The Rolex Swan Cup kicks off its 23rd edition on 13 September, bringing the international Swan community to Porto Cervo. The event, organised in collaboration with the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, celebrates Nautor Swan’s 60th anniversary. Since its debut in 1980, the regatta has developed into one of the most prestigious events on the international sailing calendar. The partnership between Rolex, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Nautor Swan continues to set new standards both on and off the water. With 160 yachts already confirmed and new entries arriving daily, the event is becoming one of the world’s largest single-brand sailing events. The fleet represents all three pillars of ClubSwan: Legacy, Spirit and Racing. “Tarantella”, Swan 36-001, the very first Swan ever built, leads the fleet. Sailing alongside it are the latest generations, such as the Swan 80 and the Swan 128 Dual Energy.
Three divisions united under one spirit
The Notice of Race reflects the evolution of ClubSwan into three complementary divisions. ClubSwan Legacy brings together the yachts that laid the foundations of Swan’s history. For the first time, designs by Sparkman & Stephens, Ron Holland and German Frers will compete side by side. The division celebrates the timeless elegance and craftsmanship that have defined the brand for six decades. ClubSwan Spirit welcomes owners of modern Swans, divided into Swan and Maxi classes. These sailors share a passion for cruising, adventure and the shared experience. Within this division, a dedicated category allows yachts to compete without racing optimisation. They retain their authentic cruising configuration and on-board lifestyle whilst embracing the spirit of friendly competition. ClubSwan Racing remains the home of one-design competition, featuring the ClubSwan 50, ClubSwan 43, ClubSwan 42, ClubSwan 36 and ClubSwan 28 classes.
Record turnout with historic significance
The remarkable balance across the fleet is evident in the figures: 44 Swan yachts, 40 Maxis, 33 Legacy yachts and 43 one-design boats. This distribution perfectly reflects the essence of Nautor. From historic classics to the latest performance yachts, each division contributes to a community where different ways of experiencing the sea come together. Gianguido Girotti, CEO of Nautor Swan, emphasises: “A Swan is never just a yacht. It becomes part of the owners’ lives, their adventures and stories. It becomes a family heirloom, passed down from one generation to the next.” The managing director emphasises that Nautor represents far more than just competitions. The regattas are opportunities to forge lasting friendships, share knowledge and celebrate the pure joy of sailing.
Six decades of Swan excellence on the starting line
“Tarantella”, the first Swan ever built, has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. She returns to the regatta course off Porto Cervo as a living symbol of the brand’s heritage. The yacht embodies six decades of innovation and reminds the sailing world where the Swan story began. The anniversary fleet offers a unique journey through the evolution of Swan design. Alongside “Tarantella”, the two Swan 128s, “BeCool” and Raijin, masterpieces of engineering, technology and contemporary elegance. The brand-new Swan 80 makes its debut within the Swan family following its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival. The same spirit of continuity is evident in the Swan 51 family, where the latest generation joins “Formosa”, the original model from the 1980s and Nautor’s 1000th vessel.
Range of sizes demonstrates the shipyard’s capacity
The celebration of Swan’s evolution continues with the larger yachts. “Further Beyond”, a Swan 98, goes head-to-head with the Swan 131, the longest Swan ever built. Together, these exceptional yachts embody the breadth of the Swan range. They demonstrate how six decades of craftsmanship have evolved, whilst remaining unmistakably true to the brand’s timeless identity.
Four days of racing and social events
The sporting programme promises an unforgettable week. Practice racing on Tuesday sets the scene, before four days of competition from Wednesday to Saturday. This year’s event welcomes a significant number of first-time participants. They will join Swan Cup-experienced owners to experience the distinctive atmosphere and strong sense of community that define the Nautor family. The Rolex Swan Cup has always been more than just a regatta. It is a celebration of people – the owners, sailors, families and crews who return year after year to share their passion for the sea. Rolex and Swan ambassador Paul Cayard, alongside many of the world’s leading professional sailors, will share his experience and passion, inspiring participants throughout the week.
Tradition meets community
The onshore programme of events remains a key part of the Rolex Swan Cup. The week begins with the Opening Ceremony and culminates in the prestigious Owners’ Dinner on Thursday evening, a special celebration of Nautor Swan’s 60th anniversary. The Rolex Crew Party follows on Friday, whilst the Final Prize-Giving on Saturday brings another memorable edition to a close. Throughout the week, participants and guests gather every afternoon in Piazza Azzurra for the traditional after-race celebrations. These moments perfectly capture the true spirit of the regatta, where competition gives way to camaraderie and lifelong friendships are forged. Andrea Recordati, Commodore of the YCCS, explains: “The 23rd edition of the Rolex Swan Cup promises to be particularly significant, as the shipyard celebrates its 60th anniversary. We are delighted that the long-standing partnership between Rolex, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Nautor Swan continues.”
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT