Cowes Brief

Cowes Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

2011 Panerai British Classic Week: Tough Conditions on Day Two

July 20, 2011

The crews of the 71 classic yachts competing at Panerai British Classic Week 2011 were delighted when they awoke this morning to discover that yesterday’s strong winds had abated somewhat.  Race Officer Tony Lovell confirmed his intention to start today’s single race at noon and set up his course to the east of Cowes with a start line off Osborne Bay.  Although conditions had improved overnight the wind was still quite strong ranging from around 18-25 knots from the west-southwest. Throughout the day a steady stream of rain squalls swept down the Solent bringing stronger winds with them and drenching the sailors into the bargain.

Panerai British Classic Week 2011 Day 1 of racing, The Solent, UK - Lloyd Images ©

Panerai British Classic Week 2011 Day 1 of racing, The Solent, UK - Lloyd Images ©

Despite the rain it was clear that both the sailors and the boats were revelling in the conditions and the fleet made a fantastic sight criss-crossing the Solent.  The course featured a series of windward/leeward legs and one short reaching leg with a lovely long final beat to finish off Cowes.  Despite the enormous range in size of boats there were close tacking and gybing duels going on throughout the fleets and a number of very close finishes on the line.

Fortunately the strong winds brought only a couple of significant cases of gear failure. The first happened only a few moments after the start for Classes 1 and 2 when David Murrin’s 1957 Laurent Giles Sloop ‘Cetawayo’, tipped to be one of the top performers in this regatta, was forced to pull up with a broken lower starboard spreader.  Back ashore David confirmed that they hoped to have a new wooden spreader made and fitted overnight and that they had every intention of being on the race course again tomorrow, joking that it “helps relax everyone if you get the discard out of the way early in the regatta”.

The other casualty was Roddy Steel and Eric Newman’s delightful little ‘Stren’, a 1948 Spidsgatter 19½ Square Meter designed by Jac M Iversen, which broke a rudder fitting.  Thanks must go to the crew aboard Richard Matthew’s tender to 12m Crusader who kindly came to the rescue and towed them home to effect repairs.

Back ashore the crew of Corinthian International One Design ‘Marguerite’, owned by David Myatt, declared, “It was good racing.  It blew the cobwebs out although we wouldn’t have wanted much more breeze.”  They were very happy with their third place performance in Class 4 but felt they still have more to give joking, “We get better as the week goes on and the beer starts to take effect!”.  Class 4 was won by ‘Erida’, the 30 Square Meter owned by Bob Gatehouse and designed and built by Abeking & Rasmussen in 1937.  Second place went to ‘Cereste’ a 1938 Limited Design 10 Tonner designed by Robert Clark, built by the Sussex Yacht Works Shoreham and now owned by Jonathan & Scilla Dyke.

For Scotsman Jamie Matheson of the Sparkman & Stephens designed and Lallows built ‘Opposition’, formerly Ted Heath’s 1971 Admiral’s Cup winning ‘Morning Cloud’, the weather was “Just like home.”  They were extremely happy with their second place in Class 2 finishing one minute and three seconds behind Brian Smullen’s 1970 McGruer Ketch ‘Cuilaun’ and two minutes and thirty seven seconds ahead of third placed ‘Wings’ the 1937 Nicholson 12 Meter. 

Class 1 featured the battle of the 12 Meters with Richard Matthew’s 1985 Ian Howlett designed ‘Crusader’ and Richard Rankin’s 1985 Georgietti & Mygrini designed ‘Italia’ commencing battle with a match racing style start before going head to head all the way around the course.  On the line it was ‘Crusader’ who had gained both line honours and the overall victory with ‘Italia’ second.  In third place was Stephen Jones’s ‘Meteor’ a Spirit of Tradition yacht designed by Stephen himself and built in 2006 by Farrow & Chambers.

A wonderful example of how there are races within a race going on throughout the fleet are the three 22 Square Meters ‘Caritana’, ‘Vigilant’ and ‘Chadrak’.  All three boats are owned by Andrew Thornhill and crewed by a mix of family and friends, and its clear from the banter on the dock that there is plenty of friendly rivalry between them.  ‘Caritana’ won today’s battle with ‘Vigilant’ second and ‘Chadrak’ third.  Whilst none of these boats made the podium in Class 4 they none they nonetheless enjoyed a fabulous day’s racing and are keen to get back out for more tomorrow.

In Class 3 Michael and Beverly Briggs’ William Fife designed 1904 Clyde Linear 30 ‘Mikado’ was boat of the day beating ‘Mirella’, a 1963 Illingworth Bermudan Cutter owned by Yvon Nicholas from Cherbourg by three minutes and nine seconds on corrected time.  Third place went to Andy King’s Rasmussen 30 Square Meter ‘Gluckauf’ whose joke about the boats ‘submarine’ tendencies yesterday was clearly intended to hide their talent for heavy airs sailing.

After racing the competitors enjoyed an official opening party for the fabulous new Panerai Lounge.  Fitted out in the style of a classic yacht, the Panerai Lounge was a welcome post racing haven for the sailors who enjoyed a selection of fine wines and delicious canapés as the prizes for today’s racing were awarded.

Tuesday’s two races are scheduled with a first start at 10.30.  The forecast is for much lighter airs, which will appeal to boats like Richard Bond’s ‘Tomahawk’ who will be hoping to improve on today’s fifth place in Class 1.

Swan European Regatta 2011: All four Class winners decided on final race

July 18, 2011

The fifth and final day of the Swan European Regatta got underway again in bright sunshine. There was a simmer of tension detected on the dock as crews were preparing for their ultimate day of racing. A lack of wind early this morning meant it was touch and go but a full 11 knots West South Westerly kicked in right on cue to allow the first race to start on time.

Swan European Regatta 2011 - Class B sailing downwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor’s Swan - Swan Europeans 2011

Swan European Regatta 2011 - Class B sailing downwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor’s Swan - Swan Europeans 2011

All the courses sent the Swan’s West off the Squadron Line providing them with further Solent waters not yet sailed. By the second race the wind was up to gusts of 25 knots and in all Classes winners of the Swan European Regatta 2011 were down to the wire on the last race. The Solent has certainly lived up to expectations this week, throwing a mixture of weather conditions and wind speeds at the crews.

The Swan 45 Class, as expected, did not disappoint spectators on their first start of the day. Peter de Ridder’s Checkmate took their position on the line early as did Philippe Moortgat and Patrick van Heurck’s Samantaga. Unfortunately Samantaga pushed the line just that little bit too hard and was individually recalled.

Meanwhile, huge amounts of shouting between crews could be heard from the starting platform as close tacking was going on upwind, reflecting the pressure on today. Glynn Williams’ WISC demonstrated some superb helming as did Van Uden owned by Harm and Lionel Miller and Rob Reigwein’s Hawkeye who were all causing fans on the green to gasp. With all the initial manoeuvres for clear air and water performed, the fleet set off in their clear lanes up the first leg of the course to Salt Mead before taking them to East Lepe, West Lepe and back to the Squadron Line to finish. The first race was taken by Hawkeye, followed by Richard Cotter’s Nemo of Cowes and WISC leaving the final race as all to play for.

The second race saw a building breeze of 17-20 knots gusting 25 knots at the start. Wind on a strong tide resulted in choppy water to be negotiated. Approaching the line was done at speed but from a distance. WISC had a great start with her nose ahead of the rest, maintaining this extension by tacking on Hawkeye as she tacked straight off the line. But Hawkeye was on fire and finished with their second bullet of the day. WISC came in fourth in the final race of the Regatta but it was just enough to maintain their much deserved first place position overall.

On the downwind leg from Gurnard Ledge to South Bramble the fleet were still within 10 boat lengths of each other, all taking the direct route except Motion owned by Mr Von Oeveren who broke away from the fleet to get out of the tide. Checkmate was chasing WISC’s tail for the leading position downwind.

Class A, set to sail on the same course as the Swan 45 Class were also showing over excitement at the line. Three boats were individually recalled although there seemed to be some delay in returning to the line. Club Swan 42 Baraka GP sailed by the De Graaf Family timed their start to perfection which certainly gave them the advantage at the start, while defending winners Club Swan 42 Magical Mystery Tour sailed by the Leask Family was early, throwing the race wide open. Baraka GP won the first race on corrected time and Magical Mystery Tour managed to sail their way up into third position from their individual recall.

Swan European Regatta 2011 - Carte Blanche, Swan 36 and Antares, Swan 41 downwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor’s Swan

Swan European Regatta 2011 - Carte Blanche, Swan 36 and Antares, Swan 41 downwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor’s Swan

Race Two of the day for Class A was close for many as most of the fleet were nearly over having to duck back to the line in order to stay behind. Those who were on course side struggled to get back against the tide. Baraka GP put in a sterling performance achieving a third place in race two and securing second position overall at the end of the final day, just missing the pole position, which was taken by Magical Mystery Tour after a win in the final race of the Regatta.

Edward Leask owner of Magical Mystery Tour added, “We put ourselves under real pressure by a premature start in the first race and then not only had to win the next race but rely on boats behind us finishing in a theoretical order. Sometimes God is on your side!”

Class B upped the ante with their start today, a few shouts could be heard between the boats as Swan 391 Delnic owned by Benoit Rousselion and Mr Holm’s Swan 46 Taika fought hard to get their bows in front. Mr Segel’s Swan 40 Christina made the decision to tack early in a bid for clean air. Harald Baum’s Swan 48 Elan certainly left tacking to the last minute as shouts for water could be heard from the starting platform. Christina’s earlier decisions clearly paid off as they came in second while Elan scored a respectable fourth place for Race Seven of the Regatta.

The second start for Class B saw the majority of the fleet over the line so were individually recalled. Similarly to Class A, those who were over struggled back to the Squadron Line against the tide. Elan pulled it out the bag with a win for the final race of the Regatta. Harald Baum added, “The race was very close with two other boats, Christina and Sloop John T. We fought the whole week against them, it was great fun. And I think it was very good that Sloop John won overall, we won the race today and we did our utmost.” Sloop John T joint owned by Iain and Graham Tomson scored a second spot securing First Place position of the European Regatta.

Class C also piled the pressure on as Stephen James’ Swan 38 Jacobite pushed the line considerably achieving a well-timed start. Swan 43 sailing yacht Cisne joint owned by David Collins and Tony Thorpe also got caught up in the excitement of the start and were individually recalled. Once Class C had all started cleanly they set off to Gurnard Ledge, Quinnel, then Cowes Radio before finishing back at the Squadron Line. Despite Cisne’s return to the line they won the race with Alvine XV in second and Jacobite coming in third.

Class C had observed previous class’s mistakes and started without a second gun. Swan 38 Tangoroa owned by Christopher Vickery was first over the line gaining an advantage on the rest of the fleet. Alvine XV won the second race securing their position at the top of the leader board. Alastair Evans owner of Alvine XV said, “I’m over the moon, it’s been a brilliant regatta. One of the best I’ve done for a long time.” Cisne also had a fantastic second race coming in second taking second place overall in Class C.

This marks the end of the 15th edition of the Swan European Regatta which has provided an incredible week of race action which everyone has thoroughly enjoyed with Nautor’s Swan.

Daily Winners

Day 1

Classes:

A – The Leask Family, Magical Mystery Tour, CS 42
B – I and G Thomson, Sloop John T, Swan 40
C – Stephen James, Jacobite, Swan 38

45 – Philippe Moortgat / Patrick van Heurck, Samantaga

Day 2

Classes:

A – The de Graaf Family, Baraka GP, Club Swan 42
B – Harald Baum, Elan, Swan 48
C – Stephen James, Jacobite, Swan 38

45 – Peter de Ridder, Checkmate

Day 3

Classes:

A – de Graaf Family, Baraka GP, Club Swan 42
B – Harald Baum, Elan, Swan 48
C – David Collins and Tony Thorpe, Cisne, Swan 43

45 – Harm Tiddens, Van Uden

Day 4

Classes:

A – The Leask Family, Magical Mystery Tour, CS 42
B – A Lower, Selene, Swan 44
C – Alistair Evans, Alvine XV, Swan 37

Swan 45 – Peter de Ridder, Checkmate

Day 5

Classes:

A – The Leask Family, Magical Mystery Tour, CS 42
B – Harald Baum, Elan, Swan 48
C – Alistair Evans, Alvine XV, Swan 37

Swan 45 – Rob and Martine Reigwein, Hawkeye

Final Results

Class A

1st GBR Magical Mystery Tour-Club Swan 42, The Leask Family
2nd NED Baraka GP- Club Swan 42, The De Graff family
3rd NED Silveren Swaen- Swan 53, Piet Hein Bakker

Class B

1st GBR Sloop John T- Swan 40, Iain and Graham Thomson
2nd GER Elan- Swan 48, Harald Baum
3rd GBR Selene- Swan 44, Adrian Lower

 Class C

1st GBR Alvine XV- Swan 37, Alistair Evans
2nd NED Cisne- 43, David Collins and Tony Thorpe
3rd GBR Jacobite- Swan 38, Stephen James

Swan 45

1st GBR WISC, Glynn Williams
2nd NED Checkmate, Peter de Ridder
3rd BEL Samantaga, Philippe Moortgat and Patrick van Heurck

ClubSwan Award: Best Dressed Crew

Sigrid, Swan 56

Lewmar Trophy: Best Turned out Swan

Swan Galiana, Swan 55, Patrick Green and Nick Orme

Camper and Nicholson Trophy: Oldest Swan

Jem and George Tetley, Carte Blanche, Swan 38

Pantaenius Award- Farthest Travelled Swan

Jamshyd Godrej, Raika, Swan 53

 Highland Fling Trophy – Owner Driver

Alistair Evans, Alvine XV-Swan 37

Source Trophy – Best Team

Silvern Swaen- Swan 53, Piet Hein Bakker
Elan- Swan 48, Harald Baum
Jacobite, Swan 38, Stephen James
WISC- Swan 45, Glynn Williams
Gaastra Youngest Crew Award
Henry Segel, Christina Swan 40

Tidetech shows complex tidal influences for 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

July 13, 2011

A recently-developed, high-resolution tidal model for the Solent and UK south coast has revealed the complexity of tidal streams and currents in this competitive racing area. The model details an area including Southampton Water, the entire Solent, the southern sectors of the Isle of Wight and the entrance to Chichester Harbour.

Tidetech shows complex tidal influences for 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

Tidetech shows complex tidal influences for 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

Tidal data of this resolution has previously been the domain of government agencies, oil companies and specialist environmental modelling agencies with access to super computers. Now able to be managed on powerful laptops, the complex calculations required to create the models have been translated into easy-to-view visual tools available to competitive sailors and maritime users.

The company at the forefront of this data modelling is Tidetech, an oceanographic data specialist comprising the world’s foremost tidal surge modelling scientists and navigation experts. Of significant note, Tidetech has been recruited to supply the 34th America’s Cup with its San Francisco Bay model.

Lead scientists Dr Roger Proctor and Dr Roger Flather have between them over 60 years of research experience with the Proudman Oceanography Centre (now the National Oceanography Centre), the world’s leading centre for tidal prediction. Dr Proctor also provided elite sailing support to the British Olympic Sailing Team at five consecutive Games between 1988 and 2008.

Tidetech director Penny Haire said races in the Solent were more often influenced tactically by tides than by wind.

“This new information is so detailed that it will show tacticians how and why one particular side of a course is favoured over another and help them to position their bow in front at the next mark,” Ms Haire said.

“The south coast model clarifies various aspects of Solent currents that many competitors have found tricky in the past… for example, the model clearly shows the area of reduced tide in the lee of the Bramble Bank along with the complexities of the Hill Head region.

“The model shows lots of areas that could well influence competitors’ tactics… it’s quite revealing, as there are areas of localised tidal acceleration that occur within very short distances.

“Over Sturbridge Shoal and at Lepe, for example, there’s a visible half-knot variation within 100m distance and that could make a considerable difference to yachts within this range.”

The detailed information is available in GRIB format but also in an online viewer that allows any subscriber to see the relevant data on a computer, iPad or smart phone and make their own custom tidal atlas which can be downloaded as a PDF and printed for taking afloat.

Tidetech has provided data to vessels in many of the world’s biggest races and regattas including the Rolex Sydney to Hobart, San Francisco Big Boat Series, Melges 32 Worlds and many more.

The south coast model is also being expanded to cover the Dorset coastline in time for the Fastnet race.

Excitement builds ahead of the 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

July 12, 2011

With just over a week to go, excitement is building in advance of the 2011 edition of the Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes. This year’s regatta runs from the 17th – 23rd of July and forms a part of the 2011 Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge Series – which also includes some of the world’s leading classic yacht regattas, such as the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and the Régates Royales in Cannes. With entries of all sizes still coming in thick and fast, this year’s Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes looks set to see another bumper turnout of classic yachts to race in and around the waters off the Isle of Wight.

Excitement builds ahead of the 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

Excitement builds ahead of the 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes

This year’s entry list is made up of an encouraging mixture of large and small boats – some a familiar sight at this regatta, others gracing the event with their presence for the first time. One such newcomer is the 1894 G.L. Watson designed 36’ Gaff Cutter ‘Peggy Bawn’, which will arrive in Cowes fresh from competing at classic regattas in Brittany. In recent years the subject of a painstaking two-year restoration, ‘Peggy Bawn’ was originally commissioned by Belfast flax miller Alfred Lepper and built by his local yacht builder John Hilditch of Carrickfergus, County Antrim. Under subsequent owners she became a star performer in the Dublin Bay racing fleet over several decades.

One yacht which should feel at home in the Solent is the 1974 Sparkman & Stephens 41’ Bermudan Sloop ‘Golden Fleece of Mersea’. Built originally in South Africa, she was brought to Cowes the following year to compete in the 1975 Admiral’s Cup. After being found in 1999 by her current owner in some disrepair, she was sailed to the UK where she underwent a five-year restoration at the Elephant Boatyard in Southampton.

Another beautiful classic scheduled to compete at this year’s regatta is the 1929 International 30 Square Metre Class sloop ‘Gluckauf’. Designed by Henry Rasmussen and built at the German Abeking & Rasmussen yard, at 38’ overall length and with a beam of 6’ 5”, she is regarded as one of the less extreme 30 Square Metre designs, but nevertheless over the years she picked up the nickname ‘Flying Toothpick’ at local regattas.

Despite the legendary Gipsy Moth IV having suffered significant rig damage whilst participating in the recent J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, the indomitable yacht will be repaired in time to compete at this year’s regatta.

Following on from the luxurious and highly popular hospitality facilities provided last year by title sponsor Panerai, competitors at the 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes will be able to take advantage of a brand new Panerai Lounge. Designed to reflect the overall style and comfort of a classic yacht interior, the 300 square metre wooden structure boasts its own multilingual classic yachting book collection, a large touch screen TV showing up to date results and video from the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge and the Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes, as well as a display of watches from the Panerai collection. The new Panerai Lounge will form the centrepiece of the regatta’s marina based social activities, with competitors able to enjoy a pre race breakfast each morning and post race cocktails each evening.

For the first time the event will be open to the public with the addition of the Panerai Event Village in Cowes Yacht Haven. Open from 3pm Monday-Friday there will be stalls from companies including world renowned photographer Beken of Cowes, Minghella’s Ice Cream, Slam Clothing, Classic Boat magazine, DeLonghi coffee and the Wight Vodka bar by Pusser’s Rum. Entry to the event village is free and there will be live music on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings from 5pm.

On Thursday morning more than 60 classic cars from the Historic Rally Endurance Organisation (HERO) will be assembled in the Yacht Haven to begin their summer reliability trial and the public is invited to come and view this rare spectacle. Racing at the 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes begins on Sunday 17 July and runs through to Friday 22 July. On the morning of Saturday 23 July all participating yachts in the regatta are cordially invited to take place in a Parade of Sail.

Swan European Regatta 2011: Swan Yachts Sparkle on the Solent

July 12, 2011

Day 1 of the Swan European Regatta dawned with very little wind and a glassy calm Solent but glorious sunshine which resulted in a postponement for the fleet.  Shortly after midday, the sea breeze started to build and by 2pm the Race Committee from the Royal Yacht Squadron were able to start the first race of the event in a light 5 to 8 knot breeze.

Swan Sailing yacht Magical Mystery Tour, winners of Class A racing upwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

Swan Sailing yacht Magical Mystery Tour, winners of Class A racing upwind © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

With an 11 mile course taking the Swan 45 Class and Class A from the Squadron Line to West Lepe, East Lepe and finally Salt Mead before heading back down the Solent under spinnaker to the Squadron Line to finish, the pressure was on from the start.  The Swan 45 fleet were away cleanly on the first start but in Class A, in their first race the brand new Swan 53, Raika, owned by Jamshyd Godrej from India pushed the line a little too hard and found themselves having to return to re-start.  Magical Mystery Tour, Club Swan 42 raced by the Leask Family also turned back to cross the line but then quickly found clear wind and began to push the high performance Swan hard – they were quickly amongst the front runners and upwind crossed tacks back and forth with Colin Buffin’s Swan 62, Uxorious.  The light airs favoured Magical Mystery Tour heavily and once they turned downwind she extended her lead, finishing almost 3 minutes ahead of Uxorious on the water and winning by a little over 2 minutes on corrected time from their sister ship, Baraka GP, raced by the de Graaf Family.

Edward Leask, owner of Magical Mystery Tour, commented, “It was a great day, fantastic weather.  The race committee were really sensible to delay the start by 3 to 4 hours and then we had a nice 10 knot breeze.  We went for the pin end on starboard.  We thought we had got it absolutely spot on and then we heard a 2nd gun go so as we popped out in front by quite a long way, we presumed it had to be us over.  We went back to start again.  Subsequently we found out it was another boat over a long way out.  So we went back and we didn’t need to.  Despite that by the time we got to the first mark we had got back into the lead and we were really delighted to get both line honours and, I now discover, first on corrected time as well.  Great day and fantastic team on board.”

Sailing yacht Samantaga, Swan 45 takes first place off the Royal Yacht Squadron Line © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

Sailing yacht Samantaga, Swan 45 takes first place off the Royal Yacht Squadron Line © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

Samantaga, the Swan 45 jointly owned by Philippe Moortgat and Patrick van Heurck lead from the outset to take the gun to start the regatta in style.  Glynn Williams, racing his Swan 45 WISC, drew upon his crew’s significant local knowledge to fight through to second place at the first mark which he held until the finish line.  Third place was clinched by Peter de Ridder sailing with his family onboard the Swan 45, Checkmate.

Philippe Moortgat,co-owner of Swan 45, Samantaga commented, “It was a nice day.  The current in Cowes is also something quite new for us so we have to look at this a lot but it was good.  The fleet was fast.  We had a good start and were very comfortable have a good start. Happy today, very happy.  It’s a good way to begin.  It’s a long week so wait and see.”

Class B sailed a slightly shorter, 9.5 mile course around the Western Solent.  The Scottish team onboard Sloop John T, Swan 40 took line honours and then won on corrected time by 20 seconds from David Segel’s Swan 40, Christina. Ray Mitchell’s Swan 411, Accomplice round out the podium for Class B.

Sigrid, Swan 56 yacht drops her spinnaker © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

Sigrid, Swan 56 yacht drops her spinnaker © Kurt Arrigo & Nautor's Swan

Class C’s 8 mile long course took them from the Squadron Line up to Gurnard Ledge, to North East Gurnard, to Cowes Radio and then back for a finish in a dying sea breeze off the Squadron Line.  Jacobite, Swan 38 raced by Stephen James continued her domination of handicap racing in the Solent to win by 22 seconds on corrected time from the Swan 43, Cisne raced by Tony Thorpe.  Third place went to the stunning Cecille, Swan 36.

Nautor’s Swan Hoists Flags for the 15th Swan European Regatta

July 08, 2011

Nautor’s Swan is hoisting flags at Cowes, Isle of Wight, marks the final lead up to the 2011 Swan European Regatta, running 9 – 15 July.  2011 marks the 15th edition for one of Swan’s flagship events.  Hosted by the globally renowned Royal Yacht Squadron, the regatta has attracted a number of international entries from 8 different nations.

46 Swan sailing yachts will participate across four Classes; A, B, C and the Swan 45 Class.  Racing will all be located in the Solent which has a reputation for its testing tidal conditions.  The Royal Yacht Squadron will be hosting this year’s Swan European Regatta in conjunction with Nautor’s Swan.  Founded back in 1851 and steeped in sailing history, the Squadron is known as one of the world’s most famous Yacht Clubs, inside the stunning setting of Cowes Castle.

Swan 53, Silveren Swaen, is on her way to Cowes this week with one aim of taking top position after finishing 2nd at their last Swan European Regatta and to then take time after the regatta to enjoy some cruising comforts.

Swan Sailing yacht Silveren Swaen Racing in Solent Style Strong Winds © Kurt Arrigo 09

Swan Sailing yacht Silveren Swaen Racing in Solent Style Strong Winds © Kurt Arrigo 09

Mr Bakker, Owner, Silveren Swaen, ‘we are aiming to continue our winning streak from the Rolex Swan Cup last year at Porto Cervo into 2011 on UK waters with Silveren Swaen.  Having taken 2nd place at the 2009 Swan European Regatta previously, a first place this year is definitely a priority for myself and the team. 

We have updated our sail inventory in preparation and made a few modifications to the Swan 53 in order to maximise her performance at Cowes.  I have chosen to race with the same core crew as they really understand the Swan characteristics under race conditions.  I am also looking forward to some family cruising around the UK with after the regatta to enjoy time on board Silveren Swaen away from the race circuit.’

Enrico Chieffi, Managing Director of Nautor’s Swan commented, ‘It will be a great pleasure to see so many familiar faces in the Swan Family during the 15th edition of the Swan European Regatta.  We are all anxious to see which Swan yachts will be inducted in this regatta’s Hall of Fame at the end of a week’s Solent racing. 

It is always a privilege at Cowes to see older models from past SwanLines so beautifully restored and still in top pedigree condition racing against the likes of the newer modern designs all with the same synonymous style of Nautor’s Swan.’

The first day of Swan European Regatta racing commences on Monday, July 11 with the final prize giving on Friday, July 15.  With 30 prizes to win, competition will be on the cards to secure beautifully crafted silverware.

Swan European Regatta 2011: Nautor’s Swan and PANTAENIUS Join Forces

July 07, 2011

Nautor’s Swan, manufacturer of the ultimate ocean-going, performance, luxury sailing yachts of unrivalled build, is pleased to announce an extension to their long term partnership with PANTAENIUS, the leading yacht insurance specialist.  PANTAENIUS will become the title sponsors of the Owners Dinner during the Swan European Regatta 2011.

Swan European Regatta Fleet do battle in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes © Kurt Arrigo 09

Swan European Regatta Fleet do battle in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes © Kurt Arrigo 09

The Swan European Regatta, one of Nautor’s Swan’s flag ship events will take place from 9 – 15 July 2011 hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes.  With entries from 46 Swans across 8 nations ranging in size from the Swan 36 through to the Swan 65, competitive racing is guaranteed for all.  In addition the 8 entries from the Swan 45 Class will be competing for the Swan 45 European Champion title.

The social programme for the week is extensive with an Opening Reception planned for Sunday 10 July at the Royal Yacht Squadron, followed by the PANTAENIUS Owners Dinner at the Royal Yacht Squadron on Tuesday 12 July.  The ClubSwan Crew Party will be held at the Cowes Yacht Haven with a red, white and blue theme to match the ClubSwan burgee colours on Wednesday 13 July.  The Final Prize Giving will be held on Friday 15 July at the Royal Yacht Squadron.

Enrico Chieffi, Managing Director of Nautor’s Swan commented, ‘Over the last ten years we have enjoyed a wonderful partnership with PANTAENIUS with many aligned objectives.  Extending this relationship away from the technical side of our events where we have an obvious fit, into the social sphere enables us to reinforce our association, and connect with our Swan Owners in a relaxed environment’.

Martin Baum, Managing Director of PANTAENIUS added, ‘Our family Swan has been the foundation of my sailing life since I can remember and I am still deeply fascinated with the yachts and the spirit of the Swan family. It is the obvious choice for PANTAENIUS to be part of this family. I have known the owners of these yachts for many years and it is an honor to host this year’s owners’ event’.

Sailing yacht Ranger wins J Class Regatta Newport

June 29, 2011

The J Class Newport Regatta finished on Sunday 19th June with a thrilling final race; a wonderful tactical exhibition that showcased the very best of the J Class yachts superyachts and the very best of sailing. Thousands of enthralled spectators were at Fort Adams, Castle Hill, and the headlands around Newport Bay over five days, to watch as sailing yacht Ranger won four races to S/Y Velsheda’s one race.

Sailing yacht Ranger wins J Class Regatta Newport - Ranger on Day 1. Photo©2011 Daniel Forster go4image.com

Sailing yacht Ranger wins J Class Regatta Newport - Ranger on Day 1. Photo©2011 Daniel Forster go4image.com

However the results do not reflect the closeness of many of the races. For example, Yacht Ranger won the first race by just one second on corrected time based on the new J Class Association handicap system.

Sailing yacht Ranger & Velsheda - Credit J Class Regatta Newport

Sailing yacht Ranger & Velsheda - Credit J Class Regatta Newport

The regatta was superb, with excellent facilities and charming Newport was a perfect venue for this event with such a rich maritime history and the location of the first America’s Cup event in Js. The welcome from locals was overwhelming and many Newport sailors turned out to help manage and assist. It is hoped that the fleet will return to Newport for further regattas in 2014.

The Newport Regatta was the first showcase of the JCA handicap system, created by the Wolfson Unit at Southampton University. This new system is based on VPP calculations and was validated from towing tank results achieved from the 1930s prepared for Harold S Vanderbilt, who went on to commission the 1937 “RANGER”. Sparkman and Stephens USA office made this comprehensive document available to the JCA and the information provided the vital cross-check required for the Wolfson Unit to complete the figures for accurate handicapping of the Js in the interests of fair racing and good sportsmanship on the race course.

Sailing yacht Ranger leading on Day 1, winning by 1 minute 19 seconds elapsed time, but by just 1 second on corrected time.

Sailing yacht Ranger leading on Day 1, winning by 1 minute 19 seconds elapsed time, but by just 1 second on corrected time.

J Class Sailing yacht Velsheda comes second in the 2011 J Class Regatta Newport- Credit J Class Yachts

J Class Sailing yacht Velsheda comes second in the 2011 J Class Regatta Newport- Credit J Class Yachts

Ratings are issued for three wind bands, 0-9 Knots, 10-14 Knots, plus14 Knots above, and two types of courses, Circular Random and Windward Leeward. This set of ratings offers the fairest measure of boat on boat performance.

Corum Watches presented a wonderful perpetual trophy to Ranger, the overall winner, who also won a unique timepiece – a Corum Tide Watch.

The next big J Class event is in Falmouth in June 2012 followed by The Solent in July 2012, finishing with the ‘Hundred Guinea Cup’ race around the Isle of Wight on the original America’s cup course.

J Class enthusiasts and fans of these iconic racing yachts can also look forward to the prospect of a re-run of the 1934 America’s Cup races between the original yacht ENDEAVOUR and the new replica sailing yacht RAINBOW when she is launched.

Panerai British Classic Week and HERO combine forces

June 27, 2011

Sixty classic yachts and sixty classic cars will come together in Cowes on the Isle of Wight in July during Panerai British Classic Week when Officine Panerai, the British Classic Yacht Club and The Historic Endurance Rallying Organisation (HERO) will host an event for classic yacht and car enthusiasts.

HERO Summer Classic Reliability Trial & Tour

HERO Summer Classic Reliability Trial & Tour

The week-long sailing regatta, (16th-23rd July), whose participants include some of the world’s finest vintage and classic yachts will also be the venue of this year’s HERO Summer Classic Reliability Trial & Tour taking place on Thursday 21st July.

For the second year the regatta forms part of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge Series, the international regatta circuit which includes some of the world’s leading classic yacht regattas, such as the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and the Régates Royales in Cannes. Between April and September over five-thousand people, among them yacht owners, professional sailors and sailing enthusiasts will come together at the ten events in the series’ calendar.

During Panerai British Classic Week two members of the Naval Service will participate in the HERO Summer Classic and Reliability Trial and Tour and the sailing events in support of members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines serving on operations worldwide and will help raise money for the Royal Navy & Royal Marines charity, who support serving and former naval personnel to make their lives that much better

They will drive a Land Rover in the event and on the regatta’s final day of sailing they will sail on-board one of the competing yachts. In addition to the event’s organisers the participants in both events will be invited to make donations to the charity.

The reliability trial will begin at 9.30am on July 21st with a car leaving Cowes Yacht Haven every minute until 10.30am. Each car will take part in a manoeuvrability test before continuing reliability trial around the Isle of Wight with cars returning to the yacht haven throughout the day. The classic cars, including more than a dozen teams from all over Europe will leave the Island that evening to continue the trial, which will conclude on Saturday 23rd July with a black-tie presentation awards dinner in the Goodwood area.

Members of the public are invited to the Panerai event village in Cowes Yacht Haven to observe this rare spectacle and soak up the event’s atmosphere. Among the sixty cars competing is a DB6 Aston Martin owned by Sir Paul McCartney and a 1937 Jaguar SS100. Harbour-side the public will be able to see the iconic yacht Gipsy Moth IV on which Sir Francis Chichester sailed single-handed around the world in 1966-7 as well as Mikado, the 42ft Fife & Sons yacht built in 1904. People wishing to stay to see the yachts return to the harbour at the end of the day will be able, to enjoy live musical entertainment and food and drink from local artisan producers in the Panerai event village open between 3pm-8pm throughout the regatta and until 11pm Wednesday- Friday.

Patrick Burke and Tomas de Vargas Machuca, Directors of HERO, comment: “HERO is delighted to be invited to host the Summer Classic Reliability Trial and Tour at the Panerai British Classic Week. It is the first time that a classic car and classic yacht event have come together to create a hugely exciting and visual event. HERO is going from strength to strength and collaborations like this really show what a positive direction the organisation is moving. HERO’s aim is to help focus up and coming young talent to show that endurance rallying is an extremely thrilling sport.”

J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race 2011 Wrap up report

June 27, 2011

THRILLS AND SPILLS AT RECORD ENTRY RACE AS WEATHER DOMINATES

After a day dominated by the weather which threw everything it had to offer at the record-breaking fleet that competed in Saturday’s 80th Anniversary J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, the last of the 1900+ yachts home, Pendragon of Dartmouth, a Jeanneau Sun Fizz 40, made it across the finish line a mere three seconds before the line closed officially at 2200hrs, bagging themselves the ‘Tenacity Trophy’ at today’s Prizegiving at the Island Sailing Club.

The Gold Roman Bowl went to the delighted crew of Sundowner, entered by Jo Hutchinson (left) and Nick Rogers (far right), flanked by Roger Thompson, J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Ben Ainslie at today’s Prizegivi

The Gold Roman Bowl went to the delighted crew of Sundowner, entered by Jo Hutchinson (left) and Nick Rogers (far right), flanked by Roger Thompson, J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Ben Ainslie at today’s Prizegivi

Some 16,000 sailors faced wind speeds of up to 28 knots and there were huge swells to contend with off the Needles and at St. Catherine’s as the record-breaking fleet of 1,900 yachts undertook this most famous 50 nautical mile westabout Island circumnavigation on Saturday. A number of incidents were reported to the Coastguard, including ‘Man Overboard’ reports and capsizes as well as dismastings. There was a lot of sail damage across the fleet that ranged from high tech racers through to many smaller boats competing. However, a spokesman for the Race Management team at the Island Sailing Club, stressed that some of these incident reports were not attributable to the Race and were involving spectator boats rather than competitors.

Dave Atkinson, Assistant Principal Race Officer of the day said, “It was a successful race for the Island Sailing Club and we have received many compliments on running a great but challenging event. We’re looking forward to welcoming competitors in 2012 for another record-breaking year.”

Thousands of weary but generally happy sailors returned to Cowes and the marinas along the South Coast of England from mid afternoon yesterday, all feeling justifiably proud of their immense achievement in getting round the Island safely in tough conditions for even the most experienced and hardened sailor.

Nick Rogers, who usually sails a 470 with partner Chris Grube, helmed the Contessa 26 Sundowner to victory at the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race.

Line Honours went to French skipper Lionel Lemonchois and his 50ft multihull Prince de Bretagne who were first to cross the finish line in 3hrs 49m and 58s.

The final number of boats to cross the finish line in Cowes was 1,302 and there were 438 retirements and 16 DSQ (disqualified) and/or OCS (on course side).

The Race has become progressively more high profile as enhanced technology and communications has helped spread the scale and excitement of the Race farther and more widely around the globe. On Race Day, the total number of page impressions on the Race website amounted to 393,000 which is 100,000 up on 2010’s site visitors. The Race Viewer, allowing online spectators to track boats of their choice, was downloaded by over 32,000 people. The interactive Race Progress Blog produced by the Media Centre and Race Control attracted 17,762 visitors over the course of twelve hours with appreciative comments coming in from as far away as Australia, the Philippines, Mexico and the US.

The Island Sailing Club, the Title Sponsor J.P. Morgan Asset Management, and the Race Partners Britannia Events, Haven Knox-Johnston, Henri Lloyd, Nautica Watches, Old Pulteney Whisky, Raymarine, Red Funnel, Small Luxury Hotels of the World & Volvo Car UK, look forward to welcoming everyone to next year’s Race taking place on Saturday 30th June.

Race Facts & Stats

About the Race

Every year in June, over 1,800 boats and 16,000 sailors come from all over the UK and mainland Europe and from as far away as the USA and Australia to converge on Cowes, Isle of Wight, for a one day yacht racing spectacular. They are there to compete in the famous J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, organised by the Island Sailing Club, and to follow its notorious 50 nautical mile course around the Island.

From a Race that had its first outing in 1931 with 25 yachts entered, this yachting extravaganza can rightfully claim its 21st century place as the 4th largest participation sporting event in the UK.

Whatever the age, gender or level of ability, amateurs and professionals, first timers and old timers, this Race means something to everyone who enters it.

Today, the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race is a festival of sailing that is as keenly followed ashore as it is afloat.

Race Facts & Stats

•            The Round the Island Race was first established in 1931
•            2011 Race marks the 80th year of this iconic race being held
•            This year’s Race takes place on Saturday 25th June with the first class start at 0600
•            The Race starts and finishes in Cowes, Isle of Wight, the centre of British yachting
•            The current monohull race record was set by Mike Slade (ICAP  Leopard) in 2008 at  3.53.05
•            The multihull race record still stands at Francis Joyon’s 2001 time of 3.08.29.
•            The Island Sailing Club is grateful for the continued support of the Race Title Sponsor,  J.P. Morgan Asset Management and the Race Partners
•            The 2011 Event is J.P. Morgan Asset Management’s 7th year as title sponsor and they  retain title sponsorship up to and including 2012
•            Race Partners in 2011 & 2012: Britannia Events, Haven Knox-Johnston, Henri Lloyd,  Nautica Watches, Old Pulteney Whisky, Raymarine, Red Funnel, Small Luxury Hotels of the World & Volvo Car UK
•            This is an all-encompassing event that caters for and embraces first timers, families, amateurs and professionals competing at the highest level
•            The event strapline is ‘Britain’s Favourite Yacht Race’
•            The J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race is the 4th largest participation sporting event in the UK after the London Marathon and the Great North and South Runs, with around 16,000 sailors taking part over the course of one day
•            2010’s Race had 1,754 entries and 1,607 finished the Race. This is the highest-ever recorded number of finishers in the history of the Race. There were 47  retirements and 16 disqualifications/OCS (On Course Side of the starting line)
•            The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is the Official Race Charity for 2011 and 2012.

« Newer Yacht News  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11   Older Yacht News »