On the 8th May 2015, a flotilla of 18 yachts ranging from 48 – 82ft with more than 100 guests aboard, set cruise from Port Adriano en route for Barcelona – destination – the Barcelona Grand Prix, courtesy of Princess Motor Yacht Sales, Mallorca.
It was a sight to behold, as the flotilla led by Rubio, a sleek Princess 72, edged out of the marina, beginning its journey across the Mediterranean, heading for Port Vell, Barcelona – the final destination.
The flotilla halted briefly for a rendezvous close to Santa Ponsa, where several more yachts joined from nearby Palma, Portals and Andratx, before continuing the cruise once again. Conditions were near perfect. Moving north along the Dragonera channel at 20 knots, the sole interruption to the still waters – a pod of dolphins, breaking the surface before disappearing into the deep blue sea.
The flotilla arriving that afternoon at Port Vell, Barcelona was given a warm welcome by marina staff, who saw each and every yacht into its berth over on the South side of the marina. This exclusive marina, billed as a worldclass home port for superyachts, is located in the heart of Barcelona – a stone’s throw from the vibrant city centre, but with its own exclusive selection of facilities, fine dining and entertainment close by.
On arrival, guests had just enough time to sit back and enjoy a refreshing drink on the aft deck, before heading out to La Barceloneta, a restaurant famed for its exceptional seafood and even more spectacular views out across the marina. Arriving to join in with the camaraderie, and in-keeping with the theme of the weekend, British Grand Prix veteran Damon Hill – in town for the Barcelona Grand Prix, and happy to chat in the friendly atmosphere.
Day 2…
Day two and it was off to the race track for those vital qualifiers. For those who didn’t fancy two straight days amidst the noise and excitement of the track – a little retail therapy or further relaxation on-board, followed by a night out enjoying the hustle and bustle of Barcelona’s night life – which was buzzing with the Grand Prix in town.
Race day…
The day of the race arrived hot and still. Two coaches stood outside the Port Vell marina ready to transport more than 100 Princess owners and their guests to the famous Circuit de Catalunya, Barcelona. The seats were spectacular. Positioned just ahead of the first corner and at the end of the pit lane, they could not have provided a better view of the action. The atmosphere was almost palpable with the excitement of the home crowd, as they urged their own Fernando Alonso on. In spite of the additional British support from the lively Princess crowd, Lewis Hamilton could only take second place as he was edged out of winning position by team-mate Nico Rosberg.
Return Voyage…
So it was a relaxed and happy band of Princess owners who tucked into their breakfast al-fresco the following morning, and as the weekend’s excitement drew to a close, they started the return voyage, leaving just one or two boats behind to continue to enjoy the sights and sounds of Barcelona.
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