Millevele Regatta: A Spectacle of Yachting Excellence in Genoa
Since 1987, the Millevele Regatta has painted the sea of Genoa with vibrant sails, becoming a signature event in the world of yachting. Once again, the city hosted this iconic celebration, which has evolved into one of the most anticipated regattas in the Mediterranean. At West Coast International, we are proud to witness the transformation of this event, originally organized by the Italian Yacht Club, into a stunning gathering of more than 170 boats across various classes.
A Unique Yachting Tradition
The Millevele Regatta is a true celebration of yachting, where boats of all sizes and categories compete in the picturesque Gulf of Genoa. In 2022, the regatta featured a variety of courses, offering something for everyone. Boats raced in real time across three distinct routes, starting at 11 AM from the Lido d’Albaro, with the finish line stretching from Boccadasse to the Foce. The event highlighted Genoa as a key player in the global yachting community, particularly during the same week as the renowned Salone Nautico Internazionale di Genova, making the city one of the world’s premier yachting capitals.
The Course and Routes: A Thrill for Competitors and Spectators
From a technical standpoint, the regatta follows a carefully designed course with different routes based on boat size. The event kicks off at 11 AM in front of the Lido d’Albaro, with participants navigating the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Genoa. The course includes three routes, each with its own set of parameters:
-
Red Route: 17 to 13 miles
-
Green Route: 15 to 11 miles
-
Yellow Route: 11 to 9 miles
In 2022, 228 boats participated in the regatta, setting sail together in a stunning display of yachting prowess. This grand parade of yachts is a sight to behold, captivating both participants and spectators alike. The regatta’s unwavering charm has made it a symbol of the Italian yachting spirit, drawing in enthusiasts, world-class sailors, and teams from across the globe.
An Unforgettable Show of Resilience
The Millevele Regatta is not easily deterred by challenging weather. Rain, strong winds, and towering waves cannot diminish the excitement of the event. In 2022, as the regatta began, the weather conditions were favorable with winds around 10-12 knots. However, a sudden storm hit Genoa, increasing the wind speed to 20-22 knots and creating high waves. Despite the challenging conditions, the participants showed incredible skill and determination, keeping the spirit of the event alive.
One of the standout moments of the 2022 regatta was the unfortunate sinking of the Lazy, an 8.5-meter boat from the Santa Margherita sailing club. The vessel encountered a mechanical failure after hitting a wave, causing a leak and ultimately sinking. Fortunately, the five crew members were quickly rescued without injury. While some boats were forced to withdraw due to equipment failures, the regatta continued with a sense of camaraderie and excitement.
A Thrilling Outcome
For the remaining teams, the regatta was an exhilarating experience. Free at Last, a new boat under its new ownership, secured an impressive second-place finish in its first regatta—a remarkable achievement. This year’s Millevele Regatta once again proved why it remains one of the most exciting and eagerly anticipated events in the yachting calendar.
Conclusion
The Millevele Regatta is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of yachting, community, and the spirit of adventure. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a passionate spectator, this event offers an unforgettable experience, uniting the world of yachting in the stunning setting of Genoa’s Gulf. We look forward to many more years of this iconic regatta, where the thrill of competition meets the beauty of the sea.
