Palma de Mallorca- Fantastic sailing conditions are accompanying the sixth edition of the Hublot Palma Vela, a spectacular regatta thanks to the presence of some of the most majestic maxi vessels in the world and the newest TP 52's. The HUBLOT PalmaVela is the first race of the season and gathers, among others, 19 maxis, one of the biggest fleet to be seen in competition. Hublot Palma Vela has proven to be a success with a total registration of almost 200 boats in the current edition, which started last Wednesday the 15th and will finish on Sunday the 19th.

The magnificent 143 footer Esense is the largest vessel of the whole fleet, and was also the largest Wally sailing vessel in the world until last October, when Saudade was built. The spectacular boat is steered by Wally's founder Luca Bassani and his usual crew, with some America's Cup sailors among it. Another important novelty in the maxi class is the brand new RAN II, designed by Vrolijk, which was launched just a few weeks ago, and makes its debut here in Palma. This is also Italian Luna Rossa, with Prada's skipper Patrizio Bertelli, and with Flavio Flavinia at the wheel. It was launched some months ago in Valencia, where it has been match racing with the also new German Container, both examples of the latest and best boat design technology.

Not only the best boats, but also the best crews attend the first regatta of the season. Three times Olympic gold medalist Jochen Schumann is tactician on maxi Open Season, ex match race World Champion Karol Jablonski does so on the German maxi Container, and America's Cup crew member Jasper Radich is at the wheel on Y3K. Regarding the TP 52's, one of the most important novelties is the debut of state of the art boat Matador, an eagerly awaited design of Javier Soto Acebal. It was launched last march, and is one of the favorites to win the World Cup this season.