The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS)

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), founded by His Highness Aga Khan in 1967, is one of the most renowned yacht clubs in the world. Nestled in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, the club was created as part of the Aga Khan’s vision for developing the Costa Smeralda into an exclusive destination for luxury and maritime excellence. Over the decades, YCCS has hosted countless regattas, becoming synonymous with elite sailing, innovation, and tradition.

One of the YCCS’s most significant contributions to international yachting is its connection with Azzurra, the legendary yacht that represented Italy in the 1983 America’s Cup. Azzurra, backed by the YCCS, made history as Italy’s first challenger in the prestigious competition. Its presence and performance electrified the nation, capturing the hearts of sailing enthusiasts and marking a new chapter in Italian sailing history. Although Azzurra did not win the Cup, the team’s efforts were seen as a great victory for Italian sailing and a testament to YCCS’s growing global reputation.

The YCCS has also been associated with illustrious figures in the sailing world, including royalty and top yacht designers. Throughout its history, the club has attracted prominent personalities from around the world who have contributed to its rich tradition of excellence. Major partnerships, such as its long-standing relationship with Rolex, further cement the YCCS’s status as a global leader in sailing events.

Some of the epic challenges held at YCCS include the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, a gathering of the world’s largest and most advanced sailing yachts, and the Rolex Swan Cup, which celebrates the design legacy of Nautor Swan. These events are not just competitions but also gatherings of sailing aficionados, where history is made year after year.

In its pursuit of pushing boundaries, the club has also embraced modern technologies and sustainability, using robotic buoys and initiatives aligned with environmental stewardship, maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation【22†source】【23†source】【13†source】.