Ilhabela hosts International Sailing Week with 13 club boats and Monotipos opening

The Yacht Club de Ilhabela (YCI) will compete with 13 boats across a range of classes in the 53rd International Sailing Week, showcasing projects that include Olympic medalists, world champions, a women‑only crew, classic restorations and youth training initiatives. Club spokesperson Marcelo Navarro said, “Ocean sailing is the ultimate expression of teamwork, strategy, resilience and passion for the sea.”

The official opening of the Monotipos segment was held on July 9 at the Lars Grael Municipal Sailing School, featuring eight classes such as Optimist, Dinghy, Finn, 420, Snipe, Kitesurf and Wing‑Foil Race. Mayor Toninho Colucci remarked, “Opening the Sailing Month reaffirms our commitment to new talent and Ilhabela’s nautical heritage.” The Monotipos races run through July 11 and mark the start of a month‑long program that culminates in the main ocean competition from July 24 to August 1, attracting top Brazilian teams and entries from Argentina, Uruguay and other countries.

The event is a key driver of tourism for Ilhabela, generating about R$ 50 million in 2025 and supporting local hotels, restaurants, transport services and cultural activities at the Race Village, which offers music, environmental education and leisure options for residents and visitors.