It does not happen too often that one can combine business with pleasure. Sponsoring the Alpina Swan is such beautiful combination. For our Alpina brand, we operate a Swan 82 Feet FD to promote our collection of Alpina Sailing Watches. Launched in 2012, the Alpina Regatta Timer features an unique countdown mechanism enabling sailing yachts to start regattas flawlessly. Winning the 34th edition of the world famous Heineken Regatta is a strong confirmation of Alpina’s timing precision.

The Swan 82 “Alpina” is an up to date expression of the fast Maxi-cruiser concept, a modern sailing super yacht built to be fast, yet be perfectly in keeping with Swan’s traditional core values: combining speed, seaworthiness, technology and innovation to ensure exceptional performance.

On the podium to receive the First Prize

Recently, while on the helm, we managed to win the 2014 Heineken Regatta in Saint Martin. Alpina raced three regattas around St. Martin and opposite Anguilla. March 7-9, everyday saw a 26-32 nautical miles race, Alpina finished each first, giving it a solid overall first position for the entire regatta.

Sailing a Super Yacht is an intense team effort that demands perfectly timed execution of manoeuvres during a regatta. Margin of error is extremely low when winds blow 20-25 knots in hundreds of square meters sail. Loads on sheets measure up to 12000 kg. One mistake can cut-off fingers in less than a second. Arms or legs can break anytime when caught in sheets. Hence, it is all-important that the crew team works in close cooperation with clear communication. No mistakes allowed!