One of the fundamental aspects of the design is the sailboat’s lines. The S8 is purposely crafted to be a fast cruiser. So that the navigator feels the speed when sailing. This feeling is enhanced by the materials from which it is built. The raw materials used make it a light sailboat. A combination that made me glide through the waves and convey sensations like few boats I have tried so far.

Everything has been thought of in the manufacturing process. For example, Sarch gives the possibility to choose the S8 with an outboard or inboard engine of up to 20 hp. With an electric start and remote control. If you opt for an inboard engine, it is installed in a compartment in the cockpit, without taking space away from the cabin.

For the sails, the shipyard relies on a classic: North Sails. They generally install a set with a larger Squarehead and a furling genoa jib. But they can be changed for Sport Pentex or 3DI models, depending on the sailor’s preference. Knowing how important safety is for all sailors, the S8 has a composite keel with a lead bulb. This way, the heaviest part of the boat is deeper into the water, and thus the sailboat becomes more stable.

Sarch S8, Onboard Comfort

To design the interior of the Sarch S8 the first thing that was taken into consideration was the owner’s comfort. A comfort that surpasses any boat in our segment, within the possibilities that a cruiser of 8 meters in length has.

The cabin is the perfect height to make getting in and out as simple and effortless as possible. And the spaces are spacious and bright. Although they may seem unimportant details, when you are inside the sailboat you still have the same feeling of freedom that you have on deck.

To make the boat like a house on the sea, on the inside, there is a triangular bed on the bow, a cabin in the stern with 1 double berth, a separate toilet, a kitchen bar, a lounge area, and a large storage space. You also have the possibility to place an electric fridge. And all of this was built with the utmost care.

It is not the most luxurious hotel suite in the world, but on the S8 you have everything you need to spend the summer nights on board as comfortably as possible. One of the things that made us fall in love was the fact that we could anchor practically on the shore of a cave, without the need of an inflatable boat to approach the beach, since it has a fantastic system of a lifting keel.

The experience of sailing with a Sarch S8

Beyond the technical data, there is no better way to know if a sailboat is suitable than talking about the sailing experience. Hear from those who have experienced firsthand the sensations it transmits with changes in wind gusts, how maneuvers are made or the ease of handling to have a more realistic and sincere vision of the cruise.

One of the most striking features of the S8 is its dynamism and speed. A speed that you can control thanks to its ease of movement. When you try it, you’ll feel like you’re flying over the sea. And the scent of the foam from the waves crashing against the hull will make the experience even more captivating.

The composite keel model with lead bulb means that, despite being a light boat, it is not affected by the wind gusts or destabilized by the force of the waves. A single piece that transforms this Sarch sailboat into a safe vessel, making it surprisingly stable, which constitutes one of its great qualities. A soft rocking that makes the experience of sailing a S8 sublime.

It should be noted that the cockpit is protected, so the owner will be able to keep dry during the entire voyage.

Operating this cruiser is quite simple. Maneuvering has been simplified to be easy, centralized over the cabin with 1 main winch and 2 cockpit winches, which are sufficient for the main maneuver and trim controls. This allows for solo sailing. On deck, the helmsman has the necessary space to sit comfortably and make the whole journey pleasant.

Sarch S8 Specs

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The new trophy has been specially created for VO65 teams and will be awarded to the team which accumulates the best score across three different legs of the race: Alicante, Spain to Cabo Verde; Aarhus, Denmark to The Hague, the Netherlands; and The Hague to Genova, Italy.

VO65 teams participating for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup will compete in the VO65 class in the In-port races scheduled in those cities as well as the three stages of offshore racing from point to point.  

“This new trophy will enable a new generation of sailors, along with some familiar faces, to gain some valuable experience in The Ocean Race,” said Phil Lawrence, Race Director of The Ocean Race.

“This format provides an opportunity to compete in The Ocean Race environment, with racing from host city to host city along with In-port competitions. The participating VO65 teams will get significant offshore racing exposure.”

The first racing for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup is the In-port race in Alicante, Spain on 8 January 2023, followed by the first offshore stage in the event from Alicante to Cabo Verde starting on 15 January. 

“We are very happy that we will compete in the In-port race (8 January) and then take the leg one start in Alicante on 15 January. We’re looking forward to racing three incredible Legs against some top-level competition. It promises to be an incredible battle,” said Jelmer van Beek, a 27-year old Dutch sailor from The Hague who has been named skipper and will lead the young Team JAJO. 

“For me personally it is an amazing challenge to be the skipper of Team JAJO. I think I am one of the youngest skippers to take a start in the race. It’s a huge responsibility and above all a challenge. But one that I am ready for and really looking forward to, especially with this team.”

The Dutch boat had a refit at Royal Huisman last summer and is almost race ready, with finishing touches being applied in Barcelona, before the team assembles for training on 6th December. 

“It’s been such a big learning experience working on this boat to get it ready for racing,” said Mateusz Gwóźdź from the Polish team. He is once again expected to be the youngest sailor in the race, at just 17 years old, and having previously competed in The Ocean Race Europe. “I can’t wait to get the boat in the water and do more training before we head for Alicante.”

The Polish team has been preparing its new VO65 (previously AkzoNobel) from a base in Valencia, Spain and is planning to make a full team and crew announcement shortly.

Working its way back into The Ocean Race is Team Viva México, who are aiming for a Mexican comeback of sorts after the historic win of Sayula II in the first edition of the race in 1973. No Mexican-flagged team has participated in the race since then.

“In 2019 we set ourselves a goal to bring Mexico back into what we consider the greatest race around the world,” said skipper Erik Brockmann, who led the team in The Ocean Race Europe. “Many things have changed in the past three years that we did not anticipate then, but being on the start line to race for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup is an exciting step towards bringing Mexico back into Race and a way of paying tribute to the historic win we achieved 50 years ago.”

More information about the VO65 teams racing for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup will be made available shortly.

Meanwhile, the IMOCA fleet is set to lead the action in The Ocean Race with five teams – 11th Hour Racing Team, Team Malizia, GUYOT environnement-Team Europe, Biotherm Racing and Holcim PRB – featuring many of the top names in offshore sailing, racing around the world. The IMOCA fleet will assemble in Alicante, Spain from 2 January 2023 ahead of their In-port race on 8 January. Leg One of The Ocean Race begins on 15 January.

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A permanent exclusion zone for the duration of the racing has been agreed to ensure safety for both the competitors and the expected daily armada of spectator boats that will take the opportunity to see the AC75s and AC40s at close range. But for those onshore, racing could, depending on conditions, see action just a few hundred metres off the beach at times and with galleries and fan zones planned, Barcelona will be set to host the world at this, the 37^th America’s Cup. 

Also confirmed is the date for the Women’s America’s Cup Regatta Final which occupies prime time viewing, to a global audience, straight after Race 5 on October 16th 2024, giving the women’s event significant coverage and profile. Racing the new and exciting AC40 class set up in strict one-design mode, the sailors that get to the final of the Women’s America’s Cup will undoubtedly be some of the finest foiling athletes on the planet and a clear pathway to the future of the America’s Cup will be on show.

Racing in the America’s Cup Match itself, which will be a best of 13 (first to seven) format will commence on Saturday 12th October with two races scheduled, followed by a further two races on Sunday 13th October 2024. Racing will then pause for two days, however at the discretion of the Regatta Director and after consultation with both the Defender and the Challenger, and depending on conditions, both of these days could be used to complete two races a day. The schedule as it stands, without the use of the Monday or Tuesday, would recommence on Wednesday 16th October 2024 for one race (race 5) in the Match followed by the Women’s America’s Cup Regatta Final as mentioned above.

Thursday 17th October is officially not scheduled for racing but again, subject to the Regatta Director’s discretion and agreement with the competitors, could be allocated for two further races depending on conditions whilst Friday 18th October 2024 is officially marked as a ‘Spare Day’ for up to two more races. Two races per day are also scheduled for Saturday 19th October and Sunday 20th October 2024, if required.

The objective of the Event Authority is to have racing concluded over the weekend of the 19th/20th October 2024, however the schedule does allow for racing to continue into the following week from the 21st October 2024 through to the 27th October 2024, on reserve days if required.

Speaking about the format announcement, Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Events Limited commented: “We are excited to confirm the dates determining the Match racing period and our huge thanks go to the Capitán Marítimo and the Port of Barcelona authority who have been so pro-active and accommodative throughout the process. This is a significant event to plan for, with safety concerns at the top of the list for both spectators and competitors. I think the result is going to be something pretty spectacular with racing taking place in front of the beach, along the coast from the main port entrance right along the coast, past the Port Olímpic and out further east, offering a fantastic viewing opportunity for the public to see these remarkable boats at full pace.”

The post Dates and Race Area confirmed for the 37th America’s Cup Match appeared first on Sail Universe.

1. HONOLULU, HAWAII

Of course we know Hawaii for having beautiful beaches, flora, and fauna.  But there is so much more, including great cuisine, museums, and of course the fabulous weather!  Who can beat the temperature, which hovers in the 80s but rarely goes above the 90s.

2. VENICE, ITALY

Did you know that the city is actually floating? The city was built on top of many islands, making it essentially an island itself!  With so much history to see as well, this is another great city to sail about in!

3. PERTH, AUSTRALIA

This city has not only beaches at your fingertips, but national parks,  gardens and even areas specially protecting wildlife.  Its also a bit of gem, being underrated compared to other cities in Australia, so if you are looking for the next best thing, look no further!

4. MIAMI, FLORIDA

With its location on the southern tip of Florida, Miami has not only beautiful beaches, but also tons to do including snorkeling, fishing and even scuba diving.

5. HELSINKI, FINLAND

Helsinki It is made up of around 330 islands, which means there is plenty to see, and you have the capital of the country at your fingertips to check out should you venture to dry land!

6. BARCELONA, SPAIN

This city is not only known for great food, but tons of culture to explore!  Check out its museums, its architecture, and its sheer size, boasting being the  Mediterranean Sea’s largest city.

7. BANGKOK, THAILAND

There is so much to see and do in this wonderful city!  Not only are you privy to some of the best street food in the world, you have access to beautiful golf courses, temples, and wonderful architecture.

No matter where you look to sail in this lifetime, make sure to check out the entire world. There are no shortages of beautiful cities to sail in!

The post 7 Wonderful Cities to Live on a Sailboat appeared first on Sail Universe.

Escoffier confirmed his entry as his re-branded IMOCA, in striking green and blue, was rolled out of the workshed in Lorient, France, and relaunched in a ceremony on Monday.

“I love racing, and The Ocean Race is an amazing race where you push 100% all the time,” said Escoffier. “And you share this life with your crew. In 2014-15 it was my first race with Dongfeng Race Team and Charles Caudrelier as the skipper. In 2017-18 I was very lucky he called me back to join a winning campaign!“

“Now I’m very happy to come back with my own project. It’s a short timeline. We will have to work hard. But we have a great team…“

“The decision to commit to The Ocean Race was only confirmed in July so it’s come just in time… We have some work ahead and it demands some effort on logistics and preparation but it’s all good news and a fantastic opportunity.“

“We’re very happy with the boat, with the new branding and looking forward to getting sailing already at the end of this week,” Escoffier added. 

“We have a strong, all-purpose boat, very easy to handle and I think it will be a fast boat when single-handing and in fully-crewed configuration for The Ocean Race.”

Escoffier says the team will name the crew for the fully-crewed The Ocean Race in the coming weeks. In the meantime, he will be competing solo in the Défi Azimut in Lorient, France in September and the Route du Rhum transatlantic race in November.

Holcim-PRB joins Charlie Enright’s 11th Hour Racing Team, Boris Herrmann’s Team Malizia, Benjamin Dutreux and Robert Stanjek’s GUYOT Environment – Team Europe and Paul Meilhat’s Biotherm as confirmed entries in the MOCA division for The Ocean Race 2022-23.

The post Holcim – PRB confirms new IMOCA entry in The Ocean Race appeared first on Sail Universe.

1. Faros Bay, Polyaigos

The fifth-century BC shipwreck that you can see on the sea bottom is just one of the many treasures housed in this beautiful and lonely Cycladic Island. Despite being very close to Milos and Kimolos, it is now uninhabited. Its uncontaminated habitat, where monk seals reproduce and it isn’t uncommon to spot a Caretta turtle, is part of the European Union’s Natura 2000 protection program.

2. Anse de Roccapina, Corse

Among the 7 most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean Sea, you can choose a small gem tucked in the fauna on the southwest coast in the Sartène area, it’s fringed with a half-moon of sand as fine as talcum powder and a crystal-clear sea. Framing it, are the unmissable Genovan tower and the Rocher du Lion, a high cliff on top of which you can see the outline of a lion’s head shaped by the wind.

3. Alimnia, Rhodes

Off the west coast of Rhodes and very close to Halki the desert islet of Alimnia, with its deep bay, is a magnificent natural harbor. It was an Italian military base and there are still some abandoned houses featuring wall paintings representing war ships and submarines. Surrounded by high mountains, the bay is wild and one of the most beautiful in the Dodecanese.

4. Cala Brigantina, Palmarola

Throwing down the anchor under the cliff edges of the most photogenic of the Pontine Islands is like experiencing one big technicolor show. Depending on the time of day and the light, the colors shift from white to gold of the cliff, from emerald to turquoise, to the cobalt of the sea. The most spectacular site is in the northern end, where the narrow crevices in the rock earned the nickname “Cathedral”, but the best place to anchor is the south.

5. Dos Mares, Formentera

North of the smallest of the Balearic Islands, where a narrow strip of land stretches out to the islet of Espalmador, Formentera looks like the Caribbean. Its dazzling white sands and rocks create bright turquoise reflections in the water and, depending on the whims of the wind, you can choose between two beaches: the wilder and quieter Levante or the busier and trendier Ponente.

6. Marina Piccola, Capri

Capri’s Faraglioni rocks have been seen, photographed, described, and even sung about. But they bring new emotions every time. The best place to enjoy the view is Marina Piccola, which is more intimate and less chaotic than its bigger sister. At sunset the more daring visitors can climb along the narrow hairpin turns of the famous Via Krupp up to The Gardens of Augustus. It offers an unparalleled view of the Faraglioni and the Marina.

7. Agia Anna, Amorgos

Coming in from the sea the white silhouette of the Horoviotissa monastery, nestled in on account of the steepness of the paper-thin, lime-painted rocky wall. The safest moorings can be found at the opposite end of this barren and windy island – one of the most fascinating in the Aegean Sea – but a stop in front of Agia Anna beach is a must, and the monks are very hospitable.

These are, in our opinion, the 7 most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean Sea. What do you say? What are your heart places?

The post The 7 most Beautiful Bays in the Mediterranean Sea appeared first on Sail Universe.

1. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

Beautiful beyond words, Navagio beach, also known as smuggler’s cove, is a small beach surrounded by enormous cliffs on all sides with an old shipwreck in the middle. It is exactly the image that comes to mind when imagining a pirate crew’s home. The water is a crystalline blue that shimmers in the most beautiful of ways. Aside from its idyllic beaches, Zante also has a reputation for being one of the most popular party islands in Europe. Check out this laganas nightlife guide to discover the many famous bars, clubs, events and restaurants that you can visit on your trip to the island.

2. Cala Luna, Italy

This isolated beach is located in the Golf of Orosei in Sardinia, Italy, is shaped like a crescent and is teeming with marine life. If you are boating or sailing here, bring diving or snorkeling equipment with you as it is most certainly worth a plunge or two!

3. Faros Bay, Polyaigos, Greece

The fifth-century BC shipwreck that you can see on the sea bottom is just one of the many treasures housed in this beautiful and lonely Cycladic Island. Despite being very close to Milos and Kimolos, it is now uninhabited. Its uncontaminated habitat, where monk seals reproduce and it isn’t uncommon to spot a Caretta turtle, is part of the European Union’s Natura 2000 protection program.

4. Saleccia, France

Situated in Corsica, Saleccia is a completely isolated beach with no man-built structures insight. With its pearl-white sand and its transparent waters, it is reputed to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

5. Alimnia, Rhodes, Greece

Off the west coast of Rhodes and very close to Halki the desert islet of Alimnia, with its deep bay, is a magnificent natural harbor. It was an Italian military base and there are still some abandoned houses featuring wall paintings representing warships and submarines. Surrounded by high mountains, the bay is wild and one of the most beautiful in the Dodecanese and in the Mediterranean Sea.

6. Marina Piccola, Capri, Italy

Capri’s Faraglioni rocks have been seen, photographed, described, and even sung about. But they bring new emotions every time. The best place to enjoy the view is Marina Piccola, which is more intimate and less chaotic than its bigger sister. At sunset the more daring visitors can climb along the narrow hairpin turns of the famous Via Krupp up to The Gardens of Augustus. It offers an unparalleled view of the Faraglioni and the Marina.

7. Agia Anna, Amorgos, Greece

Coming in from the sea the white silhouette of the Horoviotissa monastery, nestled in on account of the steepness of the paper-thin, lime-painted rocky wall. The safest moorings can be found at the opposite end of this barren and windy island – one of the most fascinating in the Aegean Sea – but a stop in front of Agia Anna beach is a must, and the monks are very hospitable.

8. Anse de Roccapina, Corse

A small gem tucked in the fauna on the southwest coast in the Sartène area, it’s fringed with a half-moon of sand as fine as talcum powder and a crystal-clear sea. Framing it, are the unmissable Genovan tower and the Rocher du Lion, a high cliff on top of which you can see the outline of a lion’s head shaped by the wind. If you are sailing in the Mediterranean Sea… don’t miss it!

9. Minorca, Spain

Though it may be the lesser known of the Balearic Islands, Minorca is scattered with more spectacular beaches than Ibiza and Mallorca combined, including Cala Mitjaneta, Cala Pregonda, Cala Macarella and Macarelleta… The rolling landscape is mixed with secluded coves and beaches along with a climate ideal for sailing, making it a true sailing paradise.

10. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Combining the best of both worlds, Italy boasts a beautiful countryside with Tuscan cypress trees as well as a stunning coastline known as the Amalfi coast. As you sail along the coast, you can see these great mountains lining the coast itself and harboring small towns all along its length. Stopping at any of them is a good idea to enjoy the delicious, genuine Italian cuisine, wine and hospitality.

11. Alonnisos, Greece

In the western part of the Aegean Sea, near Skiatos and Skopelos lays Alonnisos, an island less known, that holds a special charm. Just the simple image of the island filled with pines and olive trees can offer you relaxation. The atmosphere is typical for Greek islands unaltered by the flow of tourists, so you can have an authentic experience. The southern part of the island is full of beaches and crystalline bays. Kokkinokastro is one of the most beautiful ones, being surrounded by an impressive wall of red stone.

12. Egadi Islands, Italy

The Egadi Islands consist of a group of three small, rocky islands, Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo, lying some 6-10 miles off the harbour of Trapani at the extreme NW corner of Sicily. They were the site of a major naval battle in 241 BC which effectively ended Carthaginian resistance during the First Punic War.

13. Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Montenegro’s popularity is booming, especially in the south-western part of the country, where the beautiful UNESCO protected Boka Bay, which is exciting to explore by boat, is situated. The most dramatic and exquisite sunken canyon in Europe not only boasts surreal views and pretty tiny villages but is home to the most developed infrastructure in the whole state. Among the best facilities, are several luxurious waterfront hotels and marinas with appealing berth prices for yacht owners (take a look to Porto Montenegro), especially in comparison with classic destinations of the past, such as Monaco or Porto Cervo

14. Cala de Formentor, Mallorca, Spain

Sailing along the North Mallorcan coast with a sea breeze is a thrilling experience. Beautiful mountains, cliffs, lots of green and this crystal blue water combine to make the visual experience breathtaking. After sailing (from West to East) by the Cabo Formentor, the Northernmost point of Mallorca, sail 5 Nautical Miles SW and you’ll find a really enjoyable anchorage.

15. Port Cros, France

Port Cros is the smallest of the three islands which make up the “îles d’Or” in the golf of Hyères. 4 km long and 3 km wide the island extends to 690 hectares. The Island of Port-Cros is a natural marine reserve. Although there is a small port with two B&Bs, some restaurants, bars and a small grocery store, the rest of the island is an uninhabited park. There are walking paths which lead to various desolate beaches where you can snorkel amongst the kind of fish that are rarely ever given the opportunity to grow so large.

It’s your turn! Which is your preferred place to sail in Mediterranean Sea?

The post Top 15 places sailing around Mediterranean Sea this summer appeared first on Sail Universe.

But as one of the competitors put it, referring to the Hollywood saying, without some drama there’s never a good ending.

Lighter winds greeted the World Championship contenders in the ClubSwan 36, ClubSwan 42 and ClubSwan 50 fleets as they set out for the deciding two races.

ClubSwan 50: Cuordileone stays cool to seal victory

Having headed out on the final day just a point ahead of some determined rivals the crew of Cuordileone, helmed by Leonardo Ferragamo, could have been forgiven a few nerves. Not a bit of it.

Delivering a bullet in the first race opened some clear water to Hendrik Brandis’ persistent challenger Earlybird and a third place in the second and final contest sealed victory in the ClubSwan 50 class.

A clearly delighted Leonardo Ferragamo said: “Being World Champion is very emotional, and it was fought for very hard right up to the very last minute. That’s why one-design racing is so incredible, with the boats so close together right to the end. This is my very first World Championship and I am very happy.”

Federico Michetti, Head of Sport Activities at ClubSwan Racing, added: “It’s an amazing feeling to be World Champion. It’s been an incredible week with unbelievable champagne sailing conditions, and to finish by winning the World title is something quite unique. I am very proud of the team.”

Louis Balcaen’s Balthasar produced an identical 3-1 scoreline and was able to move to within a point of second placed Earlybird in the battle for podium places.

Defending World Champion Marcus Brennecke’s team on Hatari delivered a second place in each race but could not close the gap down and finished in fourth overall.

ClubSwan 36: Unexpected race result leaves Mamao with it all to do

In the ClubSwan 36 fleet a penultimate race win by Lorenzo Mondo’s Farstar, and an equally notable seventh place by long-time class leader Mamao, saw the top four boats go into their final race only separated by a single point with Farstar on pole.

But in a situation seemingly designed to show her resilience, Haakon Lorentzen’s Brazil-flagged Mamao bounced right back to take only her second race win of the regatta – finishing level on 33 points with Farstar and the winner on countback.

A delighted Lorentzen said: “Yes we are World Champions, for the first time in my life! It feels very good. I was wanting to win it, but it is a hard class and we had to win the last race. We managed it and it is incredible!

“The conditions have been fantastic, we have loved the event, and now we will love it for ever! We are looking forward to the next one.”

Tactician Ross MacDonald added: “The first race was difficult for us, and we were probably a bit too conservative and in the end we did too many tacks and ended up in seventh place, so that gave us a bit of excitement for the last race – but like they say in Hollywood, without the drama there’s never a good ending.”

Edoardo Ferragamo’s Cuordileone claimed the final podium place with Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio’s G Spot falling out of contention for a top-three finish.

ClubSwan 42: Local fans can cheer Nadir’s clear win

Having given herself a bit to do on the final day to confirm her leading position, Pedro Vaquer’s Nadir delivered in style, posting a 1-2 scoreline to take the ClubSwan 42 class by a clear 12 points, giving local Spanish fans much to cheer about.

Speaking back ashore Vaquer said: “We are very happy. We had prepared for the Worlds, we had trained, and everything worked out very well for us although the numbers don’t perhaps show how close it was on the water!”

And he added: “The conditions have been great, and Valencia has been a very good place to race.”

Massimo De Campo’s Selene-Alifax secured second place while another boat representing Spain at the regatta, Jose Maria Meseguer’s Pez De Abril, pulled out the stops with results of 2-3 to get on the podium, displacing Pit Finis’ Dralion who had started the final day in a clear third place.

In the Best-Placed Nations standings at the Swan One Design Worlds, Italy and Germany are tied at the top with 28 points each thanks to the heroics of Cuordileone and Drifter Sail, and Earlybird and Hatari, for their respective countries. Nadir and the ClubSwan 42 Pez De Abril helped Spain into third place.

6 July 2022

Big wind, big waves and great racing on the opening day of the Swan One Design Worlds 2022

The Swan One Design Worlds 2022, hosted by the Real Club Náutico de Valencia, got underway in some style today with three races for each competing class delivering dramatic and exhilarating racing in brisk conditions off Valencia, Spain.

Following storms overnight the ClubSwan Racing fleet had to contend with a steady but shifting breeze that increased during the afternoon from 12-13 knots up to 20 knots amid two-metre waves, setting a true test for the crews who are a mix of amateur and professional sailors.

With tight racing the order of the day around windward-leeward courses, smart tactical calls could make all the difference to the final outcome of any given race.

ClubSwan 42: Spain in the lead 

When the spray settled it was perhaps appropriate that the ClubSwan 42 class was led by two yachts representing Spain for the first time this year. Nadir topped the class, with owner Pedro Vaquer helming her to two race wins in a 1-3-1 scoreline ahead of Jose Maria Meseguer’s Pez De Abril, four points behind.

Back on the dock Vaquer said: “Today’s races were very difficult because there was wind but above all there were many waves and, in those conditions, it is difficult to steer the boat.

“Our goal is to win but I think that any boat of this fleet of nine can win the championship. So we have started very well but we still have a way to go.”

And he added: “We are very proud to represent Spain in this international fleet. There are three Spanish boats here on this occasion and every time one of us wins, we are all happy.”

Massimo De Campo’s Italian-flagged Selene-Alifax was on the third step of the first-day podium just a point behind Pez De Abril having taken the win in race two.

ClubSwan 50: three races, three different winners

Equally closely contested, the 16-strong ClubSwan 50 class produced three different winners across the day.

The Leonardo Ferragamo-helmed Cuordileone ended the day’s racing in pole position posting results of 3-3-1, a point ahead of defending class World Champion Marcus Brennecke’s Hatari who won the first race.

Earlybird – like Hatari flying the flag for Germany – was in third place closely pursued by Belgium’s Balthasar. Owner and helm Louis Balcaen said: “Today we had epic sailing conditions up to 20 knots, awesome, in warm weather and plenty of breeze.

“You can see at the marks that the level is getting higher and higher all the time, it is getting closer and closer, and we had a penalty at the top mark, so we made our lives a little bit difficult today, but we managed to win the second race which was nice.“

ClubSwan 36: Brazil edges ahead

Meanwhile, the first day leader in the highly-competitive ClubSwan 36 fleet was also the one that had traveled the furthest to be in Valencia – Mamao all the way from Brazil.

A 1-2-3 scoreline saw her finish two points ahead of the hard-charging British yacht Black Seal, which won the Swan Sardinia Challenge back in June, with Richard Thompson’s crew taking the last two race victories.

Mamao’s owner Haakon Lorentzen said: “It was very good, and we won the day today. We are having fun and it is great to be back international sailing. We are here to do as well as we can. 

“The team is from a yacht club in Rio de Janeiro, and we have been sailing together for many years, and they are great sailors.“

The celebratory prize-giving ashore, with daily awards sponsored by Garmin, was held at the host club the Real Club Náutico de Valencia, with all the race teams able to celebrate a successful opening day of the Swan One Design Worlds.

Among the ClubSwan Racing 2022, One Design circuit partners present in Valencia is Rolex, who once again fulfills the vital role of timekeeper. As a now long-standing partner of the ClubSwan Racing One Design circuit, Rolex plays a central part in the ongoing success of the ClubSwan Racing project.

4 July 2022

Swan One Design Worlds 2022 in Valencia to Deliver a True Test of Talent

The historic Spanish port city of Valencia takes its turn in the spotlight this week with the arrival of one of the undoubted highlights of the ClubSwan Racing season, the Swan One Design Worlds 2022.

With the high-profile title of World Champion 2022 there to be earned in three one-design classes – ClubSwan 36, ClubSwan 42 and ClubSwan 50 – the competitive regatta will provide the arena for a clash of the titans.

Hosted by the renowned and exclusive Real Club Náutico de Valencia, the Swan One Design Worlds will bring together the diverse Nautor’s Swan family, as ever combining top ranked professional racers, and passionate and enthusiastic Corinthian sailors.

“The Swan One Design Worlds is a major test of talent that showcases the competitive and varied community that is at the heart of the ClubSwan Racing experience,” said Federico Michetti, Head of Sport Activities at ClubSwan Racing.

“The city of Valencia and the Real Club Náutico de Valencia have warmly welcomed the ClubSwan family which, for the first time this year, includes boats representing Switzerland, Spain and France in the closely contested Nations League.”

A family affair 

One entry flying the flag for France is Raving Swan, racing in the nine-strong ClubSwan 42 class which is making its first collective appearance on the ClubSwan Racing circuit in 2022.

Under a rule voted in by the owners all yachts in the ClubSwan 42 class have agreed to give special importance to crew who are either female, under 26, or direct family members, in a bid to enhance the class’ Corinthian spirit.

In Raving Swan‘s case owner Jerome Stubler races alongside sons Hugo and Oscar as well as family friends and his wife Nathalie and daughter at the Copa del Rey every year with a largely Corinthian crew. Nevertheless, the Raving Swan team put in a consistent performance in 2021 to win the ClubSwan 42 World Championship on their debut.

“We’ve got a lot to live up to after last year, but we are looking forward to the challenge and renewing our friendly rivalry with the other 42s,” said Stubler.

“The ClubSwan Racing team are experts at putting on top-line racing, and the shoreside events add to the whole experience – we can’t wait,” he added.

Also racing in the class is the German flagged Dralion, with owner Peter Finis racing with his wife Petra, and Italy’s Canopo whose new owner Adriano Majolino is delighted to be making his ClubSwan 42 debut.

The largest class at the Worlds

The 16-strong ClubSwan 50 class – the largest at the Worlds – is welcoming new owner Enis Ersu at the helm of Xai Vision, and the first appearance this year of Spanish entry Tenaz.

“It’s great to be back racing and wonderful to be competing on home waters here in Valencia,” said Tenaz owner Pablo Garriga. “ClubSwan Racing is exhilarating and competitive, and we will have our work cut out in such a talented fleet,” added Garriga, who is a committed racing sailor and Commodore of the Real Club Náutico de Barcelona.

Ultra-competitive 36s

Meanwhile the ultra-competitive ClubSwan 36 fleet will include Italy’s Far Star, making her first appearance in 2022, and Turkish entry Facing Future, with owner Mehmet Taki looking to consign his 2021 Worlds result to history.

“We knew the ClubSwan 36 class was going to be fun, and very, very competitive, which we had confirmed at last year’s Worlds when we were bottom of the leaderboard with Bracing Breeze,” said Taki.

“But we have worked hard, learned some lessons, and we were able to earn a place on the podium at the Tuscany Challenge back in April, so we are heading to Valencia in good spirits and looking forward to a great regatta.”

Immediately before the Swan One Design Worlds the Real Club Náutico de Valencia is hosting the high-profile SM La Reina Trophy regatta, which offers a great opportunity to fine-tune race crews, one which has been taken up by Worlds entries including Tenaz and the ClubSwan 42 Spirit of Nerina.

As host club the RCNV will also be the venue for many of the shoreside events during the Swan One Design Worlds.

RCNV President Marisa Arlandis said: “The whole team at the Real Club Náutico de Valencia is looking forward to welcoming the many owners and crews taking part in the Swan One Design Worlds. 

“We know that enjoying the regatta on land is just as important as the challenging racing on the water, and we are working hard and are confident we will exceed all expectations.”

And leading off the highly anticipated shoreside events at The Swan One Design Worlds is the Opening Ceremony and Cocktail Party on Tuesday 5 July – with wine provided by ClubSwan Racing Sparkling Partner Ferrari Trento – following a practice race earlier in the day.

One of the undoubted highlights of the entire event is the Owners’ Dinner on Friday 8 July which is being held at the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias – The City of Arts and Sciences – an awe-inspiring cultural and architectural complex designed by the acclaimed Valencia-born architect Santiago Calatrava.

The following evening sees the Crew Party and Prize-Giving Ceremony, again with Ferrari Trento Sparkling wines.

All the shoreside events are hosted by RCNV, and BMW will offer a courtesy car service for guests throughout the event.

The Swan One Design Worlds will see four days of racing take place from Wednesday 6 July to Saturday 9 July, with 10 races scheduled.

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A mixture of history and modernity, Barcelona is one of the most iconic and attractive cities in the world and will become the first venue in the world to host both an Olympic Games and an America’s Cup event. 

America’s Cup Defender Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton is delighted to announce Barcelona as the Host Venue after a long and competitive venue selection process. “Barcelona really is one of the most recognized cities in the world so to have the ability to host the most recognized sailing event in the world is hugely exciting. As Defender of America’s Cup, we have always felt the responsibility to grow the event, the audience, and the sport of sailing on a global scale, and certainly having the event hosted in a significant city such as Barcelona will allow us to propel the growth trajectory on the global sporting stage.

When thinking ahead to the 37th America’s Cup and the AC75’s racing within a few hundred metres of the Barcelona beach, waterfront, and race village fan engagement zones it will be nothing less than spectacular.”

Barcelona is a leading city in terms of sustainability and social impact with ambitions to become Europe’s digital and tech capital, so the alignment with America’s Cup is clear. Its existing world-class facilities for racing, team bases, technical infrastructure, superyachts, and areas for the America’s Cup event village to host fans, hospitality, and media as well as an average wind range of 9-15 knots during the September and October race window, made the city completely fit for purpose.

Barcelona’s bid saw an unprecedented alliance across public and private entities working together to attract the America’s Cup to Barcelona which included the Government of Catalonia, Barcelona City Council, City Hall of Barcelona, Port of Barcelona, Barcelona Global’s investment agency, and Barcelona & Partners, a non-profit initiative composed of more than 200 of the city’s leading institutions aiming to make Barcelona one of the world’s best cities for talent and economic activity.

The president of the Generalitat de Catalunya, Pere Aragonés, explained that the celebration of the America’s Cup in Barcelona is excellent news for the city and for the whole country, “It is a historic sporting event, which has a great projection worldwide at an international level, economically and for tourism”. “America’s Cup is not just an isolated sporting activity and offers significantly more than that to the Host Venue. It is an event that will generate a return across many platforms over years and will leave a very important legacy for Catalonia. I am very satisfied because, for the first time, America’s Cup will also include a specific Women’s America’s Cup regatta in Barcelona.”

The Mayor of the city of Barcelona, Ada Colau, celebrated the election of Barcelona as the venue for the 37th edition of America’s Cup, the oldest sailing race, “It is great news for Barcelona! This should serve to promote the city to the world after the pandemic, benefit Barcelona’s tradition of this sport in a city by the sea, and in addition, boost the emerging sector of innovation and technology, linked to nautical activities. I want to thank all the public and private institutions for their support and complicity in this project”.

Damiá Calvet, the president of the Port of Barcelona, an integral part of the successful Barcelona bid, said “We have made Port Vell available to the city and the country to be able to celebrate an America’s Cup that projects Barcelona to the world and that has innovation and sustainability as its flagship. We will make the most of the infrastructures that we already have, we will boost the economy and employment, and finally, we will leave an enduring legacy”.

A fundamental approach that not only Barcelona, but all the shortlisted venues, brought to the table was a clear ambition to partner with America’s Cup Event in delivering the best America’s Cup ever across all aspects of the Cup; infrastructure, a true partnership approach, organization and world-class facilities. Combined with their drive into a more sustainable and innovative future via hydrogen marine technology, Barcelona is the perfect place to hold the first-ever Women’s America’s Cup and the Youth America’s Cup.

As current holder and Trustee of America’s Cup, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron is looking forward to continued success for New Zealand sailing and the growth of America’s Cup and welcomes the announcement of Barcelona as the venue for the 37th America’s Cup Match. “Barcelona holds a very special place in New Zealand’s sailing history and we remember with pride the success of our 1992 Olympic Games sailing team and four medal result”, said Commodore of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Aaron Young.

“Barcelona will be a stunning venue for America’s Cup racing and the Women’s and Youth regattas, and we look forward to defending America’s Cup there in 2024 as we work to promote and grow the sport of sailing around the world. There are also significant opportunities for our New Zealand marine industry, trade, and sailors. Our members will enjoy exclusive benefits and travel options to Barcelona, and we anticipate a large delegation of Club members traveling in support of our Team in 2024”.

Integral to the organization of the 37th America’s Cup is the Challenger of Record INEOS Britannia and the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd who have played an important part in setting the foundations of the next edition of the oldest trophy in international sport. INEOS Britannia Team Principal Sir Ben Ainslie said, “We are delighted the iconic city of Barcelona has been chosen to host the 37th America’s Cup. The historic weather data for Barcelona shows what a fantastic sailing venue it will be. The marina development and race area in Barcelona will offer excellent shoreside facilities for the competing teams, alongside a great event village for fans of sports oldest international trophy to enjoy this iconic sporting event.

Further details on the venue and 37th America’s Cup will be announced in due course. “Obviously all of this news is announced in the shadow of the unfathomable war in Ukraine we are witnessing right now, which clearly puts everything in perspective for us”, said Dalton “We sincerely hope there is a rapid improvement in the situation, and we would like to send our strong message of support to the people in Ukraine during this period. We look forward to working in partnership with our Host Venue of Barcelona and announcing further details in due course.”

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From Lanzarote, it’s on to a favorite venue for the fleet – Cascais, Portugal from 11 – 15 May. At the end of July will be the 44Cup Marstrand, where the locals and sailing fans on this famous Swedish summer holiday hotspot will be rooting for Artemis Racing and her Swedish owner-driver Torbjörn Törnqvist. 

Among the enthusiastic group of owners, who remain staunchly committed to the one-design yacht there are a few changes in tactician for the 2022 season that will see fresh challenges for the fleet on well-known racecourses. 

On Peninsula Racing, British double Olympic gold medallist Giles Scott joins owner John Bassadone. Standing in for Hamish Pepper on Nico Poons’ Charisma will be fiery Italian Vasco Vascotto, while on Vladimir Prosikhin’s Team Nika Francesco Bruni will call tactics.

In mid-October, it is on to the Slovenian seaside town of Portoroz for the 2022 44Cup World Championship. The team to beat this season is Chris Bake’s Team Aqua, having won the 2021 44Cup championship for the season, the 44Cup Marstrand, and successfully defended their RC44 World Champions title in Scarlino last October. However, it won’t be easy with closest rivals Igor Lah’s Team Ceeref powered by Hrastnik 1860 and Hugues Lepic’s Aleph Racing chasing hard.

The fifth and final event of 2022 44Cup will see the fleet leave Europe for the first time since 2016 and head to the Middle East for a regatta in December. The full announcement of the final event will be made at the end of February.

44CUP 2022 event schedule 

9 – 13 February 2022 – 44Cup Calero Marinas, Lanzarote 
11 – 15 May 2022 – 44Cup Cascais, Portugal 
29 June – 3 July 2022 – 44Cup Marstrand, Sweden
12 – 16 October 2022 – 44Cup World Championship Portoroz, Slovenia 
7 – 11 December 2022 – To be announced

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