As the Cyclades Cup prepares for its return from 10–13 June 2026 on the island of Antiparos, Greece, excitement is already building with the announcement of a strong list of returning competitors. Several yachts from last year’s fleet have already confirmed their participation, underscoring the event’s growing appeal and reputation.
Confirmed returners from the 2025 edition include Aiolos, Almyra II, Barong D, Fivea, Galma, La Belle, Meliti, Nommo, Nostromo, Tawera and Wally B.
Organisers have also reported strong interest from new entrants, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks. With the fleet capped at 25 yachts and places already filling, teams are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment.
The regatta is organised by the Yacht Club of Greece in collaboration with World Superyacht Awards judge and owner of 50-metre Almyra II, Ilia Rigas. Cyclades Cup is an officially sanctioned event of the SuperYacht Racing Association, with BOAT International as media partner.
©Zoe Cox | Quin Bisset – Studio Illume
The racing
Antiparos continues to deliver classic Aegean conditions and dynamic racecourse options, a defining hallmark of the Cup’s appeal for both competitors and spectators.
Classes include Corinthian Spirit for relaxed cruising trim, the 90-Foot Class for competitive medium-sized superyachts, and the 100-Foot Racing Class for performance-driven yachts. Each day’s course is selected according to conditions, delivering 2 to 3.5 hours of exhilarating yet safe sailing. The 2026 race courses and Notice of Race will be released shortly.
©Zoe Cox | Quin Bisset – Studio Illume
The social programme
Beyond the racecourse, the Cyclades Cup is fast earning a reputation for its carefully curated social and cultural programme, which continues to expand in 2026. This considered approach balances competitive racing with social and cultural experiences, while ensuring the event remains both international in calibre and deeply rooted in its Cycladic setting.
This year’s calendar will include:
- The crew SUP race and beach BBQ, hosted by Pantaenius and introduced in 2025, returns following strong reception from both crew and guests.
- Deepening its connection to place, a private guided tour of the ancient ruins of Despotiko – one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Cyclades – will be led by archaeologist Giannos Kouragios and hosted in collaboration with the Cycladic Identity initiative of the Museum of Cycladic Art.
- A welcome party hosted by Sease will bring together owners, guests and partners for a spectacular start to the week, with wine partner Whispering Angel.
- The Owners’ Dinner, hosted by IYC and Jetcraft, will take place within a private olive grove. Guests will gather around long tables set beneath the trees, for an intimate and atmospheric evening that reflects the character and pace of the island.
- A beach party hosted by Nepheli to celebrate the younger participants
- A closing awards night and BBQ sponsored by Platinum partner UBS. UBS will also be presenting the race day on the final day extending their involvement through to the closing awards ceremony, creating a natural conclusion to the week.
Alongside the core programme, there is a continued emphasis on local engagement. In the lead-up to the event, the local sailing club hosted a session with Olympic sailors, including a tour of a participating yacht, offering younger sailors a direct connection to the fleet. A local community group will also perform at the awards ceremony, further grounding the event within the community.
©Zoe Cox | Quin Bisset – Studio Illume
Giving back
Giving back is central to the Cyclades Cup’s long-term relationship with Antiparos and is shaped by a belief in preserving the island’s cultural and social fabric. The regatta supports the Cycladic Identity initiative of the Museum of Cycladic Art, helping celebrate and safeguard the heritage of the Cycladic islands through meaningful cultural exchange.
During race week, this connection is reflected through on-shore experiences that bring sailors, residents and cultural voices together – from guided walks and shared conversations, to the involvement of local youth and cultural groups. Support for the Antiparos Primary School and engagement with local sailing activity further reinforce the Cup’s aim to contribute more meaningfully.
Equally, respect for the island’s marine environment guides every aspect of the regatta, reflecting a commitment to stewardship of the waters and coastlines that sustain both sailing and local life. In this way, giving back is not an add-on – it is fundamental to how the Cyclades Cup exists, ensuring the event remains a living part of Antiparos rather than simply passing through it. Find out more here.
©Zoe Cox | Quin Bisset – Studio Illume
The partners
The Cyclades Cup has also confirmed its partners for the 2026 edition, continuing its focus on long-term alignment within its owner-led community.
Returning for a third consecutive year, UBS continues as Platinum Partner, with IYC and Numarine at Gold level, and Jetcraft, Octium Group, Sease and Vitters Shipyard as Silver Partners. Feadship and Pantelakis & Partners join at Bronze level alongside returning partners Pantaenius, Perga and Southern Spars.
Those interested in taking part in the Cyclades Cup are invited to click below for further details.
