The Gulf of Cagliari, known locally as the Golfo degli Angeli (Gulf of Angels), opens to the south from the Sardinian capital. The wide, deep bay provides excellent sailing conditions with thermal breezes that build reliably through the morning. Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli has established its America’s Cup base here, making Cagliari a year-round hub for AC75 and AC40 development.
The gulf’s geography creates favorable conditions for foiling boats. The bay is wide enough for long racing legs, the water is relatively flat (protected from northerly swell by the island itself), and the thermal breeze builds from the south with good consistency. The sea temperature in May is 18-20 degrees Celsius, warm enough for comfortable conditions but cool enough to keep air density favorable for sail performance.
Cagliari itself is a vibrant Mediterranean city of 150,000, with a historic old town (Castello) perched on a hill overlooking the port. The waterfront has been developed to accommodate sailing events, and the local government has invested in infrastructure to support the America’s Cup Preliminary Regattas.
The IANA timezone is Europe/Rome (CEST, UTC+2 during summer). A 13:00 CEST start converts to 12:00 BST in London, 07:00 EDT in New York, and 21:00 AEST in Sydney.
Italy’s investment in the America’s Cup through Luna Rossa, combined with the national passion for sailing and yacht design, makes Cagliari a natural home for the Preliminary Regattas. The city’s position on Sardinia’s southern coast provides easy access to sailing waters without the crowding that characterizes the Costa Smeralda during peak season.