April 1, 2006 marks the start of the inaugural SuperYacht Pacific Rally, when a fleet of motor and sailing yachts 75 feet and longer will set off from Salinas, Ecuador, for the Galapagos. This is the first leg of an 10,000-mile voyage that concludes in Australia. Organizers will cap the number of participating yachts at 25 for the 10-leg crossing, and are preparing exclusive events at each destination for the yacht owners and crew.

To accommodate yachts of this size, new facilities are being constructed in New Caledonia and 38 new super- yacht berths will be available in Tahiti. The New Zealand Marine Export Group (NZ Marine) also is using its influence with the South Pacific islands to affect vital changes that will endorse the area as a world cruising destination. As a result of NZ Marine’s involvement, Fiji and French Polynesia are implementing changes to their legislation to allow foreign-flagged vessels to offer charters in their waters.

SuperYacht Pacific Rally at 64 (0)9 410 2770. www.sypacific.com