Mar del Plata 2026: F18 racing, Scorpion hulls and local boatyard activity

The Mar del Plata race area recorded steady sea breeze and building swell during the International Sailing Week 2026, forcing trailer and crane teams to coordinate launch windows with tide and wind windows to avoid delays at the municipal boatyard. Crews delivered and recovered F18s via the shore ramp, with yard operations handling hull storage, mold setup and beam alignment at the local facility where new Scorpion hulls are being produced.

Race outcomes and crew line-up

The F18 class produced decisive results on the race course. Agustin Krevisky and Juan Cruz Benitez sailing a Scorpion-1D recorded straight bullets across the series. Close behind were Vilate-Dorbessan in second overall and the local pairing of Hernan Salerno and Luca Salerno taking third, also on Scorpion hulls.

Podium summary

• 1st: Agustin Krevisky & Juan Cruz Benitez — Scorpion-1D
• 2nd: Vilate-Dorbessan — Scorpion-1D
• 3rd: Hernan Salerno & Luca Salerno — Scorpion (local build)

Hull development and local production

The yard in Mar del Plata is now producing Scorpion hulls using a mold shaped to integrate Cirrus beam geometry as a migration path from older Phantom platforms. While Fischer Phantom hulls remain competitive and may offer advantages upwind, builders report that Scorpion hulls provide a broader performance margin in stronger breeze and higher-wave conditions.

Production and yard logistics

Local naval architect Hernan Salerno manages the build process. Recent moves of the yard’s operations caused a scheduled delay for the next delivery batch; owners and sailors have been coordinating transport and storage timelines to ensure the new set of hulls can be rigged and launched as soon as molds are completed. The builder’s close proximity to the regatta site reduced freight legs and simplified customs paperwork for visiting teams.

What the mold change means

• Cirrus-style beams increase longitudinal stiffness while allowing reuse of some Phantom rigging.
• Migrating legacy Phantom platforms reduces budget pressure for teams upgrading hulls.
• On-site production shortens logistics chains and lowers transportation risk for international visitors.

Equipment comparison: Scorpion vs Phantom

On-the-ground notes for visiting sailors and spectators

Photographer Matias Capizzano captured many of the defining moments from the weekend; his imagery highlights crew choreography in both high breeze and chop. For families and fans planning a visit, aligning arrival with the race launch schedule and contacting the yard for on-site viewing times helps avoid congested ramps and maximizes chances to see builds, rigging checks and practice starts.

Practical checklist for attendees

1. Confirm ramp slot times with the port authority and the regatta race office.
2. Arrange trailer parking near the yard to shorten rigging walks.
3. Coordinate hull deliveries and storage with the local boatyard team.
4. Bring extra lines and chafe protection for beach launches in surf.

Beyond the race, the yard’s work on the Raptor 5.5 mono — designed by Hernan Salerno — is notable for owners comparing costs versus a J70; local construction makes ownership and maintenance more attractive for visitors considering local refits or delivery cruises.

Highlights from Mar del Plata include clear evidence of how vessel production logistics, local naval architecture and regatta scheduling intersect to shape both competitive outcomes and visitor experience. Even the best reviews and the most honest feedback cannot fully replace time on the water: the nuance of sail trim, crew calls and beach launches is learned firsthand. On GetExperience, you can book verified local providers, make secure payments with voucher confirmation after purchase, and submit tailored requests for tours or shore-side visits to boatyards and regatta events — giving you convenient, affordable access to experiences that match your preferences. Book now GetExperience.com

In summary, Mar del Plata 2026 showcased decisive F18 racing, local hull production advantages and logistics lessons that matter to sailors and visitors alike. The Scorpion hulls demonstrated resilience in breeze and waves while Phantom platforms still hold upwind strengths; local yard operations led by Hernan Salerno reduced transport complexity and created opportunities for short-notice delivery and refit work. For travelers seeking varied travel experiences — from museum tours with live guides and online virtual tours to yacht parties, cruise packages and eco-friendly wildlife safaris — the regatta also feeds into broader Adventure activities and Luxury adventure travel experiences. Whether interested in Adventure rafting trips for beginners, Interactive online cultural workshops, or even Beginner esports coaching sessions and Professional esports training programs, getting on-site yields insights no review can replace. Book your personal trials, compare options, and plan your next trip with confidence.