Cyclades Cup 2026: Opening Day Racing Abandoned as Wind Fails the Fleet

Race officials have abandoned the first day of competition at the Cyclades Cup after deteriorating conditions left a substantial portion of the fleet becalmed mid-course.

The decision came after what had been a promising start: the leading boats enjoyed solid pressure and the regatta's signature diamond starts, 20 superyachts launching downwind under full spinnakers in the waters off Antiparos, before a significant wind hole developed through the back half of the fleet and made completing the course impractical.

Shirley Robertson OBE, manager of the SuperYacht Racing Association (SYRA), explained the call: "This is a tricky location to predict... we were confident because the wind models looked solid, and the first half of the fleet had a really enjoyable breeze. But as the race progressed the wind dropped away and left a big hole in the middle." Robertson noted that while the faster boats may have crossed the finish line, abandonment was the equitable outcome: "It felt fairer to stop the race and resume tomorrow or Saturday when conditions are more consistent."

The full fleet has returned to Antiparos. Owners, guests, and crew will regroup ashore this evening ahead of tomorrow's first scheduled start, with the social programme proceeding as planned.

Now in its third edition, the Cyclades Cup has established itself as Greece's only dedicated superyacht regatta; and Robertson's closing note was characteristically direct: "With 20 huge yachts out there, it was a special sight despite the weather."

Racing is expected to resume Thursday, conditions permitting.