Some of the most popular regattas in the world take place in the Mediterranean. The 49er European Championship Madrid 2016 is held each March in Palma de Mallorca at Club Nautic S'Arenal. The Bay of Palma is very large and can accommodate many of the sailors and their vessels. Mallorca offers mooring for up to 10,000 yachts. Palma de Mallorca, the 12th largest urban area of Spain, is also host to the King's Cup and several other regattas.

The 25th Annual King's Cup

Also known as Copa Del Rey, the King's Cup is one of the most popular and prestigious yachting competitions. In August 2007, about 140 yachtsmen and women hit the waters for the event. The 2008 King's Cup marks the 25th anniversary of the highly anticipated regatta. The competition showcases two races each day for seven days with prizes awarded in each event.

Traditionally, the King of Spain hosts the competition and awards prizes to the winners of each class. For the 2008 King's Cup, King Juan Carlos of Spain and his son Prince Felipe will join the race together. The king and prince team will compete with the most renowned yachtsmen and women in the world for the 25th Annual King's Cup.

4th World University Sailing Championship

Mallorca's temperate climate allows for early and late-season sailing competitions. The 4th World University Sailing Championship will be held in Palma de Mallorca from September 22 through September 27, 2008. Contenders must meet minimum qualifications. Two events make up the race; Individual Championship and Team Racing Championship.

Trofeo SAR Princesa Sofia Regatta

Quite possibly the regatta with the highest competition level, the Trofeo Sar Princess Sofia takes place each year around Easter. More than a thousand sailboats and nearly two-thousand competitors take to the waters in the Bay of Palma. Sailing enthusiasts as well as Olympic hopefuls enjoy the scope of the competition. The 2008 competition allowed some countries to better select which team would represent them in the 2008 Olympics. The Olympic Sailing Competition will be held on August 21, 2008 in Qingdao, Beijing.

Attending a Sailing Competition

Each competition follows its own set of rules set by the club or organization presenting the competition. The sheer number of sailing competitions held throughout the year makes it relatively easy for tourists to witness at least one competition while enjoying their island holiday. Most competitions are followed by open celebrations by the winning parties. More information can be obtained from your travel agent or a number of websites promoting sailing in Mallorca.

Sailing in Mallorca and the Mediterranean Sea

Sailing in the Mediterranean waters surrounding Mallorca isn't restricted to competitions and races. The island is home to 41 marinas and 30 boating clubs. Yachts and sailboats can be chartered or rented at many of the island's marinas. Pedal boats and other watercraft are also available for rent. At any given time during the year, the horizon is dotted with sailboats, yachts and other watercraft.

The position of the Bay of Palma and the popularity of the city help fuel the love of sailing. Tourists often enjoy the cultural events as well as watching the boaters from the pier or the beaches. Boat rides and tours are available at many locally owned business locations in the city. The Spanish Royal Family enjoys holidays each summer in Mallorca. This year, they're adding the thrill of competition to their agenda.