SHERIDAN, WYOMING - November 10, 2025 - For the first time in its storied history, Nautor Swan's sailing legacy sets course for Asian waters. The inaugural Swan Asian Regatta will take place from November 7-9, 2025, at the picturesque Riviera Zushi Marina in Japan - a stunning venue overlooking Sagami Bay with views of Mount Fuji.
The event marks a milestone for both Nautor Swan and Japan's growing sailing community, uniting owners, crews, and enthusiasts for three days of sport, celebration, and cultural exchange. More than just a regatta, it's a symbol of shared passion, craftsmanship, and friendship on the open sea.
"We are looking to Japanese waters as one of the areas where our boats can perform and express their beauty," said Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan. "We have some passionate Japanese owners, and they deserve a dedicated event, just as we do in Europe."
A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Community
At its heart, the Swan Asian Regatta is about connection - between sailors, the sea, and the timeless artistry of yacht design. The event is hosted in partnership with the Riviera Group, whose Chairman and CEO, Mr. Noboru Watanabe, has been instrumental in bringing this dream to life.
"When I took part in the Rolex Swan Cup in Sardinia in 2024, I felt the true spirit that makes the Swan family so unique - passion, friendship, and a deep love for the sea," said Watanabe. "Through the shared vision and friendship with CEO Giovanni Pomati, I am truly delighted to welcome the Swan Asian Regatta to Riviera Zushi Marina."
Among those joining the race are prominent figures from Japan's sailing community, including Mr. Watanabe aboard his Swan 58 Qualia Riviera, and Mr. Kojiro Shiraishi, the only Asian sailor to complete the Vendée Globe twice. Mr. Masahiro Banba, Chairman of the Japan Sailing Federation, will also compete on his ClubSwan 42 Summergirl. Adding to the international spirit, Mrs. Tanja Jääskeläinen, Ambassador of Finland to Japan, will attend the Owners' Dinner to celebrate this new chapter in global sailing culture.
Sailing for a Better Ocean
The regatta's theme, "Sailing for a Better Ocean," underlines a shared mission: protecting the seas that give sailing its soul. In collaboration with the Riviera Future Creation Project, part of each yacht's entry fee will fund marine sustainability initiatives - from Blue Carbon Belt® seaweed restoration and marine wildlife protection to ocean waste reduction and environmental education for young people.
To minimize impact, the event enforces a no single-use plastic policy. Reusable bottles and refill stations will be standard, and teams are encouraged to adopt sustainable hydration systems. The regatta's final day will honor children involved in marine conservation efforts, celebrating the next generation's role in protecting ocean life.
A New Era of Elegance and Purpose
The Swan Asian Regatta isn't just another event on the sailing calendar - it's the beginning of something bigger. It opens a new chapter for Nautor Swan in Asia, where performance, design, and environmental stewardship meet in perfect harmony.
With Riviera Zushi Marina's world-class setting and a growing community of passionate sailors, this regatta embodies everything the Swan name stands for: elegance, adventure, and respect for the sea.
As the sails rise over Sagami Bay and the peaks of Mount Fuji glimmer in the distance, the message is clear - the Swan spirit has found a new home in Asia, and it's ready to chart a sustainable course toward the future.