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2012 RORC Caribbean 600 yacht race with start on 20th February

January 27, 2012

With less than one month to go, to the fourth edition of the RORC Caribbean 600, the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s 2012 programme starts with a sensational cast in Antigua. The RORC Caribbean 600 is a truly international affair, with well over 500 competitors from at least 24 different nations taking part. More than 30 beautiful yachts are expected to participate in a high-speed, action-packed yacht race around 11 Caribbean islands.

Setting off from Antigua in the 2011 RORC Caribbean 600 Credit Tim WrightPhotoaction.com

Setting off from Antigua in the 2011 RORC Caribbean 600 Credit: Tim Wright/Photoaction.com

There can be few sporting events that can boast such a worldwide appeal with sailors taking part from all over the world including: Antigua, Australia, Austria, Canada, Cayman Islands, Croatia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Puerto Rico, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, St. Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, Turkey and the United States of America.

This astounding diversity of nationalities is matched only by the astonishingarray of yachts and personalities. The largest yacht competing this year is the magnificent sailing yacht Hetairos with a waterline length of 200′. Hetairos superyacht is the world’s largest carbon composite sailing yacht. The 29 crew on board is composed of many Volvo Ocean Race, America’s Cup and Jules Verne around the world veterans. The luxury yacht Hetairos is among the favourites to take line honours, but there are several other yachts more than capable of finishing in front.

67m Sailing yacht Hetairos - Credit Baltic Yachts

67m Sailing yacht Hetairos - Credit Baltic Yachts

In 2011 American George David skippered Rambler 100 yacht to smash the monohull course record, taking line honours and overall victory. David’s team is back, this time with the Reichel Pugh 90, Rambler yacht and they are unlikely to give up the title without a fight. The Spanish Volvo 70, Gran Jotti will be dwarfed by the super yacht Hetairos, but the former Telefonica Black has a venomous turn of speed and is quite capable of out pacing the entire fleet. On board there is a huge wealth of talent in the form of Spanish America’s Cup and Volvo Ocean Race sailors. These three are likely to be contenders for line honours, but overall victory under IRC is far more difficult to predict. A hot contender is Niklas Zennstrom’s Judel/Vrolijk 72 Rán yacht, which will be making its debut in the RORC Caribbean 600.

Rán navigator, Steve Hayles is one of the world’s most experienced offshore sailors but this will be the first time he has tackled the intricate course around the central Caribbean, “For me it’s very refreshing to tackle a new race and the Caribbean 600 is a real fascination,” explained Hayles. “It’s unlike any other offshore race in that the average leg is only about 40 miles and for a navigator there is a lot to consider. Normally, a race is all about the weather and strategy but in addition to all that, this race takes you back to the basic problem of navigating around so many rocks and islands. Looking through all the legs, there is a broad mixture of sailing angles; there is a fair bit of reaching, but it is wrong to think that is not a challenge, especially with the speed sensitivity of modern high-performance boats. The course is more like a whole stream of complex coastal races. I have to say that it is a pretty unique race.”

Niklas Zennstrom's JudelVrolijk 72 Rán Credit Jody Sallons DayAntigua Sailing Week

Niklas Zennstrom's JudelVrolijk 72 yacht Rán Credit: Jody Sallons Day/Antigua Sailing Week

A dazzling variety of yachts crewed by some of the world’s finest will be racing this year. However, not all of the competitors are seasoned professionals. One of the smallest yachts competing this year is J/39 Sleeper, which will be raced two-handed by a father and son team. Jonty Layfield and son Jack are both RORC members and hale from Brighton, UK.

Last year with a full crew, Jonty’s won class at Antigua Sailing Week, “Sailing Two-Handed with my son, I don’t expect to be very competitive, we are not going to go flat out but treat the race more like a delivery trip,” admitted Jonty. “I have raced double-handed with my son back in England and I have been sailing with Jack since he was about five years old, we are more like friends than father and son. The great thing about sailing is that you have to get on with it; you can’t have any histrionics. Jack is working in Brazil at the moment and the RORC Caribbean 600 is a great way to spend a few days together.”

Close duels are expected right through the fleet, none more so than in the Class 40s where a hard fought and close encounter is expected. Tradewind sailing provides perfect conditions for Class 40s, with long reaches and downwind legs, these pocket rockets are capable of surfing at speeds of up to 25 knots. Peter Harding’s 40 Degrees yacht has Hannah Jenner as skipper, the only female to skipper the Clipper Round the World Race.

Hannah Jenner on Peter Harding's 40 Degrees in the 2011 Transat Jacque Vabre Credit Alexis Courcoux

Hannah Jenner on Peter Harding's 40 Degrees yacht in the 2011 Transat Jacque Vabre Credit: Alexis Courcoux

Hannah was in fine form last year, gaining a podium position in the Class 40 Transat Jacques Vabre, “Antigua is a beautiful place to start the season with some winter sunshine and I have heard that Antigua Yacht Club provides a great party!” smiled Hannah. ” The race course has plenty of activity with sail changes and the competition should be really close. Making the right tactical decisions will also be very important if we are to be the fastest Class 40 around the track. I am really looking forward to the race.”

RORC Chief Executive Eddie Warden Owen believes that the RORC Caribbean 600 is especially attractive to larger yachts, however the ethos of the club maintains equal status to every participant.  “A wide spectrum of yachts and competitors has decided that this is an event that is not to be missed. The club is delighted that people from all over the world want to take part. There is a mixture of world class sailors and corinthian enthusiasts, but they all have one thing in common, a passion for offshore racing.”

“This average length of yacht for this year’s entry is over 70′. When the Royal Ocean Racing Club started this race in 2009, we felt it would appeal to larger yachts and that has proved to be the case. This year we have a significant number of Racing Maxis, Super Yachts and Spirit of Tradition yachts. However, every yacht competing in the RORC Caribbean 600 is governed by the same set of rules. All of the competitors receive a warm welcome from the Antigua Yacht Club, regardless of their finish time or place. Since 1925, The Royal Ocean Racing Club has promoted offshore racing for all and in many ways the RORC Caribbean 600 typifies that cause.”

76th Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race

January 25, 2012

Six records were broken and six skippers won their weight in Extra Old Mount Gay Rum when the Barbados Cruising Club successfully presented the 2012 Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race on Saturday 21st January 2012. Ideal conditions out on the water saw the round Barbados records tumble.

The Reichel Pugh Maxi 78’ Idea Yacht Credit Bim Media Group - Bim.bb

The Reichel Pugh Maxi 78’ Idea Yacht - Credit: Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

The race attracted 28 entries from around the world with one yacht arriving just the day before the event having sailed from Italy directly to Barbados. That effort was rewarded as the crew collected their skipper’s weight in Mount Gay Rum.

The Reichel Pugh Maxi 78’ Idea yacht is skippered by Tony McBride, who attended last year’s event and had vowed to return with something bigger to break the Absolute Monohull Record and he easily achieved that goal, breaking the previous record, held by Ron Joyce and Destination Fox Harb’r by 17 minutes, in a time of 5 hours 3 minutes 34 seconds.

Sailing yacht Idea - Credit Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

Sailing yacht Idea - Credit: Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

Silver Bullet, Roberts 30’ yacht Supercat, skippered by Barbados Cruising Club member Bryn Palmer, took 16 minutes off the existing Absolute Multihull Record in a time of 4 hours 24 minutes 27 seconds.

Rappajam with captain Ralph “Brugga” Johnson established a new class record for yachts 60 foot and under, while sister yacht Bruggadung, captained by Paul Johnson set a new class record for yachts under 35 foot.

New records were also set in both the single handed and double handed classes with Immigrant, skippered by David Staples and crewed by Dr John Duckhouse setting a new record for a double handed yacht. Five yachts started the race double handed, and all beat the previous double handed record.

Roberts 30’ yacht Supercat - Credit Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

Roberts 30’ yacht Supercat - Credit: Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

Two double handers, Matador and Deliverance were ‘live aboard’ yachts recently arrived in Barbados after their Atlantic Crossing. Captain Peter Hoad also established a new record for a single-handed yacht on his J24, Jabulani in a time of 9 hours 49 minutes 58 seconds.

Trading Brigantine Tres Hombres was the last yacht to finish, safely returning a group of children from the Barbados “Kids At Sea” youth sailing programme back to Carlisle Bay shortly before 10 pm at night.

This was the first year that use was made of the inner basin of the Careenage as a place to moor the yachts and also it was a first for the setting up of a yacht regatta village.

The yacht regatta village is a new concept to Barbados and sets up well for the world class event which Barbados will be hosting in December when yachts will arrive for the finish of the Classic Transat 2012.

Sailing yacht Supercat - Credit Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

Sailing yacht Supercat - Credit: Bim Media Group - Bim.bb.

This event has so far attracted 33 entries and with seven months to go before the start, the organizers expect a further 12 yachts bringing the total to 45.

The Barbados Cruising Club wishes to thank the event sponsors, Mount Gay Rum, The Barbados Tourism Authority, LIMEtv, The Loomba Foundation, The Beach House, Miele, Indigo Island, Port Louis Marina and Diamonds International.

The Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race will return on January 21st 2013.

2012 Landmark Year for Wally – Wally//Cento, Wally/50m and Wally//Ace Yachts scheduled for launch this year

January 23, 2012

2012 will be a landmark year for Wally Yachts with the launches of three important new classes of vessel: Wally’s first ever displacement motor yacht Wally//Ace, the first ever mega sailing yacht Wally//50m and two of the Wally’s newest and highest performing cruiser-racer sailing yachts, the Wally//Cento.

26.23m Motor Yacht Wally//Ace

26.23m Motor Yacht Wally//Ace - Image courtesy of Wally

Wally//Ace
Motor yacht Wally//Ace is a vessel like no other, with huge open spaces and a degree of light and quality of design unmatched by any yacht in her class. The unique owner’s suite aft has direct access to a terrace on the sea, while the social spaces blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

A huge onboard garage stores a 6m yacht tender plus all the usual water toys and an unusually spacious galley and crew quarters mean that the guests can be pampered in the greatest style. Whisper-quiet, fuel-efficient diesel engines can take them non-stop from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, while an exceptional hull design and gyroscopic stabilisation ensure a smooth and stable ride.

Sailing Yacht Wally//50

Sailing Yacht Wally//50

Wally//50
Sailing yacht Wally//50 is the first megayacht of her size built entirely in advanced composites. This stunning sloop is designed to combine Wally’s trademark performance and ease of handling with all the modern comforts and amenities of a luxury megayacht. In order to boost performance she features a lifting keel that increases the draft from 4.2m to 6m when sailing, PBO rigging, and water tanks that double as water ballasts.

100ft sailing yacht Wallycento

100ft sailing yacht Wally//Cento

Wally//Cento
The 100ft sailing yacht Wally Cento combines high-tech racing performance with spacious and comfortable interiors. The Wally//Cento superyacht, which is based around a lightweight carbon composite hull, was designed by naval architect firm Judel Vrolijk.

Additionally, the 2012 edition of the FT Wally Grand Prix Series will feature five yacht regattas packed with action and excitement, showcasing the world’s largest fleet of maxi-yachts crewed by talent from the America’s Cup and Olympics.

Entries Open for the 2012 J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race

January 20, 2012

The Island Sailing Club (ISC) is pleased to confirm that the first entry registered by the Race Entries team at 12.04am for this year’s J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race is the Bavaria 46 sailing yacht Inseyandra,  owned and skippered by Martin Thomas from Kings Langley in Hertfordshire.  Martin is a Yachtmaster Instructor and Principal of Solent Sail Ltd, an RYA sailing school, and he will be competing on 30th June with an amateur crew of ten on board.

The triple Olympic Gold medallist Ben Ainslie

The triple Olympic Gold medallist Ben Ainslie

In what has become an annual tradition at the ISC, Lea Bennett, Club Secretary, telephoned Martin Thomas this morning to congratulate him on being the first entry and also revealed to him that he had in fact just pipped the triple Olympic Gold medallist Ben Ainslie CBE to the post with his Race entry which was filed just two minutes later!

Martin Thomas said, “I am extremely happy and very proud to be the first entry in but also feel incredibly privileged to be racing against an Olympic champion in surely one of the only yacht races where this is actually possible!”

As it commences an eighth year as Race Title Sponsor, J.P. Morgan Asset Management confirms that Ben, whom the company also Title sponsors, has indeed entered this year’s Race and, furthermore, it’s the only time when he will be competing outside of the Finn class before the Olympics. In this most historic of sporting years for Great Britain and one in which Ben, GB’s most successful Olympic sailor ever, is hoping to make history, he will skipper J.P. Morgan Asset Management Winston (GBR 2806L), a very competitive Beneteau First 40 yacht.

The first Race start is scheduled for 0700 on Saturday 30th June.

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011: Revving up for a Best-Ever Edition

January 20, 2012

The Les Voiles de Saint-Barth is just three years young and is already preparing for its third annual running, held in April 2-7. Taking place on the beautiful French island in the northeastern Caribbean, the yacht regatta continues to show signs of healthy growth and popularity with a roster that promises not only to expand by almost a third over last years 47 entrants but also to showcase the best sailing talent as well as some of sailings most fantastic racing machines.

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - Day 6 Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - Day 6 Credit: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

With more entries, we are able to have more classes, making the racing tighter in each, said LVSB Competition Manager Annelisa Gee, who pointed out that robust numbers in spinnaker racing have already allowed for a split into two classes for that division. The event also will be appending its Notice of Race to accommodate IRC racing for a class of 52 footers that will include Peter Cunninghams (Georgetown, Grand Cayman) Powerplay, Jim Swartzs (Park City, Utah, USA) Vesper, Irvine Laidlaws (Monaco) Highland Fling, and Ashley Wolfes (Calgary, AB, Canada) Mayhem.

The news of the collapse of the MedCup (official international competition of the TP52 and Soto 40 classes) is bad for the grand prix corporate-sponsored end of the sport but okay for the rest of us said Powerplay project manager and crew member Tony Rey (Middletown, R.I.), a three-time Americas Cup veteran, as all the existing TP52s will race together under IRC in 2012 at several fantastic Mediterranean venues. With eight IRC 52s, including Powerplay, currently competing in Key West, Rey knows that having four already signed up for Les Voiles de Saint Barth insures yet another worthy contest right before the yacht is scheduled to ship overseas.

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - Photo by: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

“We’ve had a great year developing the Powerplay team”, said Rey, explaining that Powerplay Racing was founded in 2011 even before Cunninghams acquisition of the TP52 yacht (formerly named Synergy), which has been admirably representing the Cayman Islands in regattas mostly on the East and West Coasts of the U.S. Peter is really excited to get back down to the Caribbean with this yacht.

Not the least of Powerplays worries, Vesper will be sporting much of the same crew that helped Jim Swartz win Les Voiles de Saint-Barth last year and has been sailing with him since he took the boat over from Quantum Racing about a year ago. While Swartz drives, Gavin Brady will call tactics and Francesco Mongelli will navigate. Mongelli navigated the TP52 Quantum Racing to a TP52 Worlds victory in 2011.

Sailing Yacht Vesper Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Sailing Yacht Vesper Credit: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Sailing under CSA (Caribbean Sailing Association) measurement rules will be additional classes for maxi yachts (75 feet/22.86 meters and longer), racing yachts (spinnaker and non-spinnaker), classic yachts and multihulls.

Peter Harrisons 115´ charter yacht Sojana, the 35m Farr design that has been participating for years in grand prix racing events around the world, will serve as the events flag ship, of sorts, as Harrison has been tapped as the 2012 events ceremonial Godfather, a distinction that last year was bestowed upon singer Jimmy Buffet.

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - DAY 5 Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth 2011 - DAY 5 Credit: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Though Harrison is not expected to perform on the music stage, the famous philanthropist will no doubt aspire to make the awards platform after sailing against such other power house entries in the super maxi class as the 112´ (34m) Baltic sailing yacht Nilaya, the 112´ (34m) Nautor Swan charter yacht Highland Breeze, the 115´ (35m) Classen Yachtbouw super yacht Firefly and the 90´ (27.4m) Reichel/Pugh Rambler superyacht.

This is obviously a very strong competitor group and it will be difficult for the luxury yacht Sojana and crew to retain or improve on its third (finish) position in 2011, said Harrison, who counts this as his third time competing in the Les Voiles de Saint-Barth and senses that it is his strong sense of adventure and competitiveness that helped gain him the honor of being named its Godfather.

112´ super yacht Highland Breeze by Swan Nautor Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

112´ super yacht Highland Breeze by Swan Nautor Credit: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Among the reasons Harrison gives for the yacht regattas success are its location, the impressive organization, the strength and quality of the competitiors, and of course the concomitant social and fun part of meeting the other crew.

“Nilaya is a relatively new boat, which in its first year won the Super Yacht Cup in Palma and the Super Maxi division in the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Sardinia. We have a great team, which has been sailing together for several years on the owner’s (Filip Balcaen) previous boats”, said Bouwe Bekking, who will serve as tactician after having competed last year here aboard Highland Breeze. The crew is predominantly from Belgium and Holland and the owner will drive.

“Speaking to the competition he expects”, Bekking explained, “We are a cruiser/racer, with all the luxuries you can have onboard, but we will sail flat out. Sojana and Highland Breeze are the real competition, as it is apples to oranges to compare us to Rambler and Firefly. They are flat-out racers with no interiors, but we might be in for a surprise, as we have beaten many racers during the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez.”

Peter Harrisons 115´ super yacht Sojana Christophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

Peter Harrisons 115´ super yacht Sojana Credit: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

While last year the luxury yacht Highland Breezes owner Ben Kolff hosted his employees on board for a chance to experience the exciting and – in this location, anyway – exotic world of grand prix sailboat racing, this year he has a crew of “hard core yachties. Bekking noted, however, that the crew is comprised predominantly of amateur sailors in combination with a few professionals.

Rambler yacht is quite the opposite with a largely professional crew. It won the inaugural Les Voiles de Saint-Barth with George David (Hartford, Conn.) steering, and last year, David won again at the helm of Rambler 100, a distance racer purpose-built for breaking records. The latter yacht lost its keel and capsized, however, in the 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race and was deemed unrecoverable for racing purposes. Reverting back to his 90-footer for the 2012 season, David has already won the Ft. Lauderdale to Key West Race and plans to defend his 2011 RORC Caribbean 600 title (where he broke the monohull race record) before heading to Saint-Barth.

90´ ReichelPugh Rambler SuperyachtChristophe Jouany Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

90´ Reichel/Pugh Rambler Superyacht Photo by: Christophe Jouany/Les Voiles de Saint-Barth

With a Tuesday through Saturday schedule that includes four days of intense racing, the Les Voiles de Saint-Barth will kick off on Monday, April 2, with opening ceremonies and cocktails at the festive Race Village on the Quai General de Gaulle overlooking Gustavia Harbor, where the event is headquartered. One lay day has been reserved for competitors and friends to discover this quaint little collectivity of France, with events planned at Nikki Beach that include lunch and a surprise sporting challenge for all crews. Evening activities include off-site parties as well as post-racing bands and entertainment in the Race Village.

Two new orders for Mulder Shipyard: Motor yachts Mulder 75 Wheelhouse and Mulder Favorite 1300 Convertible

January 19, 2012

Mulder Shipyard has announced two new orders from customers in the United Kingdom and The Netherlands, creating am excellent start to 2012 for the Dutch shipyard. Mulder Shipyard is expecting a memorable year in general, with a number of yachts due to be delivered and the opening of the brand-new facility, construction of which is currently in full swing. In every aspect, Mulder Shipyard is ready for the future. The new orders are for a Mulder 75 Wheelhouse yacht and a Mulder Favorite 1300 Convertible boat, both to be built in aluminium.

Mulder 75 Wheelhouse Yacht

Mulder 75 Wheelhouse Yacht

The Mulder Favorite 1300 Convertible will represent the first convertible version in the Favorite range, which Mulder Shipyard reintroduced into the market in early 2011. The Motor Yacht Mulder 75 Wheelhouse is the prototype for a new model in the Wheelhouse range, with various redeveloped and streamlined aspects. Although the yacht is being built for a customer from the UK, her berth will be in north-eastern USA.

The Motor Yacht Mulder 75 Wheelhouse will be delivered in 2013 and measures 23.15 m, with a beam of 5.62 m. The yacht will have a round bilged hull and a maximum speed of around 20 knots via twin Caterpillar C12 engines of 715 hp each. Her sophisticated lines, dark blue hull, white superstructure, and solid teak decks and gunwale will make for a highly elegant appearance. The interior will be spacious and well thought through, with an owner’s stateroom, a VIP suite and two guest cabins. A tender storage space and crew cabin will be installed aft.

Mulder Favorite 1300 Cabrio Yacht Tender

Mulder Favorite 1300 Convertible Yacht Tender

The Mulder Favorite 1300 Convertible yacht tender will measure 13.50 m, with a beam of 4.50 m. The yacht will be equipped with twin Volvo D3 engines providing 150 hp each, giving a top speed of 15 knots. A large electrically operated convertible top with ensure a very sporty appearance, as well as creating a large open al fresco space. The interior will comprise two cabins, a spacious galley, a toilet and a separate shower. The yacht is slated for delivery in the summer of 2012.

The end of this year will also see the new Mulder Shipyard facilities come into operation. The first yacht to be built at the new yard will be the new 30-metre Mulder 98 Flybridge motor yacht, set to be finished in the summer of 2013. The construction of the new yard is continuing apace, with the pouring of concrete floors in the halls and dry dock due to begin soon.

Superyacht Challenge Antigua, January 27-29, 2012

January 19, 2012

Simply unique in the Caribbean, Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour Antigua is a holy place for sailors young and old. The extraordinary streets and celebrated Georgian buildings illustrate over 300 years of maritime history.

English Harbour Antigua

English Harbour Antigua

The dockyard is a unique setting, which commands admiration and this January, a fitting yachting regatta will take place in these esteemed surroundings. A dazzling array of the world’s most prestigious sailing yachts will attend The Superyacht Challenge Antigua.

A rare occasion to celebrate sailing, for a truly impressive guest list, which is now fully committed to the event.

The 181´ sailing yacht Adela – Twin Masted Schooner incorporating every conceivable modern yacht system with a graceful and classic profile both on deck and throughout a sumptuous interior. A predecessor of the J-class America’s Cup, combining exceptional performance with the charm and elegance of a golden era.

The 80´ super yacht Drumfire – Bermudan Sloop, which won the 2011 Superyacht Cup Palma. A classic design with exceptional performance both inshore and offshore. The smallest yacht at the regatta can punch well above its weight. Superb craftsmanship throughout with flush decks and the latest in sail control systems, offer exceptional sail-handling ability.

The 100´ luxury yacht Marama – Ketch with a unique personality, starting life as an abandoned project before being transformed into a distinctive yacht of functional rather than fashionable design. The interior has the feel of a modern penthouse, the deck and rig lay out are honed for speed. A truly individual endeavour.

100´ sailing yacht Marama

100´ sailing yacht Marama

The 180´ Marie superyacht – Ketch nominated for the 2011 Robb Report ‘Best of the Best’ custom megayachts, combining classic aesthetics and contemporary design. The hull and exterior styling is reminiscent of the Golden Age of Yachting, yet offering all the spacious comforts and amenities of a 21st century yacht, a real downwind flyer.

180´ Sailing Yacht Marie by Vitters - Image credit Tom Nitsch Image

180´ Sailing Yacht Marie by Vitters - Image credit Tom Nitsch Image

The 140´ sailing yacht Rebecca – the largest ketch to be built at Pendennis to date and without doubt one of the finest looking, modern sailing yachts in the world. Stylish, eye-catching with power and grace under sail with a light and elegant interior including a sole made from antique Heart Pine salvaged from a mill built in 1711.

The 115´ charter yacht Sojana – the holder of the Round Antigua Record and the Lord Nelson Trophy, the magnificent yacht is as luxurious cruising as it is speedy on the racecourse. Below decks, there is a wealth of dark mahogany paneling, with gold-plated fittings and lavish fabrics. The latest in hi-tech sails, push-button winches and sleek lines have made Sojana a highly successful racing yacht of unquestionable pedigree.

The 141´ charter yacht This Is Us – Twin Masted Schooner, a glorious creation with low freeboard and dramatic overhangs, designed to offer an exhilarating ride. Full of power and beauty, this head-turning yacht is a truly modern classic with a sumptuous interior. However, carbon spars and rigging deliver exceptional sailing performance. A contemporary yacht of immense character intended to deliver awe-inspiring Caribbean adventures.

141´ luxury charter yacht This Is Us - Under Sail

141´ luxury charter yacht This Is Us - Under Sail

The 147´ Timoneer superyacht – a Ketch offering complete comfort for ocean cruising. A classic profile with balanced overhangs and a sweet sheer. The beautifully designed award-winning interior boasts a wealth of hand-polished cherry wood, contributing to a relaxed and traditional atmosphere. An exceptional conception, offering passion, creativity and craftsmanship designed for remote seafaring adventures.

The 100´ charter yacht Virago – the winner of the 2011 St. Barths Bucket Regatta. Built by Nautor’s Swan, as a high performance racer cruiser, Virago competes at grand prix sailing events the world over. The undoubtedly luxurious design is complimented by sophisticated engineering to provide an extraordinary power to weight ratio. Given the fine fayre of warm trade winds with an accompanying seas state, the yacht is capable of speeds in excess of 20 knots. In the right conditions, probably the fastest yacht at the regatta.

100´ luxury charter yacht Virago

100´ luxury charter yacht Virago

The 152´ charter yacht Windrose – Schooner making headlines around the world after breaking the Transatlantic crossing record twice. With low freeboards, dashing sheer and long sweet overhangs, Windrose is a favourite among classic connoisseurs. However, her traditional appearance belies hidden technological advancements. This magnificent schooner captures the spirit of the early 20th century’s Golden Age of Sail, whilst sacrificing little in the way of speed, sail handling and luxury.

A significant number of highly prestigious yachts have strongly expressed their interest to take up the invitation to compete including; the 55m charter yacht Elena, the 47.42m charter yacht Hyperion, the 27.70m charter yacht Nefertiti, the 38m charter yacht P2 and the 33.60m sailing yacht Thalima.

The Superyacht Challenge Antigua will strive to deliver an exceedingly enjoyable occasion for all of the participants. Promoting fair sailing, good companionship and life-long memories.

In time-honoured tradition, the victor will simply receive a keg of rum and the kind-hearted admiration from an astonishing selection of yacht owners and their crew.

J Class Regatta 2012

January 17, 2012

The J Class Association is happy to announce outline plans for a series of amazing yacht regattas in England during 2012 – the Olympic Year. This will be the first time in history that more than four of these excellent yachts will compete together in a fleet.

J-Class-2012-Regatta

The outline plan has received a positive response from J Class owners and event planning is now proceeding. Many yachts in the fleet are now preparing to be on the start line for these 2012 events.

FALMOUTH

The first regatta will be based in Falmouth, Cornwall, hosted by the The Royal Cornwall Yacht Club. Races will be held in the bay and along the coastline.

Falmouth, Cornwall, UK

Falmouth, Cornwall, UK

SOLENT
The second regatta will be based in the Solent, hosted by the The Royal Southampton Yacht Club (RSYC). The Solent is the traditional home of J Class racing in the UK during the 1930s.

Solent, UK

Solent, UK

ROUND THE ISLAND
The last race, again hosted by RSYC will be held over the original course around the Isle of Wight, for the 1851 Hundred Guinea Cup Race, which is now known as the “America’s Cup”.

The Isle of Wight, UK

The Isle of Wight, UK

These J Class events will attract many thousands of spectators. There are numerous headlands and vantage points close to the race courses for viewing this spectacular fleet.

POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS

Nine is probably a dream too far, but five yachts sailing together would be magnificent.

An event of this magnitude could have a profound effect on yacht racing worldwide.

37m charter yacht SHAMROCK V – Sir Thomas Lipton’s last yacht to compete for the America’s Cup. 1930

37m luxury charter yacht SHAMROCK V

37m luxury charter yacht SHAMROCK V

39m sailing yacht VELSHEDA – Built by W.Stephenson to compete alongside Endeavour. 1933

39m sailing yacht VELSHEDA

39m sailing yacht VELSHEDA

130´ charter yacht ENDEAVOUR – T.O.M Sopwith’s first America’s Cup challenger. 1934

130´ luxury charter yacht Endeavour

130´ luxury charter yacht Endeavour

41.55m charter yacht RANGER – Replica of H. Vanderbildt’s 1936 America’s Cup defender. 2002

41.55m luxury charter yacht Ranger

41.55m luxury charter yacht Ranger

42m super yacht HANUMAN – Replica of T.O.M. Sopwith’s second challenger Endeavour II. 2009

Sailing yacht HANUMAN in Newport - Photo Credit George Bekris

Sailing yacht HANUMAN in Newport - Photo Credit George Bekris

43m luxury yacht LIONHEART – An original build of a 1936 Ranger design. 2010

Super yacht Lionheart

Super yacht Lionheart

40m sailing yacht RAINBOW – Replica of Rainbow built in 1934 to defend the America’s Cup. 2011

Sailing yacht RAINBOW

Sailing yacht RAINBOW

41.50 SVEA superyacht – An original build of a 1937 Swedish design by Tore Holm. 2011

Sailing yacht SVEA

Sailing yacht SVEA

47m super yacht ATLANTIS – An original build of a 1936 Frank Paine design. 2011

Sailing yacht ATLANTIS

Sailing yacht ATLANTIS

MOD 70 Gitana XV Yacht Successfully Launched

January 16, 2012

In the ocean racing environment, aside from the round the world years, January is traditionally a month dedicated to refits. This year however, the men of Gitana Team have upset the usual schedule. Indeed the winter refit for the MOD 70 Gitana XV yacht by the Edmond de Rothschild Group has only taken a matter of weeks, which was just enough time for the shore crew to give the latest trimaran yacht Gitana XV of the Gitana fleet a unique livery, developed by the graphic designer Jean-Baptiste Epron.

Mod 70 Gitana XV Successfully Launched Credit CDK Technologies

Mod 70 Gitana XV Successfully Launched Credit: CDK Technologies

Sébastien Josse and his crew will be putting in their first tacks of 2012 over the coming days, before making for the latitudes of Agadir, in Morocco, where the team’s winter training is scheduled to take place.

An innovative and daring livery

For a number of years, Jean-Baptiste Epron has successfully combined his passion for sailing and his business as a graphic designer. Responsible for the majority of the liveries on the Gitana Team’s yachts, such as Gitana 10, Gitana 11, the “Eighty”, the Extreme 40 Edmond de Rothschild Group, and many others, this adopted Breton has now created his 9th piece for the Rothschild family.

The launch of the Gitana XV yacht enabled onlookers to discover the latest decor and Jean-Baptiste explains what led him to the final design for Gitana XV: “In the various projects I put forward, I always try to provide innovative and cleverer versions. In the majority of cases, it’s the more classic propositions which are unanimously approved. To my very great delight, Ariane and Benjamin de Rothschild were attracted by this version which is very different from those which the Gitana fleet have sported up till now.”

“On the MOD 70 I had a technical constraint because, due to the way the materials behave in UV light, the hulls have to be predominantly white. This parameter had its positive points and it enabled me to create a livery which stands out from the previous editions. The graphics on the hulls are in fact a close-up of the compass which unites the five arrows which are emblematic of the Rothschild family. To give it volume, I outlined it in the different colours which make up the family’s coat of arms and the Gitana Team’s logo: blue, grey and finally yellow.”

Princess Yachts look forward to superyachts up to 70m

January 12, 2012

Great success has been reported by the prestigious UK based shipbuilder Princess Yachts, following the 2012 London Boat Show. Six 32 metre motor yachts have been sold to date and there is a second 40m superyacht currently under construction at the well known yards.

Princess 40M motor yacht by Princess Yachts - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess 40M motor yacht by Princess Yachts - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts


In addition, Princess Yachts is currently developing a new superyacht facility able to construct vessels up to 70 metres and the shipyard looks forward to go beyond 40m metres. Great interest in future projects of larger sized yachts has also been reported.

Princess 40M motor yacht by Princess Yachts - Saloon - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess 40M motor yacht by Princess Yachts - Saloon - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts

The new facility is planned to be operational by early 2013 and will create or secure over 1,000 jobs both directly and indirectly in the wider Plymouth economy.

Superyacht Princess 40M - Owner suite bathroom - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts

Superyacht Princess 40M - Owner suite bathroom - Photo courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess 40M

Princess 40m yacht brings a generous expanse of interior and exterior living spaces. Her three decks can accommodate twelve guests in privacy and great comfort. Crew of eight is accommodated in separate crew quarters for even more privacy. The Owner’s suite can be found on the main deck with the lower deck offering several configuration option.

Princess 32M superyacht Image credit Princess Yachts International

Princess 32M superyacht Image credit Princess Yachts International

Princess 32M

Princess 32M yacht boasts an elegant profile and exceptional sea-keeping abilities. The stylish and sophisticated motor yacht Princess 32M features the Owner’s stateroom on the main deck, benefiting from elevated views each side through large panoramic windows. The lower deck offers three or four en-suite configuration, changing the full beam VIP suite amidship to two double suites, depending on what the clients prefer.

Princess 32M superyacht - Master cabin

Princess 32M superyacht - Master cabin

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