The Regate Pirelli sailing races light up the waters of Santa Margherita Ligure every spring, turning the Gulf of Tigullio into a vibrant stage for maritime skill and colorful sails. Each year, over 100 boats gather for this prestigious event, making it one of the highlights of the Italian Riviera. The Yacht Club Italiano and the Circolo Velico of Santa Margherita Ligure team up to organize the Regate Pirelli – Coppa Carlo Negri, which has become a cornerstone of the region’s sailing scene.
If you visit during the regatta, you’ll notice the harbor comes alive as crews bustle around, prepping their boats. There’s even a nighttime “long race” that kicks things off—picture dozens of sailboats gliding under the moonlight, casting reflections on the water. It’s a fantastic excuse to wander the town and soak up the buzz while catching some top-tier sailing action.
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While the races grab the spotlight, Santa Margherita’s other gems are worth a look too. Check out the Basilica, the Castle, or Villa Durazzo. The whole town seems to pulse with energy during regatta time, making spring the perfect season to dive into local culture and the area’s deep maritime roots.
Overview of Regate Pirelli in Santa Margherita Ligure
Regate Pirelli ranks among the top sailing events on the Italian Riviera. Sailors and fans from all over flock to Santa Margherita Ligure’s gorgeous coastline for some of the best competition around.
What Is Regate Pirelli?
Regate Pirelli—officially Regate Pirelli-Coppa Carlo Negri—brings together more than 100 boats of all shapes and sizes for a series of races in the Gulf of Tigullio. The Yacht Club Italiano and Circolo Velico di Santa Margherita Ligure organize it, with support from the local municipalities and Portofino.
You get to race (or watch) in stunning waters between Santa Margherita and Portofino. The scenery is hard to beat, but the weather? Well, it can be all over the place—sometimes calm, sometimes wild and rainy. Sailors have to stay sharp out there.
No matter what the weather throws at them, people keep coming back for more. That says a lot about the event’s pull in the sailing world.
Significance in the Sailing Community
Regate Pirelli isn’t just another regatta. It’s one of those rare gatherings that die-hard sailors and boat owners mark on their calendars every year. Top competitors show up for the challenge and the honor—there’s real pride in taking part.
Locals love it too. The regatta feels like a celebration of their maritime heritage, and the town transforms during race week. You’ll see crews hustling on the docks and crowds gathering along the water’s edge.
The event draws visitors from all over, which gives the local economy a nice boost. Many stick around after the races to discover Liguria’s food, history, and scenery.
History and Tradition
The Regate Pirelli has a pretty rich backstory, deeply tied to Italian sailing. It partly gets its name from Carlo Negri, a big figure in Italian maritime circles, and honors tradition while keeping up with the times. Beppe Croce, a visionary in Italian sailing, helped launch the competition.
Over the years, the regatta has changed and grown, but some things stay the same. Early mornings, you’ll spot rowing clubs gliding across the calm harbor—a nod to Santa Margherita’s long love affair with the sea.
The race has faced its share of changes, from shifting technologies to unpredictable weather. Boats like Botta Dritta 2, skippered by Marco Matica, have made their mark by winning in tough conditions. These stories add to the regatta’s legend.
Each spring, the event cements Santa Margherita Ligure’s reputation as a Mediterranean sailing hotspot.
Santa Margherita Ligure: The Heart of the Event
Santa Margherita Ligure is the perfect setting for the Regate Pirelli. The bay is gorgeous, the maritime history runs deep, and the sailing community is as passionate as they come. The town blends old-school charm with the excitement of modern racing.
Maritime Heritage
Sailing’s been in Santa Margherita Ligure’s DNA since the days of the Republic of Genoa. The town grew from a sleepy fishing village into a world-class sailing destination, but it never lost its seafaring soul.
The harbor, lined with colorful buildings and watched over by a castle from 1550, sets the scene for regattas and sea festivals. Local fishermen still work these waters, using some of the same techniques their ancestors did.
If you’re curious about the old ways, the Maritime Museum by the harbor is worth a visit. You’ll find exhibits on fishing techniques and traditional boat-building.
Local Sailing Clubs and Organisations
The Circolo Velico di Santa Margherita Ligure leads the charge for local sailing, especially during Regate Pirelli. Since the 1950s, the club has helped generations of sailors get their sea legs.
What do they offer?
- Training for all ages
- Boat rentals
- Advice from seasoned sailors
- Regular competitions
The Yacht Club Italiano brings its own tradition and expertise, working closely with the local club to make the regatta run smoothly.
Together, they coordinate with town officials and know the local waters inside out, which really helps visiting teams get their bearings.
Sailing Along the Ligurian Coast
The racecourse hugs the Ligurian coastline, showing off some of the best scenery in Italy. Sailors face the same tricky winds and currents that have challenged mariners here for centuries.
Most races run between Santa Margherita and Portofino, with its postcard-perfect harbor. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Cinque Terre in the distance.
Afternoon breezes usually pick up, making for ideal racing. The Gulf of Tigullio is pretty sheltered, so even when the open sea gets rough, the racing stays manageable.
Knowing the local conditions can give teams an edge—no wonder visiting crews often team up with locals.
Race Formats and Classes
Regate Pirelli mixes things up with different race formats and a variety of boat classes. Usually, around 100 boats compete in this prestigious event, keeping the action lively.
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Main Race Categories
Several boat classes line up for the regatta. The mainstays are the IRC and ORC/ORC Club categories, open to boats over 9.14 meters.
Special divisions include:
- Maxi IRC – The big, fast yachts
- Swan Maxi Class – Sleek, high-performance Swans
- Mini Maxi – Slightly smaller but just as competitive
- Wally Class – Modern, eye-catching racers
Organizers set up different race formats. The “regata costiera” (coastal race) is for the larger boats, while other classes get their own courses. All races follow Category “C” rules under international sailing guidelines.
Notable Boats and Crews
Some boats really make a splash at Regate Pirelli. The Swan 60 “Vertical Smile” and Vismara 60 “B2” are always tough to beat.
Other standouts:
- “Thetis” and “QQ7” in the larger categories
- “Baciottinho” and “GLS Stella” with skilled teams
- “Itacentodue,” a real showcase of Italian sailing
- Red Bull Sailing Team, which brings an international edge
Crews come from all over Europe, and many return year after year. That builds some great rivalries and plenty of camaraderie.
The X-35 and Swan 45 one-design classes are especially fun to watch, since all the boats are identical—so it’s all down to the crew’s skill.
The Coppa Carlo Negri and Related Trophies
The Coppa Carlo Negri is one of Italy’s most respected sailing prizes, honoring a war hero and tying into the Pirelli family’s story.
History of the Carlo Negri Cup
Beppe Croce established the Coppa Carlo Negri in 1945 as a “trofeo challenge perpetuo” (perpetual challenge trophy). He wanted to honor Carlo Negri, a decorated pilot and Margherita Pirelli’s son, who received Italy’s gold medal for military valor.
The trophy eventually merged with the Regate Pirelli in Santa Margherita Ligure, and now the combined “Regate Pirelli-Coppa Carlo Negri” is a highlight of the Italian sailing calendar.
You’ll spot the trophy on display during the event, a symbol of its storied past and importance in Italian sailing.
Famous Winners and Records
Over the years, the Regate Pirelli-Coppa Carlo Negri has drawn some of the best sailing talent around. Usually, about 100 crews compete each year—99 teams showed up for the 41st edition.
The regatta welcomes boats longer than 9.14 meters, including some impressive Maxi class racers. Since 2009, it’s been part of the International Maxi Association (I.M.A) calendar, which puts it on the global map.
Winning teams earn not just the Carlo Negri Cup, but also serious bragging rights in Italy’s sailing world. The courses around Santa Margherita and Portofino test both speed and tactics.
If you’re in town during the regatta, you’ll catch some spectacular racing as teams battle for this historic trophy.
International Highlights and Celebrity Participation
Regate Pirelli stands out for its international flavor, drawing top sailors from around the globe. Many competitors bring experience from the world’s biggest sailing events.
America’s Cup Connections
It’s not unusual to see sailors with America’s Cup credentials at Regate Pirelli. Francesco De Angelis, who led Luna Rossa in several Cup campaigns, has raced here and brought his tactical genius to these waters.
Sometimes, members of Alinghi—the Swiss team that won the America’s Cup twice—show up too. Their presence raises the bar and draws fans hoping to see world-class sailors up close.
The link between Coppa America (that’s what Italians call the America’s Cup) and Regate Pirelli gives the event a special vibe, where up-and-comers can test themselves against legends.
Iconic Teams and Skippers
French sailing stars like Tanguy Cariou and Alain Gaultier have left their mark on the regatta, bringing international flair and technical know-how to the Ligurian coast. Their participation really shows how the event draws talent from all over.
Local favorite Adriano Calvini often lines up against international rivals, creating matchups that keep spectators coming back. The regatta becomes a melting pot for different sailing cultures.
Margherita Pirelli, representing the sponsor family, usually hands out the awards—blending tradition, family, and sport in a way that feels uniquely Italian.
You’ll see a mix of pro teams with big sponsors and enthusiastic amateurs, which keeps the competition both serious and welcoming.
Event Experience and Activities
Regate Pirelli isn’t just about the races. Visitors get swept up in social events, waterfront festivities, and plenty of great spots to watch the action on the sparkling Ligurian sea.
Social Events and Onshore Entertainment
The big Pirelli tent (tendone Pirelli) acts as the social heart of the regatta. Here, you’ll stumble into evening cocktail parties where sailors, sponsors, and visitors swap stories after a long day on the water. These gatherings usually offer local seafood and Ligurian specialties—honestly, it’s hard not to overindulge.
Santa Margherita Ligure puts on several extra celebrations during the event. The Festa di Primavera (Spring Festival) often lines up with the regatta, filling piazzas with traditional food stalls serving fritella Ligure (Ligurian fritters) and live music echoing into the night.
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You really shouldn’t skip the Palio Marinaro del Tigullio, a historic rowing competition that puts local maritime traditions front and center. Teams from coastal towns race in brightly painted boats, and the energy along the waterfront is contagious.
At the Pirelli PZero inflatable boat displays, you can get right up close to some of the latest marine tech. Company reps hang around to chat and answer questions about these speedy vessels—not a bad way to geek out if you’re into boats.
Spectator Tips and Best Viewing Spots
The harbor promenade gives you a front-row seat to boats gearing up for the races. If you want a good spot, show up before 9 AM and watch crews prepping their vessels.
Where should you watch the race?
- Castello di Santa Margherita: Up here, you get sweeping views of boats rounding the offshore buoys (boa al largo)
- Punta Pedale: This headland between Santa Margherita and Portofino gives you a clear look at the racing course
- Waterfront cafés: Some places even rent out binoculars if you order food or drinks—kind of a nice touch
If you want to get closer, book a ride on one of the pneumatic boats (battelli pneumatici) that follow the races. These guided trips bring you right up to the action, with someone explaining the racing strategies as you go.
The Portofino lighthouse area offers a totally different perspective, especially when boats swing around the peninsula. You’ll need to arrive by boat or hike for about an hour—worth it if you want a quieter spot.
Exploring Santa Margherita Ligure and Surroundings
Santa Margherita Ligure mixes coastal beauty with that classic Italian charm. Tucked along the Gulf of Tigullio, it makes a great base for exploring both the town and the nearby sights.
Top Attractions and Landmarks
Kick things off with a stroll along the seafront promenade, which really is the pulse of town life. Grab a coffee at one of the cafés and watch the boats drift in and out of the harbor.
The Basilica di Santa Margherita stands out as the town’s religious centerpiece, with its striking façade and ornate interior. Spend 15-20 minutes inside—it’s worth a look.
Villa Durazzo is another spot that deserves your attention. The villa’s gardens and art collection are impressive, and the views of the bay from the terraces? Honestly, they’re hard to beat.
You’ll want to see Cervara Abbey, a historic monastery from the 14th century. Visits are limited, but the architecture and setting really make it special.
For a classic day trip, hop on a boat to Portofino (only 5km away). The colorful houses and fancy shops are as photogenic as you’d expect.
If you’re up for a longer trip, the Cinque Terre villages are easy to reach by train. These five coastal towns, all linked by hiking paths, offer some jaw-dropping views.
Where to Stay and Eat
Santa Margherita Ligure has a place for every budget. The Hotel Continental and Grand Hotel Miramare give you luxury with sea views and top-notch service.
For something more mid-range, Hotel Regina Elena and Hotel Metropole are both solid choices—comfortable without costing a fortune.
If you’re watching your wallet, check out family-run spots like Hotel Minerva or Albergo Annabella, both just a short walk from the beach.
Eating here is all about fresh seafood. Ristorante Angolo 48 serves up excellent local dishes, with daily catches straight from the harbor.
If you’re craving real Ligurian pesto, swing by La Paranza—they make it fresh every day. The trofie pasta with pesto? You’ve got to try it.
And before you leave, grab some focaccia at Panificio Pinamonti. Locals love this spot, and the bread is perfect plain or with toppings for a quick lunch.
Practical Information for Visitors and Participants
If you’re planning to visit the Regate Pirelli in Santa Margherita Ligure, you’ll want to sort out a few key details. Here’s the lowdown on getting there, what to expect from the weather, and a few things to keep in mind for a smooth experience.
Getting There and Transportation
Santa Margherita Ligure is pretty easy to reach. If you’re flying in from abroad, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is the closest big airport, about 35 km away. Hop in a taxi or grab a train from there to get to Santa Margherita.
Trains run frequently from major Italian cities to the Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino station. The railway links up with Milan, Genoa, and other towns along the Ligurian Riviera.
Prefer to drive? Take the A12 highway and exit at Rapallo, then follow the signs. Just keep in mind—parking gets tight during the regatta, so showing up early is your best bet.
Once you’re in town, you can walk to most regatta venues. Local buses and water taxis make it easy to get between places like Portofino and Rapallo.
Weather Conditions and Sailing Tips
The Regate Pirelli usually brings good sailing weather, but you should be ready for anything. Temperatures during regatta season usually sit between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
Mornings tend to be calmer, but the wind often picks up in the afternoon. Sometimes the “vento di scirocco” (sirocco wind) sweeps in from the southeast, making things more challenging on the water.
Recommended sailing gear:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- UV-protective clothing
- Non-slip footwear
- Polarized sunglasses
Local sailors recommend getting familiar with the bay’s currents before competing. The stretch between Santa Margherita and Portofino can throw some curveballs with the wind, thanks to those surrounding mountains.
Water visibility is usually great, but keep an eye out for boat traffic—this place is popular with yachters.
Registration and Entry Requirements
You’ll need to finish registration before the official deadline—usually about a month before the event kicks off. If you’re an “Armatori” (that’s boat owner, for the uninitiated), you’ll have to show your vessel documentation and safety certifications as part of the process.
Required documents for registration:
- A valid sailing license
- Boat insurance certificate
- Crew list with emergency contacts
- Completed liability waiver
- Proof you’ve paid the entry fee
You can register online through the official Regate Pirelli website, or just swing by the event headquarters at Santa Margherita Ligure’s main harbor to do it in person. Honestly, it’s smart to register early—spots fill up fast.
If you’re coming from abroad, double-check that your passport won’t expire for at least six months after you plan to leave. Non-EU sailors, don’t forget to see if you’ll need a visa for Italy.
The regatta sticks to World Sailing regulations, so make sure your boat actually fits the specs for your class.
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