"We had a great trip during the inaugural edition in 2007," says Yerin Hobson of Dark Shadow. "The team spirit on board was excellent and although the competition was fierce we fought right up to the end in the true spirit of racing."

Two early entries for the 2008 race are Sojana, the 115-foot Farr designed Bermudian ketch owned by Peter Harrison (GBR), and Bossanova, the Simonis 67 belonging to YCCS member Pietro Motta (ITA). Sojana is familiar with victory in Caribbean waters having won the St. Barth Bucket (2007) as well as the St. Martin Heineken Regatta (2008, 2007).

The Transatlantic Maxi Yacht Cup is open to monohull Maxi yachts with a minimum overall length of 59 feet that are in compliance with the IMA's five division regulations (Racing, Cruising, Wally, Spirit of Tradition and Mini Maxi).