Showdown of a Lifetime: World's Most Southern Superyacht Regatta Is All Set To Begin

This Saturday heralds the start of an extraordinary seafaring spectacle, the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta, the 2025 New Zealand Millennium Cup. Situated amid Auckland’s volcanically crafted islands and channels, and the Hauraki Gulf, this year’s race is teeming with potential. With a tantalizing blend of returning champions and fresh contenders itching to make their regatta debut, the stage is set for an exceptional confrontation.

The 2025 NZ Millennium Cup, the second consecutive edition to take place in Auckland after its Bay of Islands tenure, eagerly rolls out the red carpet for the formidable Kawil. Having championed the Bay of Islands contest in 2020, Kawil’s return is eagerly anticipated. Also re-entering the Cup are two regatta favorites: Royal Huisman’s Sassafras, known for its elegant yet fierce approach to racing; and Janice of Wyoming, celebrated for her competitive edge and high-spirited crew.

In the Pacific Cup Class, Innismara will be joined by Lion New Zealand and Steinlager. Bolstered by the presence of twenty-one industry sponsors and an array of renowned sailors, the regatta promises to celebrate New Zealand’s unique sailing culture. The event is scheduled to run from February 1st to 4th in downtown Auckland, with the world regatta debut of the magnificent 81 meter Sea Eagle and the first NZ Millennium Cup appearance of the impressive Sharlou adding to the allure.