REVIEW. NEW WAVE SAILING: BMW SAIL RACING ACADEMY.

PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN.

When learning to sail, there is probably no better way to do so than off the coast of one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Europe, with a world champion sailor as a teacher.

That was exactly what almost 30 BMW i Pure Impulse guests from Europe and North America came to Mallorca for. They were greeted by gorgeous sunshine when they arrived at the beautiful Hilton Sa Torre resort, a 14th century historical property located on a serene spot on the island.

Refreshments and nibbles were served on the terrace, but there was not much time to admire the surroundings, as it was already time for the guests’ first sailing lesson.

Dressed in their official BMW sailing gear – which also was the giveaway for the weekend – guests met their coach, three-time America’s Cup sailor Roberto Ferrarese, who explained the basics of the sport. Then the guests stepped onto the five J/80 sailboats for their first on-water lessons. Afterwards, a well-deserved dinner awaited the sailors back at the hotel.

The next morning, it was time to explore the island during a Scenic Drive to the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountain range in a mixed BMW fleet. A magnificent view over the mountains and the ocean and a delicious breakfast at the Ca’S Xorc hotel was an ample reward for an early morning wake-up call.

A full day of sailing followed. Ferrarese taught the participants the most important strategies and tactics for racing and beating the competition. Spirits where still high from a fun and successful day when guests finally sat down to dinner at Tast Club Palma in the evening.

On Sunday, it was time for the sailors to show off their newly acquired skills during a short competition. After the prize-giving ceremony and team pictures, a farewell lunch overlooking the impressive port was served on the first floor of the Real Club Náutico.

Then, sadly, it was time to head to the airport for some to catch their flights home, while several lucky guests had opted to extend their stay for a private holiday. All agreed that it was an amazing weekend where some of them had found a new hobby to pursue in the future.