Thirty-seven days. Two-and-a-half million spectators. One legendary sailing competition. All of this is only a glimpse inside the magic of the America’s Cup.
In August 2024 on the legendary shores of Barcelona, just three short blocks from ISDIN global headquarters, the latest innovations in watercraft and sun care joined forces. As the Official Sun Protector of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, we embarked on a journey to help shield the skin of spectators, volunteers, and competitors alike.
Today, we’re reliving the most unforgettable moments with you. Ready to set sail?
Where it all began
England, 1851. The America anchored off the sands of Ryde Town after crossing the Atlantic from its native New York. Its captain had only one goal in mind: challenging the very best sailors from all of the yacht clubs in England. Showcasing U.S. naval ingenuity and beating the British boats in the annual Royal Yacht Squadron regatta, the America won the £100 trophy and set history in motion.
Cruising on to 1870, the New York Yacht Club redefined the trophy, officially founding the America’s Cup. This international competition was, and still is, characterized by one winner defending the cup until a challenger defeats them. This victor then becomes the new “defender” of the Cup.
Inside the 37th edition
Fast forward to 2024, to the breezy late-summer days in Barcelona. The Spanish city has been chosen as the setting for the America’s Cup regattas by the defenders: Emirates Team New Zealand.
The Mediterranean shores are preparing to host six international teams and four spectacular competitions, or Cups, through October. The buzz of preparations is heightened as this year marks a historical milestone: the first time a women-only Cup will be included.
At the same time, as the Official Sun Protector of the event ISDIN is gearing up to meet the world-renowned race participants, distribute sunscreens in Race Village, and experience the final of the Cup firsthand. All of this with one dream in mind: to continue inspiring a future without skin cancer.
On the water
World-champion sailor Nora Brugman sets the scene, “America’s Cup is the Formula One of sailing. It’s where the world’s fastest and most innovative boats come together to compete.”
Without seeing them in action, it can be hard to explain how awe-inspiring these vessels are. But Brugman’s teammate Jordi Xammar is up for the task, “The boats that compete in this race fly in the air. They have hydrofoils that lift them and once they pick up speed they come out of the water.”
However, this cutting-edge technology is only part of the equation. According to Brugman, “It’s not only about being fastest around the course. There are a lot of factors that influence the race: the wind, the waves, and different technical skills.”
Another important factor? The sun. “For me, it’s really important to apply sunscreen every two hours because I’m on the water all day,” shares Silvia Mas of Sail Team BCN. In the face of fierce competition, these sailors can’t afford to have anything slowing them down — especially sunburn.
Exploring Race Village
We make our way over to the almost 270,000-square-foot Race Village lining the city’s harbor. Entering the bustling area, the sounds of live music, multiple languages, and bellowing announcements overwhelm the senses. It’s a joyful scene — a lively sea of team colors representing unique identities and shared experiences.
Among the mix of hues, an orange trolley stands out. Upon encountering Raul Casañas, ISDIN Global Sports & Partnerships Manager, he smiles and shares, “We brought our Sun Trolleys to help spectators enjoy the sun safely. Whether on deck or on the terrace, sunscreen helps keep skin happy and healthy.” Science backs him up — consistent use of sunscreen is one of the best ways to lower your risk of skin cancer.
Moving through the crowd, smiling faces in turquoise polos are at every turn — many of them with yellow lanyards sporting ISDIN sunscreen around their necks. It’s the uniform of the over 2,000 volunteers who made this incredible event possible. Each of them is dedicated to making sure fans enjoy the races, and the sun, responsibly.
The final moments
After weeks of anticipation, the last race of the Cup lands on a perfect blue-sky day in mid-October. The crowd lines the shore, their cheers echoing across the water. Tension hangs in the air as the two boats, Emirates Team New Zealand and INEOS Britannia, jockey for position at the start line.
The lead changes hands several times, the crowd roaring with every maneuver. In the end, Emirates Team New Zealand secures their place in history as the first-ever three-time consecutive America’s Cup champions. The harbor erupts in cheers as the Kiwi team sails triumphantly past the finish line — a testament to their skill and determination, infused with a bit of magic.
Amy is a content strategist who turned a part-time obsession with skincare into a full-time passion. Her experience as a creative storyteller includes a range of lifestyle and technology topics across Washington D.C. and Barcelona. What’s in her travel bag? Eye contour cream and sunscreen, always.
