruising XL class, the Dubois 120 Bliss maintained its lead with a third victory, followed by the Dystra 111 Aurelius and the Dubois 147 Gitana.

Performance Cruising Classes

In the Performance Cruising classes, the SY 108 Hybrid Gelliceaux and the Baltic Yachts Café Racer Open Season took first place in the Performance Cruising L and Performance Cruising M classes, respectively. Thomas Bascher, owner of the Open Season, said: "This is the best organized and most special event I’ve ever been to. The effort everyone has put in is incredible."

Unique Atmosphere Onshore

The balance between competition on the water and onshore activities created an unmatched atmosphere at Marina Ibiza. With over 400 people, including crews, guests, and organizers, the evenings offered relaxation and a chance to enjoy the famous "Ibiza vibe." Jesper Bank, crew member of the Dubois 100 Nostromo, remarked: "Ibiza JoySail creates the perfect atmosphere where people can mingle. Some of the bigger events should take note of what they’re doing here."

Closing Ceremony and Awards

The event concluded with an awards ceremony in the hospitality area. In addition to the class awards, a Perpetual Trophy was awarded for the record between Punta Cala Figuera, Mallorca, and the island of Tagomago, Ibiza, which went to the Maximus, completing the 48-nautical-mile course in 3 hours and 31 minutes.

Acknowledgments and Next Edition

An event of this caliber wouldn’t be possible without the support of partners and institutions. Companies like North Sails, RigPro, Global Yachting Ibiza, and Yacht Moving provided technical and logistical support, while the Ibiza Island Council and the Ibiza Town Hall remained key pillars. The dates for the fifth edition of Ibiza JoySail are already confirmed: September 18 to 21, 2025.

Final Results of Ibiza JoySail 2024

• Performance Cruising L: 1. Gelliceaux (C), 2. Kiboko Tres (C), 3. Liberty (C)
• Performance Cruising M: 1. Open Season, 2. Dark Horse, 3. Pink Gin
• Performance: 1. Moat, 2. Maximus, 3. Morgana
• World Cruising L: 1. L’Hippocampe, 2. Nostromo (C), 3. Alarife Cien (C)
• World Cruising XL: 1. Bliss (C), 2. Aurelius (C), 3. Gitana