The RC44 fleet is set for action at the 44Cup Puntaldia on Sardinia’s northeast coast.
Teams have spent recent days training on the water and settling ashore at the 380-berth marina, near a protected marine reserve south of Olbia.
The venue has hosted one-design events before, but this marks the largest yachts to race from Puntaldia.
Italian tactician Vasco Vascotto, racing with Peninsula Racing, brings strong form to the event.
“It’s a marvellous place,” he said. “The conditions here are quite tricky when the breeze is from the southeast, while northeasterlies around Tavolara create a lot of ‘casino’.”
He added that northerly winds are forecast for the opening days, with racing influenced by the island’s shifting effects.
Peninsula Racing arrives as overall leader after its win in Puerto Calero in February.
The team debuts a new RC44 this week, although Vascotto played down any advantage.
“It’s a one-design, so it shouldn’t be too different,” he said. “But with a new boat, everything is bedding in and needs daily adjustment.”
Defending 44Cup champions Team Nika, helmed by Vladimir Prosikhin, are aiming to rebound after a slow start to the season.
“I’ve sailed here five or six times,” said Prosikhin. “It’s very beautiful and one of the cleanest places in the Mediterranean.”
He recalled a near-miss at a previous world championship in Puntaldia.
“We broached 100 metres from the finish and lost the title. That’s my most vivid memory.”
Strong competition is expected across the fleet.
Team Aqua and Gemera Racing, tied on points in Puerto Calero, are among the contenders.
They are joined by Artemis Racing, Aleph Racing and Team Charisma, with Nico Poons returning to the helm.
Black Star Sailing Team also returns, with new crew additions alongside experienced tactician Cameron Dunn.
“We have a new group but have already shown we can compete,” said owner Christian Zuerrer. “The level is even higher this year.”
Racing begins on 23 April, with the first warning signal scheduled for 1200 CET.
