The annual race calendar returns with the eagerly awaited events, led by the Alicante Royal Cup. This race began its fourth edition this year, building a reputation for distinction within the maritime circuit. From its inception, the goal has been to stand out among the familiar regattas and to bring a fresh sense of competition to sailors and fans alike. The Alicante Royal Cup now sits prominently in the calendar as a defining moment for sailing in the region, highlighting the skill, strategy, and camaraderie that make the sport so compelling.
After the summer break, shipowners and crews look forward to testing their limits on the water. They aim to delight their crews with a premier nautical event, measuring their performance against worthy rivals while pursuing victory at sea. This spirited challenge is embodied by the Alicante Royal Cup, a cornerstone event in the Valencia Community Sailing Federation calendar and the first major race in the Alicante Bay after the summer season. It gathers teams who value speed, seamanship, and the joy of competing in a backdrop of sunlit waters and steady sea breezes.
Under the leadership of Miguel López, who serves as President, the organizing efforts are a collaboration between the Real Club de Regatas de Alicante and the Real Liga Naval Española. In Alicante, the participating representatives—Pascual Rosser Limiñana as Representative and Paco Rosser Limiñana as Sub-delegate—play key roles in guiding the preparations for the fourth edition of the Alicante Royal Cup, scheduled to unfold on consecutive days in late September. The event reflects a shared commitment to excellence, with a focus on fair competition, safety at sea, and the celebration of sailing culture in the region.
Participants with vessels holding a 2022 ORC size certificate and ORC Promotion boats are invited to enter this class, subject to the discretion of the Cruise Committee. The committee evaluates each entry on the basis of the vessel’s specifications and performance credentials, ensuring a level playing field while inviting broader participation from crews who want to showcase their boats and talents on a recognized stage. This section of the race calendar offers an excellent opportunity for boats and owners to engage in competitive sailing and to demonstrate their capabilities in a supportive, well-organized environment.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the event also serves as a ceremonial milestone for maritime history. It marks the V Centenary of Juan Sebastián de Elcano’s world voyage, celebrated by the Royal Spanish Naval Association in recognition of the enduring spirit of exploration that drove Spanish ships to cross oceans in search of new cultures. The Alicante Royal Cup, in partnership with Spain’s royal maritime institutions, becomes a living tribute to seafaring heritage, celebrating the courage and curiosity that propelled explorers beyond familiar shores and into the wide open sea.