St. Barths Bucket 2024

Competitive Results Across the Fleet

The 2024 St. Barths Bucket Regatta, held from March 21-24, delivered intense racing among the world’s most impressive superyachts. In the high-stakes Superyacht Class, Gelliceaux claimed a long-awaited victory in the ORCsy division after over 20 years of participation. In the 90-foot class, introduced this year, Velsheda secured top honors in a tightly contested race. Another highlight was the new 100-foot Racing Class, which catered to high-performance sloops, adding a dynamic twist to this year’s competition

Tactical Challenges and Dramatic Moments

The Bucket’s iconic “Around the Island” course and variable wind conditions provided plenty of excitement for participants and spectators. On Day Two, a particularly notable incident occurred when Ranger, competing in the J-Class, suffered a tactical mishap during a downwind start, allowing Topaz to surge ahead and take the lead. This thrilling moment highlighted the tactical depth required to succeed in this prestigious event, as minor errors had significant consequences. Overall, the fluctuating wind patterns made for challenging races, testing both crew coordination and yacht handling.

Star-Studded Shoreside Festivities

As one of the most glamorous regattas in the yachting calendar, the 2024 St. Barths Bucket Regatta attracted several high-profile celebrity attendees. Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio was spotted aboard a spectator yacht, mingling with yacht owners and industry elites at the regatta’s exclusive parties. Formula 1 legend and longtime stalwart of the upper echelons of the Superyacht elite Eddie Jordan also made an appearance, participating as a guest aboard Lionheart, further boosting the event’s star power. The high-profile attendance added an extra level of prestige and excitement to the already vibrant social scene surrounding the regatta.

Stunning Displays of Tradition and Modernity

This year’s event saw a remarkable blend of traditional and modern sailing yachts, with classic J-Class vessels like Ranger and Velsheda competing alongside sleek, high-performance modern yachts in the new 100-foot Racing Class. The introduction of this new category catered to owners of cutting-edge racing yachts, highlighting the evolution of the regatta to include more performance-oriented vessels while maintaining its core focus on camaraderie and sportsmanship. The mix of vessels created a stunning visual spectacle for spectators, both on the water and ashore.

Conclusion: A Memorable Edition

The 2024 St. Barths Bucket Regatta will be remembered for its exciting new developments, such as the introduction of the 100-foot Racing Class, as well as the fierce competition across all divisions. With thrilling races, tactical challenges, and star-studded shoreside events, the Bucket continues to stand out as a unique celebration of sailing excellence and luxury. As competitors and spectators alike look forward to future editions, this year’s event has once again proven why the St. Barths Bucket remains a pinnacle of the superyacht racing season.

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