United Kingdom

William Fife

For seasoned yachties and newbies alike, attending a sailing regatta is one of the true highlights of the yachting calendar. Here, we present everything you need to know about the top regattas all around the world, with some hints and tips from industry experts on how to make the most of every minute.&nbsp;Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup (3-9 September 2023)Returning for its 33rd edition in 2023, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/179" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup - 2023">Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup</a> is a racing-orientated event, with the very best of the racing community found on board – from young sailors keen to bank experience on these racing machines to Olympic medalists and world champions.From the historical J Class to the newest high-performance yachts, since its first inception in 1980, the industry’s most talented sailors have gathered together amidst the rocky scenery and turquoise waters of Costa Smeralda to compete at the highest levels, with a record 50-strong fleet participating last year.There will be a key difference in this year’s edition, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">YCCS</a> Sports Director Edoardo Recchi highlights: “For the first time ever, we will also have a multihull division. We are very excited about having a new kind of racer at the<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/179" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup - 2023">&nbsp;Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a> has always paid attention to the evolution of the sail racing world and this opening up to multihulls proves it.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/47186/image/large-7bda43b55596ed4eaf29bbf627b70726.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/47186">Monaco Classic Week (13-16 September 2023)La Belle Classe biennial event hosted by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club de Monaco (Company)">Monaco Yacht Club</a> is a gathering that celebrates both sailing and motor yachts from 12-foot to 80-metres. The event echoes the first motorboat meetings in 1904, this event is the only one to bring together the most beautiful traditional sailing boats, with vintage motor-yachts and old motorboats, to which a fleet of 12′ Dinghies has been added for four the last editions.In every edition of the event, classic yachts such as Mariella, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2103" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Puritan38.4m (125'12&quot;)Electric Boat1931">Puritan</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11294" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orianda 25.9m (84'12&quot;)J. Ring Andersen Skibsvaerft1937">Orianda</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2093" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Invader49.3m (161'9&quot;)Lawley1905">Invader</a>&nbsp;parry in front of Monaco Marina, while the smaller motor boat classes shoot through the waves. The event is a true celebration of all yachts classic and is a great opportunity to see a spectrum of beautifully restored boats.&nbsp;Les Régates Royales Cannes (24-30 September 2023)Founded in the mid-1800s, the yachting heritage of Cannes is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean and every September the tiny seaside town plays host to a spectacle of sailing yachts of all classes and ages.&nbsp;A week of regattas off the Lerins Islands for a fleet divided into eight categories according to the size, age and rigging of the yachts. An exceptional gathering as the largest and most famous yachts of the last century and before come to compete such as the majestic <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Elena of London55.0m (180'5&quot;)Factoria Naval Marin2009">Elena of London</a>, 55-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Nathanaël Herreshoff</a> design built in 2009, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cambria41.15m (135'0&quot;)William Fife & Sons1928">Cambria</a>, 41-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1109" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife & Sons (Company)">William Fife</a> design built in 1928, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2343" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunshine36.85m (120'11&quot;)Myanmar Shipyards2003">Sunshine</a> 36.85-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">William Fife</a> design built in 2003, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2101" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aschanti IV of Vegesack34.8m (114'2&quot;)Burmester1954">Aschanti IV of Vegesack</a> 34.67-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1232" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Henry Gruber (Company)">Henry Gruber</a> design built in 1954, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moonbeam of Fife III30.94m (101'6&quot;)William Fife & Sons1903">Moonbeam of Fife III</a> 30.94-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1109" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife & Sons (Company)">William Fife</a> design built in 1903 and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2342" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moonbeam IV32.1m (105'4&quot;)William Fife & Sons1920">Moonbeam IV</a>, 32.1-metre, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1109" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife & Sons (Company)">William Fife</a> design built in 1914. The event should be on the list for any sailing enthusiast and the town of Cannes is a wonderful base for this historic regatta.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283380/image/large-e434ea0edef7ecf9fc716834cdfdbfae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283380">Les Voiles de St Tropez (1-7 October 2023) Drawing the Mediterranean superyacht racing season to a suitably fabulous conclusion is the enduringly-popular and prestigious Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, representing one of the largest gatherings of Maxi yachts in the world.The event is a yacht-spotter’s paradise, as Pierre Roison, President of the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, organizer of the event, highlights: “Every year, there are new boats to discover or to rediscover at Les Voiles. Last year saw the return of the extraordinary 1902 three-masted yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2266" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenandoah of Sark55.08m (180'9&quot;)Townsend & Downey1902">Shenandoah of Sark</a>, which is 55.08-metres long and belonged to Baron Bich, who used it as his flagship to attend the regattas when he was competing in America’s Cup.”He continues: “Saint-Tropez is the only place in France where you can see the futuristic Wally yachts in action. Another example, we were privileged to see the cutting-edge maxi Flying Nikka, a 19-metre articulated foiler built by an Italian team and designed to exceed 40 knots at top speed.”Superyacht Challenge Antigua (March 2024) Serving as a welcome kick-off to the regatta season each year is the Superyacht Challenge Antigua. Held annually in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard, the race begins and ends just off English Harbour and is made up of daily pursuit races, as well as an optional race around the island.Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, those competing in the Superyacht Challenge Antigua are divided into three classes (buccaneers, corsairs and privateers) and are awarded Caribbean barrels of rum for their successes. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219539/image/large-eda4015f563d6bef20bdd258c92d9401.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219539">The Superyacht Challenge Antigua is the perfect event for racing newbies, as Co-founder Paul Deeth explains: “You will find great racing in a relaxed and friendly setting which is ideal for owners experiencing superyacht racing for the first time. We offer a superyacht ‘classic’ class, which means yachts can race with their standard sails and do not need a lot of extra crew, which helps to keep the pressure off.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/199" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2024">St Barths Bucket Regatta</a>&nbsp;(March 2024)&nbsp;Distinctive for its sheer number of superyacht entries, the regatta calendar would not be complete without mention of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/199" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2024">St Barths Bucket</a>, which sees as many as 35 superyachts of all shapes and sizes descending on the Caribbean island to enjoy nail-biting racing in a beautifully picturesque setting.The Bucket is also known for its top-notch social programme, with six of the 31 entries this year being social ones, in which yacht owners and guests can make the most of the recreational aspects of the Bucket without racing – whether that is the Bucket’s shoreside parties, spectacular local beaches or world-renowned shopping and restaurants.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283379/image/large-c1d8a0d7d9c638a74da544c6b067a788.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283379">Due to its popularity, it is worth planning your travels to the Bucket well ahead of time, as Peter Craig, Event Director and Race Chairman highlights: “Whether you are racing or race viewing, you need to plan well in advance. Our local businesses claim that ‘Bucket Week’ is the busiest of the year – and that includes Christmas and New Year, so it is important to be very organised when booking accommodation.”Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille (April 2024) Despite being a relatively new addition to the racing scene, Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille is on the bucket list of many seasoned sailors, thanks to its blend of intense island racing and incredible scenery with a fantastic après sailing atmosphere. Come for the racing, stay for the nightlife, as event organiser and co-founder François Tolède explains: “Every evening the race village vibrates with incredible concerts and projections of the day's races on a massive screen. We also have our famous crew party which brings together more than 1,000 guests for a huge laser show, food, a bar, music, DJs and much more.”This article is featured in the 45th edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

How to prepare for a regatta

Georgia Tindale takes a deep dive into the 2023/2024 regatta calendar to share expert insight into the most exciting weeks of the year.

Wind in your sails: Preparing for the upcoming regatta calendar 

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/274351/image/large-b56c13a29fd51d5ce728d507381a057b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/274351">Seen here last week sailing during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="In Pictures: Classic sailing yachts in Falmouth at the Richard Mille Cup Regatta 2023 (2023-06-16 15:00:00 +0200)">Richard Mille Cup Regatta 2023</a> in Falmouth, are the 65-metre classic schooner yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adix64.85m (212'9&quot;)Astilleros de Mallorca S.A.1984">Adix</a> and the 28-metre classic cutter yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8620" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tuiga 28.01m (91'11&quot;)William Fife1909">Tuiga</a>. The triple masted schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adix64.85m (212'9&quot;)Astilleros de Mallorca S.A.1984">Adix</a> was delivered under the name Jessica in 1984 by the Spanish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/211" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros de Mallorca S.A. (Company)">Astilleros de Mallorca</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/997" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arthur Holgate (Company)">Arthur Holgate</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a> collaborated to design her exterior lines and naval architecture, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/31" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Munford Design (Company)">John Munford Design</a> was responsible for her original interior design. In 1991, she underwent a complete refit at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a> shipyard including a transom modification and full interior refurbishment and has since paid subsequent visits to the yard in 2001 and 2008. Onboard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adix64.85m (212'9&quot;)Astilleros de Mallorca S.A.1984">Adix</a> has accommodation for up to eight guests and 13 crew members. Sailing on her port side, is the classic cutter yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8620" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tuiga 28.01m (91'11&quot;)William Fife1909">Tuiga</a>. Delivered in 1909 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">William Fife</a> in the United Kingdom, she features naval architecture and exterior design by her builder. Lastly refitted in 1993, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8620" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tuiga 28.01m (91'11&quot;)William Fife1909">Tuiga</a> has a volume of 29 GT and can accommodate up to eight guests in four staterooms.

Classic sailing yachts Adix and Tuiga in Falmouth

The 65m classic sailing yacht Adix and the 28m sailing yacht Tuiga, are seen here sailing in Falmouth, United Kingdom.

For any passionate sailor worth his salt, sailing aboard a classic J-Class yacht would be the pinnacle of their maritime career. For some however, life aboard the mythic J’s is not just a dream, but an everyday reality, and at times, an adrenaline overload. One of those rare few, is the Suffolk born Englishman, Will Gibbon, who has had the fortune to sail, cruise and live aboard not one, but two of these extraordinary vessels. Will is now in his fourth year as First Mate aboard the original 1933 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> J-Class, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, but he began his career in the Class aboard the 41.55-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/792" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Danish Yachts (Company)">Danish Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a>, a Spirit of Tradition J-Class which was built as an exact replica of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a>' Ranger, launched in 1937. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77147/image/large-d465539bc3e1937d189bed1804c5859f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77147">SYT’s Francesca Webster, caught up with Will, an old friend and wildly unsuccessful (on her part) first sailing coach, to talk about his entrance to the close knit world of classic yachts, his life aboard the sloops, and his all time best experiences.&nbsp;In his late teens, Will worked on the U.K.’s east coast for sailmaker John Parker at his loft OneSails GBR. The international team at OneSails cut cloth for some of the biggest names in the industry, designing sails for superyachts, as well as classics and dinghies. It was here that Will, already an experienced small boat sailor, began sailing and racing more frequently, eventually meeting English comedian Griff Rhys Jones and joining the race crew of his 1948 Bermudan <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a> yawl, Argyll. After three years as race crew, Will stepped up to the 19-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife III</a> sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariquita38.1m (125'0&quot;)William Fife & Sons1911">Mariquita</a>, joining the permanent crew as deckhand. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/21917/image/large-0b83c5c1372e2212f045eeb9db383f5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/21917">In 2015, the news was announced that the entire existing J-Class fleet, minus <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s sister ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, would be coming together in a momentous event at the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda. His passion for classic yachts already ignited, it was Will's firm ambition to join one of the Class and compete in the once in a lifetime regatta. Eventually his dream was recognised, with the invitation to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> as deckhand. “The mate at the time was promoted to captain, and he took me on and I worked through the ranks, which is the best way to learn these yachts. Even though <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> has had a refit since I was last aboard, I am still familiar with both of the yachts, having spent so much time aboard.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195515/image/large-74bdf602eba6143a336b0fe716023033.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195515">For many sailors who witnessed the 2017 America’s Cup, the spectacular show of the J-Class competition stood out as a pinnacle of the event. Processing through Hamilton Harbour, gigantic flags billowing at their stern, the J-Class yachts truly put on a show, and for Will it was a top moment of his career. “Bermuda is definitely the highlight for anyone that has sailed aboard these yachts in recent years, it is easily the highlight of my career.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195513/image/large-ce1f6035c0d913dfafb3f22b12e18447.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195513">It was not all fun and games however, the regatta was a serious affair and every owner, captain and crew wanted to take the top spot during the races. Racing on a yacht coming toward its centenary isn’t without its difficulties, and Bermuda posed some additional challenges for the crew. With the water temperature considerably hotter than the Mediterranean, and the yachts being pushed to their limits, sometimes with only thirty minutes between races. There wasn't much time to catch your breath, “One day we did three windward-leeward courses, which for a J-Class is massive, especially in the small space within the reef in Bermuda. The legs were really short so you’re running everything as hot as possible and down in the engine room it got to about 45-degrees, everything was bubbling a fair amount!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195512/image/large-d61bcbf043ee8584ce98502e67664278.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195512">After Bermuda, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> wintered at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>, and the following season, in 2018, Will joined the crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, now as first mate. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is one of the busiest yachts in the Class, competing year in, year out, usually participating in four regattas annually. As Will explained, many of the Class’ take a year out after big racing seasons like 2017 because the investment of time means less time for cruising, the other hugely rewarding part of owning a J-Class. The owner of one of the newest J's to the fleet, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/32" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Holland Jachtbouw (Company)">Holland Jachtbouw</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2632" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Topaz42.62m (139'10&quot;)Holland Jachtbouw2015">Topaz</a>, launched in 2015, fortunately shares the enthusiasm for racing clearly displayed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner, and the two yachts go bow-to-bow at almost every regatta. On the rare occasion that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is the only J in the regatta fleet, she stands her ground on handicap against her contemporary counterparts, and in 2019 took the top spot at Les Voiles de St Tropez against the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rambler32.5m (106'8&quot;)Astilleros Armon1982">Rambler</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="McConaghy Boats (Company)">McConaughy Boats</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/314" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leopard 330.0m (98'5&quot;)McConaghy Boats2007">Leopard 3</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/79974/image/large-b99c0d0e6faa8dddb4ea6cd2c95239e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/79974">Watching these iconic vessels sparring, be it in the Caribbean or off the coast of Southern France, one is struck by their grace; huge black carbon sails towering over hulls which look like pencils in the water. Despite their classic aesthetic however, these yachts are high performance beasts, as Will noted, “we are always pushing to get every last bit out of the boat, our rigger often reminds us ‘you only have to win by a second’.” Today the entire fleet features carbon masts and sails, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> has hydraulic winches and Future Fibres rigging, a big upgrade from a few years ago. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77148/image/large-2b46575ac18ba220f40e375346d82ea0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77148">When they aren’t competitively racing, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner joins the yacht throughout the year, and cruising is some of the crew’s favourite time aboard. When asked if a particular moment had stayed in Will's mind, a cruise in Greece when they spotted the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> 1934 J-Class <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, the vessel which lost to the American defender Rainbow&nbsp;by Vanderbilt, Herreshoff and Burgess, immediately came to mind. The two yachts were sailing along the same reach and the crew from both put their minds to a race.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/94598/image/large-1744f1ef1e5d64f42ace47e5920f5c88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/94598">With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a> almost never competing, and only the permanent crew of seven aboard, it was all hands on deck for their 20-minute spar, “that was a lot of fun, sailing short handed is some of the most fun you have and when we are cruising you go to some amazing places.” Sardinia is also a top spot for Will, and the Rolex Cup is one of his favourite regattas. Life aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> also has the additional benefit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1480" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bystander42.18m (138'5&quot;)JFA Yachts2006">Bystander</a>, a 42.18-metre superyacht that accompanies the J. The superyacht, which was built by JFA Yachts and launched in 2006, carries additional crew, support and supplies and provides the accommodation for the owner after a long day of racing aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198077/image/large-07d8e02f9c2d3ccd509f5eda7c490c64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198077">For any sailer who hasa spent time aboard the classics, it is impossible not to touch on the maintenance of these yachts, which is a constant hum going on behind the scenes. Unlike their modern counterparts, many of which are made of carbon and GRP with wooden veneers, classic yachts demand constant work to retain them in pristine condition. Last year, while the pandemic raged across the world, and regattas were set aside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s team took the opportunity to conduct her 25 year survey. When she was most recently rescued from the mud and restored, latterly in 1997, it was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/231" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southampton Yacht Services Ltd (Company)">Southhampton Yacht Services</a> that conducted the work. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69138/image/large-f16e6c423018d56133aed37ba823be08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69138">As for the future, Will has other dreams, but he can’t see himself stepping off of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> any time soon, the possibility of an America’s Cup season in New Zealand, or perhaps the United Kingdom, is too much of a draw. After all, once you’ve conquered some of the most coveted super sailing yachts in the world, how can you tear yourself away...This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news/superyacht-times-newspaper-issue-39" target="_blank">Issue 41 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Interview with J-Class Velsheda First Mate

SYT sits down with Will Gibbon, professional sailor and First Mate aboard 1933 J-Class Velsheda. 

Velsheda: Life aboard a Golden Age J-Class

Builder and designer of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fairlie Yachts (Company)">Fairlie</a> range of Spirit of Tradition yachts, Duncan Walker and Paul Spooner, spoke with SuperYacht Times about their latest project. Showcasing the Fairlie 77, we take a look at the source of their motivation, the inspiration behind the design process and what makes this Spirit of Tradition yacht an emerging standout amongst her contemporaries. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200265/image/large-ebf2b2e0acf8bdae652c31dda7be97f2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200265">With deep-rooted links to yachting, Duncan entered the industry as crew of Adix (ex-Jessica) during his self-confessed "running away to sea" phase, having previously completed an engineering degree. Moving on to a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> classic as a taste of things to come, shortly afterwards he joined the restoration crew on the famous <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> schooner, Altair. With fond memories Duncan recalls, "Once completed, I was approached by Albert Obrist the owner and asked to set up a restoration yard in Hamble near Southampton. The rest, as they say, is history! Since 1990 I have been restoring yachts and, more recently, been lucky enough to build modern classics with a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> aesthetic". <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200264/image/large-0bd46b32b8e3a9c70893d07c360f9296.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200264">Paul quickly points out that, more important than his naval architecture degree, he has always enjoyed lots of sailing. Career-wise, he initially started with a variety of design roles before meeting Duncan, starting on design work at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fairlie Yachts (Company)">Fairlie Yachts</a>. Paul continues, "I now have my own company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6406" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paul Spooner Design (Company)">Paul Spooner Design</a>, and still work across many design projects on everything from Spirits of Traditions to motor yachts.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200262/image/large-928aeccfe7bcbefd3affbd9053dffe01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200262">Both draw keen inspiration from the initiatives of famed Scot, William Fife, renowned for the elegance and beauty of his designs, including two Americas Cup yachts and many dozens built to the Metre Rule. Clearly taking a leaf from Fife’s book, both men recognise ‘the Master’s’ &nbsp;importance in the culture of yacht design and development, listing him as up there in the top four names during the late 19th and early 20th century in the UK. "Both of us have spent years on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a>’s, so we know the important elements that give it the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> feel,” notes Paul. “From this, we try to incorporate as much as possible, including aspects such as the tumblehome, which is not easy to design but is well worth the outcome in the end." <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200263/image/large-1b79aff4aa86e225553b0f02b45f1ecf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200263">After 40 years in the industry and 30 years working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> yachts, Duncan expresses passionately, "Working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> yachts and bringing the beauty, elegance and simplicity of his designs back to life is exhilarating and rewarding. We can say that his aesthetics are shamelessly the motivational inspiration behind the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fairlie Yachts (Company)">Fairlie</a> range of modern classic yachts".<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200261/image/large-051e543bb34314433a698d740aa6eff6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200261">The latest design, the Fairlie 77, is a gorgeous William Fife-inspired fin keel yacht. Versatile to the max, she is offered with two sail plans, so she can be used for cruising or racing as per the owners’ specifications. For cruising, she can be outfitted with a cutter headed yawl for ease of handling while under sail, or alternatively, she can be sold as a more modern sloop rig with a powerful fore triangle and mainsail to equip her for racing. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200260/image/large-8e8a078d1b573b71caffeb01baf60052.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200260">As with the 55, while not designed as a racing yacht per se, the 77 is more than capable thanks to her lightweight hull, fin keel and modern rigs. Describing the construction process in detail Paul explains, "The yacht is constructed from laminated timber, with some metal reinforcement used in high-load areas. Her hull is designed with a layer of Douglas fir and diagonal mahogany veneers fastened over these for torsional strength, so she is incredibly strong". <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200259/image/large-817abfdfa148679ecfcd884f13781ddb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200259">Duncan continues, "The great thing is, all the design work is already done, so from deposit to sea trials it is around two years. She is an exciting project that is ready to go!". A big plus for prospective purchasers, the Fairlie 77 is offered with two superb interior accommodation plans which, with an owners' personal input, will make her entirely bespoke.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200258/image/large-9da6804153c3cb5a393debb84b192544.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200258">The question remains, is there a move towards people wanting a Spirit of Tradition or classic yachts and what seems to be their observation on current trends? "I feel people with the ability to spend money and who enjoy restoring things such as cars, houses, motorcycles etc., would love to restore a classic yacht," Duncan enthuses. "However, we are running out of classic yachts to restore plus the crew and maintenance costs are very significant. I do feel that the pride of ownership in our yachts is very high, the Fairlie 55 has been in the same ownership for ten years now. This way, the characteristic elegance and beauty of a classic yacht is reproduced but with lower running costs, better performance and ease of handling". <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200266/image/large-a0ead2a1b9fac0bc5a9886d5dd37ad90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200266">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fairlie Yachts (Company)">Fairlie</a> range is for sure a standout in her class, offering the best of both worlds for those seeking a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> aesthetic together with easy upkeep and high performance. Thanks to Duncan and Paul's passion for their craft and enduring attention to detail, future owners of the beautiful Fairlie 77 will certainly acquire a yacht that displays a seamless combination of design, workmanship and technology. The Fairlie 77 is offered exclusively with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>.

The Fairlie 77 classic yacht with a modern twist

Here, we talk to the builder and designer of Fairlie yachts, Duncan Walker and Paul Spooner, on their latest design, the Fairlie 77.

Fairlie 77 : Elegance and style in a modern classic

Analysis from our yachting archive reveals that in 1970 there were 144 sailing vessels in existence of all types, from schooners to cutters, sloops, and ketches. Broken down by length overall, there were nine yachts over 50-metres, twenty-six between 40 and 49-metres, and one hundred and nine between 30 and 39-metres. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/58394/image/large-58f7772ebce25583296f253ed4e0d157.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/58394">It should also not be forgotten that the established sailing yacht builders of that era were, in general, not very active in constructing large vessels as the costs involved were high and the market was yet to be developed. There were, of course, a few die-hard owners who would keep some of the older yachts that had survived World War II in service. This was in the days before <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> started building large motor sailers and when frequently relied upon technologies such as satcoms had yet to be invented for yachting purposes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/45789/image/large-ec4c5eb1372fc46fcaf3f1e344031da5.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/45789">Of the 144 yachts which made up the fleet in 1970, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> were behind the build of 17 vessels, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> constructed seven, Scottish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife</a> and American builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Herreshoff</a> both completed six each, whilst another 90 shipyards were responsible for the remainder.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/64562/image/large-b8ce46a72989078bd206516d7a589903.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/64562">As many yachts were still being discovered in the 1970s and 80s, the restoration business was in its infancy and would steadily become an important part of the yacht market as the years progressed. Indeed, numerous yachts of great significance have been saved from being broken up since those early years.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/21907/image/large-331ebafc197a1c25c5863ebbf61b0280.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/21907">This article was originally published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/brexit-latest-in-superyacht-times-newspaper" target="_blank">Spring 2021 issue of The SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To receive all future issues straight to your door, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">subscribe to the newspaper here</a>.

Sailing into 1970: sailing yacht history

SYT’s in-house historian Malcolm Wood turns the clock back to the groovy year of 1970 to dive deeper into sailing yacht history.

Sailing into 1970

Entries for the Royal Yacht Squadron’s Solent summer celebration of 200 years, the RYS International Bicentenary Regatta, have reached sixty, organisers report, with numbers rising every day.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153850/image/large-a925a23eec82c3a1749d67f43ff66601.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153850">Four J-Class yachts will be participating, including the latest confirmed entry Rainbow, who will join Velsheda, Lionheart, and Ranger in the seven days of racing. More latest additions confirming their presence include the William Fife designed Mariquita which was built in 1911 and restored to her former glory in 2003.The 60ft day racer Spectre will also be at the show, helmed by Sir Charles Dunstone. Two time Olympic Silver Medallist Nick Rogers will be taking charge of tactics onboard. He says “The International Bicentenary is going to be a great event and we are really looking forward to using it as a platform to get Spectre going.” Completed only last autumn, this will be the first time that the Persico Marine-built flyer will be seen showing her full potential in the UK.The pair will be contesting a competitive IRC fleet, sailing alongside other classic yachts such as Saskia and Tomahawk, and grand prix racers ranging from Mike Slade’s Leopard to Piet Vroon’s winning Tonnere of Breskens.Furthermore, Royal Varuna Yacht Club, a competitive racing club located in a tropical paradise just two hours from Bangkok is fielding a team for the Bicentenary’s Level Rating class. Their crews will be sailing against a number of other club teams.By Gemma Fottles

Royal Yacht Squadron Bicentenary regatta

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/126329/image/large-d6bbd1d74d5703c28e0eeb6e638236e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/126329">The William Fife designed schooner Altair in AntiguaThe William Fife designed gaff-rigged schooner Altair in Antigua on 27 December 2007. The 40 metre sailing yacht was built by William Fife &amp; Sons in 1931 in Fairlie, UK and in 1987 she was restored by Southampton Yacht Services. Altair has had many owners in the past and these days she is owned by an American film maker. By Merijn de Waard

The William Fife designed schooner Altair in Antigua

Racing at the 10th edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez began this morning under bright sun and almost summer conditions. With a promising breeze at the start that later fell still, today was the first race for the Classics who enjoyed the chance to hoist their sails and race one another over a 24-mile coastal course. Leading the fleet home were Altair and Rowdy within a hair's breadth of one another. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125593/image/large-b144c6519cc5e92d383ba07af51d8f9b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125593">Today was also the first day of the Rolex Trophy, which is open to classic yachts over 16 metres in length. The winner of this trophy will only be known for certain when the overall scores are revealed on Saturday evening, adding to the suspense of what is sure to be an enthralling series. Whoever proves to be the winner, we may be confident that she will have been the most sure-footed of those competing this week. With more than 300 monohulls on the water today, crowds onshore, spectator boats, the media and the numerous photographers on site, Organisers' the Societe Nautique de Saint-Tropez will be pleased with both their course planning and crowd control went so remarkably smoothly at this grand spectacle that is one of the sailing world's greatest annual gatherings. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125594/image/large-62d79d6751856f653630ffcbe10dcf32.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125594">Yesterday we took a look at how Olin J. Stephens changed the face of yacht design forever. Today we look towards William Fife Jr, another one of the great classic yacht designers, whose success spanned both the 19th and 20th Centuries. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125595/image/large-fff11f4502ea642051206a3a07c8d5a5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125595">Grandson and son of William Fife I and II, William Fife III (Fife Junior) was a descendant of a long line of family naval architects. Born in 1857 in Fairlie, on the West Coast of Scotland, William Fife Jr. grew up surrounded by his father's and grandfather's boat designs. Quickly initiated into the family business, Fife Jr. did not have long to wait before he made his own name in the industry. His drawings quickly seduced some of the greatest European families and the second yacht Fife Jr drew-up was Dragon, from which his trademark dragon signature was born; a symbol found on the bow of every vessel he designed from this point on. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125596/image/large-9b2c376605a9c266cddb171bd8af4919.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125596">In 1879 he completed the 190-ton schooner that was property of Jean Baptiste Charcot and that sailed under the name Why Not. Another yacht, originally named Yum, was finished by the Fairlie shipyard in 1898 and became famous under the name Pen Duick. By this time already Fife Jr was internationally recognized for the quality and beauty of the boats he designed and constructed. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125597/image/large-8703cf2172603c0ad451f3b852d663c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125597">Fife Jr soon became involved in the heady world of the America's Cup, notably drawing a series of boats named Shamrock for the challenges put forward by tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton. Fife Jr's Shamrocks were ultimately unsuccessful, losing to Columbia in 1899 and to Reliance in 1903. This was not his only venture into thoroughbred racing yachts. Fife was responsible for some of the greatest and fastest 15 and 19-metre boats of the period after the first International Rule was established in 1906. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125598/image/large-2bc5f6b2343658c11718f96d6f2dec16.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125598">William Fife Jr was a prolific architect often creating over 50 designs annually, the majority of those drawings coming to life within a year. In 1903, Moonbeam of Fife was completed for Charles Plumtree Johnson and, it was following the war that Johnson ordered another of Fife Jr's most famous designs still in existence today: Moonbeam IV, completed in 1920. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125599/image/large-6389558408ae4dfdf7d8371c1cd01301.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125599">For over 50 years Fife Jr's yachts won races all over the world and he designed almost 1000 during his career, which continued into his late seventies (Latifa was completed in 1935 when he was 78 years old). <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125600/image/large-7c3ee8716a967646fb85432efdc265f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125600">Today no one knows exactly how many of Fife Jr's designs still exist, although there are thought to be about 100, perhaps half of which are still on the water, lovingly restored and cared for by justifiably proud owners. Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2008 is proud to welcome some of those here to participate in the regatta. Any fellow Scotsman in Saint Tropez this week will take pride in seeing potential Rolex Trophy winners Cambria, Altair, Mariquita, Irina VII, Nan of Fife, Moonbeam III and Moonbeam IV on the docks; enough great names to make all the sailors in the world dream of both past and present glory. Photos by Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi