The 2nd edition of the Cyclades Cup, held 12–15 June 2025 in the heart of the Aegean, has drawn to a close – affirming its place as one of the most distinctive and atmosphere-rich superyacht regattas on the international calendar.
Three days of racing were scheduled, with strong winds forcing the cancellation of the final day – a reminder that in the Aegean, nature always has the last word.
Still, the fleet delivered two unforgettable days of fierce competition and island celebration, framed by Antiparos’ raw beauty and unmistakable charm.
An invitational superyacht regatta founded by yacht owners and held in collaboration with the Yacht Club of Greece, the Cyclades Cup blends world-class sailing with the intimacy and authenticity of a Greek island experience. Capped at 20 yachts to preserve its community spirit, this year’s fleet included returning favourites like TAWERA, BARONG D, FIVEA, LA BELLE and ALMYRA II, alongside striking newcomers like GALMA, AIOLOS, NOMMO, NOSTROMO and MELITI.
“The Cyclades Cup is growing, while staying true to its roots. For me, first and foremost it’s a celebration of friendship, sportsmanship, and fair play. The memories we make and the connections we deepen are far more valuable than any victory.” — Ilia Rigas, Founder & Regatta Director, Cyclades Cup.
ON THE WATER
Shortened by weather, the two days of racing delivered thrilling competition on coastal courses between Antiparos, Despotiko, and Ios. The course selection made the most of strong Meltemi winds and the islands’ dramatic seascape. Classes included a Corinthian Spirit division for yachts racing in cruising trim, and a 90-Foot Racing Class, ensuring a diverse and dynamic fleet.
Among the crews were top sailors including Olympic Gold Medalist, five-time World Champion, and two-time Rolex World Sailor of the Year Aimilia Tsoulfa; Olympic Bronze Medalists Takis Mantis, Pavlos Kagialis, and Sofia Papadopoulou; and America’s Cup and Volvo Ocean Race veteran Kimo Worthington, racing aboard Almyra II.
The fleet represented over 10 nationalities and a combined length of nearly 600 metres – a striking presence in the heart of the Cyclades.
“This regatta isn’t about excess – it’s about excellence, integrity, and joy. That’s what we race for.” — Stratis Adreadis, Race Chairman, Yacht Club of Greece.
NOT JUST A REGATTA – A GATHERING
Beyond the racecourse, the Cyclades Cup is fast earning a reputation for its exceptional social and cultural programme. This year’s calendar included:
A welcome party, sponsored by UBS, the event’s Platinum partner, brought together owners, guests, and partners for a spectacular start to the week. ● Whispering Angel rosé was flowing at the welcome party.
A crew SUP race and beach BBQ hosted by Pantaenius.
A guided tour of the Antiparos Castle with the Cycladic Identity Initiative – a long-term commitment from the Cycladic Museum of Art.
An Owners’ Club and VIP dinner hosted by BOAT International.
A closing awards night and party celebrating spirit, not just standings featuring wine from La Scolca and Whispering Angel.
“For the second consecutive year, UBS is proud to support the Cyclades Cup, an event that celebrates excellence not just on the water, but also reflects the strength of community and cultural heritage. It’s a unique combination — and one we’re honored to be part of.” — Nasos Thanopoulos, Head Wealth Management Greece & Cyprus, UBS Global Wealth Management
Mooring once again in the centre of Antiparos town, the fleet became part of the island’s daily rhythm – its whitewashed lanes, local tavernas, and family-run businesses offering a sense of welcome that no port city can replicate.
CELEBRATING THE WINNERS
The 2025 edition delivered standout performances across all classes, blending skill, sportsmanship, and Corinthian spirit.
This year’s Head of the Fleet trophy was awarded to NOSTROMO, owned by Sir Andrew Cook, who secured both class honours and the best corrected overall time across the regatta.
“With good winds, perfect weather, expert support from the Yacht Club of Greece and above all, superb organisation on sea and land by Ilia Rigas and the Cyclades Cup team, the 2025 Regatta was memorable. Only two years since inception, this must now be the ‘benchmark’ Superyacht event, against which, all others should be judged. Roll on 2026!” Sir Andrew & Lady Mirela Dracini-Cook, NOSTROMO
Class results and special award winners — including Best Starter, Youngest Team, and Spirit of the Cyclades — can be found on the official website: https://www.cyclades-cup.com/about-the-race/results
This year saw the inaugural Legend at Sea Award — a lifetime achievement honour celebrating individuals whose contributions have shaped Corinthian sailing. The first recipient was George Prokopiou, President (Commodore) of the Yacht Club of Greece and owner of both AIOLOS and the 8mR Flamingo. A lifelong sailor who began in Lightnings and a visionary shipowner behind Dynacom Tankers, Sea Traders, and Dynagas, Prokopiou has spent decades championing excellence on and off the water. A moving tribute film at the closing ceremony honoured his enduring impact.
“George’s stewardship—whether as a shipowner, Club president, or regatta supporter—embodies everything the Cyclades Cup stands for: integrity, passion, and community,” said Stratis Adreadis .
Each prize awarded at the Cyclades Cup is a replica of a Cycladic figurine, crafted from brilliant Parian white marble and inspired by the iconic figures housed at the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens. Symbolising grace, purity, and enduring legacy, the sculpture serves as both a tribute to the region’s deep cultural heritage and a reminder of the values at the heart of the regatta — simplicity, strength, and timeless beauty.
UNIQUE BY DESIGN
The Cyclades Cup isn’t just about racing — it’s about a shared love of sailing, lasting friendships, and the kind of atmosphere only a Greek island can offer. Owner-led and community-minded, it’s quietly rewriting the regatta rulebook.
Antiparos, with its blend of simplicity and sophistication, is not just a venue –kimo it’s a character in the story. The regatta’s format favours connection over competition, elegance over excess, and soul over spectacle.
Regatta Highlights at a Glance:
- 3 scheduled race days / 2 days raced (1 cancelled due to wind)
- 20 yachts registered, 17 on the start line representing 10+ countries ● All but two yachts from 2024 returned — nearly 90% repeat participation ● Olympic and America’s Cup sailors on the water
- Custom courses, cultural programming, and local integration
“It’s the only regatta we’ve attended where camaraderie matters as much as course strategy. We love it.”— Mike Mahoney, Owner of SY Tawera
PARTNERS & SPONSORS
The Cyclades Cup is made possible by the generous support of:
Platinum sponsor: UBS – whose support has been instrumental in shaping the success of this year’s event
Gold sponsors: IYC – International Yacht Company, Perini Navi – Brand of The Italian Sea Group
Silver sponsors: Oceanco, NetJets, Navarino
Bronze sponsors: Pantaenius Yacht Insurance, Southern Spars, Perga
Official media partner: BOAT International
Greek media partner: SKIPPER ONDECK
The event is held under the auspices of the Municipality of Antiparos, with race oversight by the Yacht Club of Greece. Race integrity is assured by the Superyacht Racing Association (SYRA), and scoring is managed by the Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) using its specialised Superyacht Rule and rating system (ORCsy) — developed incollaboration with SYRA — to ensure fair and exciting racing for yachts of varying size, type, and design.
With grateful acknowledgement of the support of partners and contributors, including Whispering Angel, La Scolca, Agrilia, Tesoro, Rafnar, Riginos Yachts, RigPro, Blue Star Ferries, Dalorent, Salty Bag, Metsystem, Cycladic Identity, and SVR who helped bring the spirit of the island to every element of the event.
LOOKING AHEAD
The next edition of the Cyclades Cup will return to Antiparos from 10–13 June 2026.
ABOUT THE CYCLADES CUP REGATTA
The Cyclades Cup is a premier invitational superyacht regatta set in the heart of the Aegean. Organised in collaboration with the Yacht Club of Greece, the event brings together a curated fleet of yachts over 30 metres to race in Corinthian spirit while celebrating Greek hospitality, natural beauty, and a sense of community rarely found on the racing circuit.
