SKIPPER AUG 2015 ISSUE 9

ISSUE 9 - AUGUST 2015

ROLEX FASTNET RACE REVIEWS:

SEALINE F530 AND JEANNEAU 54

CITADEL KEELBOAT SPRING SERIES INTERVIEW:

KEN READ VOLVO OCEAN RACE:

A SPECTACULAR FINISH

EDITOR’S NOTE The sea is a mighty battleground for epic battles as well as what at first appear to be small skirmishes, but which in reality are critical to boating and sailing.

One epic battle was the final leg of the Volvo Ocean Race. After a journey of more than 38,000Nm, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, skippered

by Ian Walker, completed a Volvo Ocean Race

CONTENTS 10 READ BETWEEN THE LINES Skipper interviews one of the world’s most accomplished sailors: Ken Read.

double by winning both the offshore and inshore trophy. Only one other team, ABN Amro in 2005-6, had won both the offshore and inshore trophy in the 41-year history of the triennial event.

In this issue of Skipper, we cover another important race: the Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe, a solo-sailed race. The hardest part of this race is probably the fact that the sailors compete on the smallest offshore boats and during the race have no link to the outside world except for a

15 TAKING THE MINI TO THE MAXIMUM

This year, the Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe is celebrating its 20th edition. Skipper meets Nacho Postigo, Quentin Vlamynck and Lizzy Foreman as they prepare for the race.

VHF radio, which allows them to communicate with other boats within a restricted perimeter, and an SSB radio, which transmits the weather forecast and rankings once a day.

To better understand the passion and glory of the race but also the hardships that the competing sailors go through, we interview three

20 A CONTINENTAL DRIFT

The Volvo Ocean Race 2014-15 came to a spectacular close, with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing completing a historic double.

participants: Nacho Postigo, Quentin Vlamynck and Lizzy Foreman.

Another battle is being fought, this time on the ground rather than at sea.

Last year, the Vikings Sailing Club was evicted from its premises in Haywharf, Floriana. Months later, the club – which has been operating since 1984 – is

22 THE ROCK OF AGES

A record-breaking 63rd edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup will live long in our memory.

still without suitable premises. The club had to transfer all its equipment to an inland location and most activities have therefore been suspended.

Moreover, the alternative premises that the club has been given are derelict and, in their present state, are not suitable for the club’s activities. And

24 TAKE US TO THE BAILLI

This year’s edition of the Trophee Bailli de Suffren was a light wind race that challenged the crews.

that means that the 200 member families of the club, as well as children who used to frequent the club as part of the Skolasajf programme, cannot practise their favourite sport.

In this issue of Skipper, we cover this year’s record-breaking 63rd edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup as well as the local Citadel Keelboat Spring Series.

27 FINDING THE BEST BREEZE

Four exciting coastal races helped make the Citadel Keelboat Spring Series yet another successful event.

We also review some new and exciting models and the latest sailing and yachting equipment.

33 ALL SAILS DOWN

After being evicted from its premises last year, the Vikings Sailing Club is still homeless.

Skipper meets Commodore Gerald Portanier.

36 SPACE ON WATER

With three large cabins, two wet areas and intelligent use of space, the Sealine F530 enlarges your life.

38 THIS IS THE LIFE

The new Jeanneau 54 is designed for the way you live.

41 SAILING NEWS

The Rolex Fastnet Race celebrates its 90th anniversary as an icon of international sport.

46 GOOD TO BE GEEK

Get wired to Skipper’s gadget arsenal.

48 DECKS APPEAL

Enjoy a season of style and substance with Skipper’s summer wardrobe.

50 FISHING FOR COMPLIMENTS

When you’re at sea, nothing tastes better than fish. Skipper draws the fishing line.

Read on and enjoy.

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WELCOME This year, my season opener was the Citadel Keelboat Spring Series organised by the Vikings Sailing Club. Consisting of four coastal races held over three weekends, it was an exciting event.

Conditions were mostly fair and I enjoyed the friendly competition with the other participants – in the end, I managed to finish third overall.

However, the backdrop to the event wasn’t the most pleasant. The Vikings Sailing Club, which has been operating for the past three decades, was recently evicted from its premises in Haywharf, Floriana. Even though the club was offered alternative premises, these are in a derelict state and refurbishing them would require a substantial budget.

Moreover, the eviction means that currently, the club has had to suspend most of its operations. All its equipment is currently stored inland and using it

would constitute a logistical nightmare. The saddest part of the story is that the 200 member families of the club – including the children – cannot meet up, socialise and practise their favourite sport. I hope that a solution is found soon so that the club can resume with its sterling work.

by Matt Knighton/Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing/Volvo Ocean Race

In this issue of Skipper, we meet one of the greats: Ken Read. The American yachtsman was named US Rolex Yachtsman of the Year twice, has won races in various classes and participated in offshore classics. He has also raced the Volvo Ocean Race a number of times and this year, he will be returning to the Rolex Middle Sea Race.

We cannot wait to host this great yachtsman.

Editor Anthony P. Bernard Email: anthony@becommunications.com

In the meantime, enjoy this issue of Skipper.

Especially if you’re cruising around on your boat, sipping cocktails and just gazing at that beautiful spot where the sea meets the horizon.

Design Roderick Peresso Design Studio www.peresso.com / m. 9925 8825

Georges Bonello DuPuis

Consulting Editor Stanley Borg Email: stanley@becommunications.com Consulting (Sailing/Boating) Editor Georges Bonello DuPuis

Printing Print It Distribution Mailbox Direct Marketing Group For advertising contact Be Communications on 2134 2155 or skipper@becommunications.com

Skipper is published by BE Communications Ltd. 37, Triq Amery, Sliema, SLM 1702

by Ainhoa Sanchez/Volvo Ocean Race.

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All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in Skipper are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor and publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

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8 - Skipper / Issue 09

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Skipper / Issue 09 - 9

INTERVIEW

READ LINES BETWEEN THE

Ken Read at the 2007 Rolex Middle Sea Race, as skipper of Rambler

by Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

Skipper interviews one of the world’s most accomplished sailors: Ken Read.

K

en Read is on a roll. A well-known figure in the international sailing world, the Newportborn American sailor plans to race the major offshore races in the next few years.

Read has plenty of experience in offshore racing. He participated in the Volvo Ocean Race as part of Ericsson Racing Team and Puma Ocean Racing Team. He currently skippers Comanche. Commissioned by Jim and Kirsty Clark, the 100-ft supermaxi was designed by Verdier and VPLP and built by Hodgon Boat Yard in Maine. Comanche, which pushes the boundaries of technology, has been designed for line-honours and to set course records when conditions permit.

10 - Skipper / Issue 09

“That is my aim,” Read says. “When conditions permit, we want to set course records in prestigious yacht races all around the world.”

In fact, Comanche has just established the first speed record for Les Voiles de Saint-Barth in the Maxi 1 class. The record was set at two hours, 33 minutes and four seconds.

Les Voiles de Saint-Barth also set the scene for a battle between two sailing heavyweights: Comanche and Rambler, skippered by George David. The two boats also met at the Transatlantic Race 2015. This race, which is the oldest trans-oceanic yacht race in the world, sets a course that starts from Newport and finishes

off the Lizard, on the southwestern corner of England. This year’s edition of the Transatlantic Race was won by Lucky, skippered by Bryon Ehrhart. On board Comanche, Read managed to record the fastest monohull crossing in just seven days, 11 hours and 35 minutes.

Read doesn’t spend all of his time on board.

Occasionally, he does take a jump into the water. In fact, after the start of this year’s seventh leg of the Volvo Ocean Race in Newport, Read jumped into the water from Team Brunel. During a leg start, every Volvo Ocean Race team has one jump seat.

Given that the water temperature in Narragansett Bay was about eight degrees Celsius, Read wore a survival suit.

“I would rather sail,” Read says, referring to the jump.

Comanche, skippered by Ken Read, at the start of the 2015 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

by Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

Read is also president of the famous sail-making company North Sails.

“We’re doing very well,” Read says. “We cater for the top end of the market. In our industry, when the economy is doing well, then we also do well.”

Another record which Read still holds is that set at the 2007 Rolex Middle Sea Race on board Rambler. This year, Read will be back to race the 2015 Rolex Middle Sea Race, this time on board Comanche, and with his sights set firmly on breaking yet another record.

“When conditions permit, we want to set course records.”

Comanche leading the fleet after the start of the 70th Rolex Sydney Hobart

by Rolex/Daniel Forster.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 11

INTERVIEW

KEN READ American yachtsman Ken Read is considered to be one of the world’s most accomplished sailors.

He was named the United States Rolex Yachtsman of the Year twice, in 1985 and 1995, and has won more than 40 world, North American and national championships.

Read was helmsman aboard Dennis Conner’s Stars and Stripes America’s Cup campaigns in 2000 and 2003 and was strategist and coach with America’s Cup entry Young America in 1999.

In 2005-6, Read joined Ericsson Racing Team for the last four legs of the Volvo Ocean Race and was skipper of Puma Ocean Racing Team in the 2008-9 edition of the Volvo Ocean Race. In 2011, Read skippered Puma Ocean Racing’s entry Mar Mostro.

Read has also skippered Hanuman and Comanche various times. Read is also president of sail-making company North Sails Group.

Team Alvimedica takes Volvo Ocean Race veteran Ken Read onboard for a mentoring session prior to leaving for their second trans-Atlantic training passage from Newport, Rhode Island to Southampton, England

THE FIRST YACHT AND SUPER YACHT SYMPOSIUM On Friday, June 11, the Malta Institute of Management organised the first yacht and super yacht symposium. The extremely well attended conference brought under one roof local and foreign speakers who discussed current issues and developments in the yacht and super yacht industry.

Mr Reuben Buttigieg

In addressing the conference, the chairperson Reuben Buttigieg highlighted the significant importance of recognising the yacht and super yacht industry as a sector distinct from the maritime sector.

Key foreign speakers included Alex Cumillas Amat, manager director at Tax Marine, Spain who provided and overview of the changing EU tax landscape and how it affects the super yachts industry. The conference also included a panel discussion spearheaded by KPMG Malta with the intervention from Harry Charalambous, partner at KPMG Cyprus, Michael Grekas, senior manager at KPMG Cyprus and Romain Dayan, Avocat au Barreau des Hauts de Seine, Manager at Fidal.

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The conference included interventions from the main sponsor, Palumbo Group who provided a boatyard’s perspective of the yacht and super yacht industry as well as an overview on recent trends and developments in marketing the sector.

The conference also included an intervention from Malta’s representative for the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Anastasia Budykho who highlighted the various opportunities Russia offers in the yacht and super yacht industry. The extent of Russian investors in the sector is one which creates appetite for the Maltese industry. Ms Budhkho invited interested parties to contact her office at Portomaso in

order to tap into opportunities offered by the Russian Federation.

The Yacht and Super Yacht Symposium was concluded with and interview with the Hon. Dr Jose Herrera MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Competitiveness and Economic Growth.

Hon Herrera discussed the recently launched integrated maritime policy.

Conference sponsors included Palumbo Super Yachts, Palumbo Shipyards, EY, Erremme Business Advisors, Erremme Recruitment, Maltapoint, Tanti Dougall & Associates, Allcare Insurance Brokers and Global Capital.

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RACING

TAKING THE MINI

TO THE MAXIMUM

by Jacques Vapillon / Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe

This year, the Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe is celebrating its 20th edition. Skipper meets Nacho Postigo, Quentin Vlamynck and Lizzy Foreman as they prepare for the race.

T

says that it’s a real psychological stage that sailors have to overcome to earn their stripes. Many admit: there was definitely more than one skipper who had a breakdown before regaining their spirits.

Still, when taking part in the Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe, you can be almost certain that during three, sometimes even four or five days, you will be completely cut off from the world especially when the fleet will spread across the Atlantic. Everyone

But that is not the only challenge – the Minis are the smallest offshore sailing boats with a living surface area of 2m2. The size of the boat means that there is permanent discomfort and greater vulnerability especially when faced with difficult weather conditions. Someone only has to observe the skippers at the finish line of a trans-Atlantic crossing to understand what the solo sailors have to endure. No comfortable mattress but a rolled-up duvet in a corner of the cabin, no nice meals but

he Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe is a solo-sailed race during which there is no contact with the outside world. On board a Mini, the only link the skippers have with the outside world are a VHF radio, which allows them to communicate with other boats within a restricted perimeter, and an SSB radio set which allows them, once a day, to access the weather forecast and the rankings, emitted by the race direction.

invigorating food swallowed in a rush and no real rest in almost constant humidity.

To guarantee the sailors safety, seven support boats are part of the fleet. These boats act as an intermediary between the solo sailors and land. The sailors also benefit from the strong support of the PSP Cormoran of the Navy.

The Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe is considered to be a launch pad towards a professional sailing career. In 20 editions of the race, more than 1,200 solo skippers have passed through this initiation stage. Some of them have continued their passion in other Class 40 circuits, Figaro, IMOCA or all kinds of multi-hulls.

Others have returned to their previous lifestyles.

However, they all agree on one point: the Mini Transat changed them.

This year’s participants will depart from Douarnenez on September 19 and will make their way to Lanzarote and onwards to Guadeloupe.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 15

RACING

NACHO POSTIGO

The Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is usually considered to be an entry point for sailors who go on to have successful offshore racing careers. In your case, you already have valuable experience, including racing the America’s Cup. What inspired you to take part?

When I was a kid, I used to read about these fantastic boats and this unique race. It’s been a dream ever since. I tried to do it in 1995, but I could not close the budget to have a boat. Then in 2007 I was offered a boat but a few weeks after that happened and I had done my very first sailing with the boat, I was offered to join Team Prada for the 2009 America’s Cup so I postponed the dream once again. Finally in 2013 I said to myself: it’s now or never. I talked to my wife Ana and she gave me the thumbs up.

This year, the Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is celebrating its 20th anniversary – what does this celebration add to the race?

For me it has a very special taste: in the very first edition one boat from Santander sailed the first Mini Transat. Being here 20 years later feels like something very special.

Photo by Rolex / Matias Capizzano

What sparked your passion for sailing?

I cannot remember – I’m getting old now!

Seriously, I don’t know why but I have always had a passion for sailing even if in no one in my family sailed before me. A very close friend of mine took his first sailing course when we were 12 years old and it did not take him much effort to convince me to get mine too. Having been born in Santander where there is such a strong sailing community must have had some influence as well.

Which part of the 2,700Nm course do you consider to be the hardest?

Obviously the first leg of the race, from Douarnenez to Lanzarote – there are few nastier places than the Bay of Biscay and Finisterre, so passing that landmark is going to be a big adventure. Once that is done, life doesn’t get much easier until you get close to the Canaries, as the Portugal coast has also quite a windy reputation and the proliferation of fishing boats and fishing buoys make it tricky.

The second leg should be a pleasant one: downwind with trade winds between 15 to 25 knots, sunny and warm. At least that is what the

Do you remember your first race?

I cannot recall my first competitive race but I remember perfectly the first day I sailed on my own on an Opti. It was my very first sailing experience ever while the other kids in the group had all done a previous course. After the morning session with the coach shouting at me very often from the rib, we ran an informal race after lunch and to my surprise I was able to beat one boat. Not being last on my very first day of sailing was a good start.

What boat do you currently race?

I’m campaigning a production Mini (Series) built in Spain called Argo 650. The boat is a fantastic project from Lombard/Schipman and in my view is the best balanced boat out of the new generation of Series boats. It’s not the quickest in strong wind reaching conditions (we leave that for the Ofcet and the Pogo3), but it’s good enough in every other sailing condition, especially downwind which should be one of the most frequently sailed angles in a traditional trades route.

16 - Skipper / Issue 09

by Jacques Vapillon / Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe

brochure says, but we have to be realistic and accept that leaving Lanzarote on October 31 brings with it high chances of not having such an easy crossing: possible low latitudes lows, fronts breaking the high pressure of Azores or this high pressure in an unusual position will make a very different crossing. But in any case the second leg is the prize you get for having finished the first leg, so I will enjoy it from day one.

What boat preparations are you carrying out for the race?

I’m just trying to make the boat as strong as possible so it will not fall apart in the middle of the ocean. In any case, these boats are fantastic: they can cope with any weather and they always give you a feeling of protection. I have to be sure I press the boat enough to go fast but not so much that I break her, so we will need to find the right balance.

The Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is the longest solo race for the smallest of boats. What do you consider to be the biggest challenge?

Getting to the starting line is a great challenge in itself: you need to race 1,000 miles (at least) in class events and do a 1,000 miles qualifier course out of racing on your own. If you add to this all the deliveries you have to do when you are based in Mallorca, like I have been, by the time you get to Douarnenez the boat and skipper will have logged almost 6,000 miles, which is not too bad preparation for a 4,000-mile regatta.

That is not the only challenge: crossing the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic on a 6.5-metre boat is a big challenge, especially considering that you have no means of contacting land, no phone, no e-mails, no internet, nothing. There are so many things that can go wrong that I will feel really proud of myself if I make it to Guadeloupe sailing Vamos Vamos.

QUENTIN VLAMYNCK

What sparked your passion for sailing?

I discovered sailing at school and then with my parents. I fell in love with sailing on my very first attempt: to be alone on my little boat, to have responsibilities, take decisions and the challenge itself motivate me to sail.

Do you remember your first competitive race?

I’m not sure, but I think it was on the Biscarrosse Lake with a day-boat.

What boat do you currently race?

My Mini 6.50 is a Series boat called Zéro. The design is by Lombard and it was built by a Spanish shipyard in 2008. My sponsor has been Arkema since the beginning of the year.

by Jacques Vapillon / Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe

LIZZY FOREMAN

Which part of the 2,700Nm course do you consider to be the hardest?

For me, the harder part of this race will be the Bay of Biscay. Then I’m sure it will be amazing.

I’m not scared to be alone or to not see any boat for 15 days. I know a lot of people will be following me and that gives me courage.

The Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is usually considered to be an entry point for sailors who go on to have successful offshore racing careers. Where do you see yourself in the near future?

I’m very lucky to be part of a very small number of Mini 6.50 skippers to be paid to sail. I think the offshore race is an entire exercise. I love to be on the water and give my everything in order to be in the best group. In the future, I want to continue to sail, preferably in offshore races, alone, but in a bigger boat.

What boat preparations are you carrying out for the race?

My boat might not be the fastest but I’ve prepared it well, with new sails and rigging. Now I have to prepare my route and take care of the food.

What sparked your passion for sailing?

When I was a kid I remember being really inspired

by Pete Goss and his Team Phillips campaign.

He was to enter a Round the World sailing race onboard a 120-foot catamaran. A centre was set up in Falmouth where visitors could learn about offshore sailing – I remember climbing into a replica bunk and thinking, “This is for me.”

session at Queen Mary Sailing Club. I was about 10 years old and had always been too shy to race before. However, I plucked up the courage to leave the pontoon in my blue Topper called Sprint.

I remember zooming off downwind and opening up the self-bailer so that the boat would make its bespoke humming noise, or in other words, sing.

Later, when I was 14, I discovered Ellen MacArthur, who had just become the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe on a 75-foot trimaran B&Q in just over 71 days. At this time I had just become an assistant dinghy instructor and had been selected for the Youth Development Squad in the RS Feva dinghy.

Spending all my spare time on the water on a land-locked reservoir in London at the Queen Mary Sailing Club, with summer holidays spent drifting around Burgh Island in Devon, really instilled in me an adventurous spirit.

It has taken me 10 years and a lot of hard work to finally acquire my own boat to race, but I really hope my 2015 Mini Transat campaign is just the start of a long future in offshore sailing.

by Jacques Vapillon / Mini Transat Îles de Guadeloupe

This year, the Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is celebrating its 20th anniversary – what does this celebration add to the race?

On the starting line, you will find all types of skippers. This makes the atmosphere an exciting one and the competition thrilling. This year, the excitement will be bigger as any skipper can win in a Series or prototype boat.

Do you remember your first competitive race?

My very first race was during a youth group sailing

As the youngest sailor participating this year, do you feel added pressure?

I’m glad to be the youngest skipper. It will be my first Atlantic crossing alone and I’ll do my best to enjoy it. And if I beat a more experienced skipper than me, then it will be perfect.

When I was about 12 or 13 I started to join in club racing on Sunday mornings in my Topper.

What boat do you race?

I race in the Series division in a Pogo 2, which was built my Structures boatyard (Brittany, France) in 2005.

The Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is usually considered to be an entry point for sailors who go on to have successful offshore racing careers.

Where do you see yourself in the near future?

Competing on the mini circuit’s an excellent training ground for the bigger offshore classes. You learn a lot about seamanship, campaign management and your own strengths and weaknesses.

I’ve worked so hard over the years to finally be able to compete in this year’s Transat that I certainly do not want to stop after 2015. My objective is to race in the 2020 Vendee Globe.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 17

RACING

The biggest barrier to moving on to the bigger classes is funding – I would like to do another Transat in 2017 with a high-end prototype mini as these are basically pint sized versions of an IMOCA 60, while racing regularly in a Class 40 to compete in the 2018 Rhoute du Rhum, before a final twoyear Vendee campaign.

This year, the Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is celebrating its 20th anniversary – what does this celebration add to the race?

With the Transat celebrating its 20th year, I’m sure the finish in Guadeloupe will be quite special. It’s just a shame that the Mini Transat still does not receive a lot of coverage in the

UK, especially since the Transat was conceived by a Briton, Bob Salmon in 1977, and the first four editions started from Penzance Sailing Club in Cornwall.

Which part of the 2,700Nm course do you consider to be the hardest?

The crossing of the Bay of Biscay and the rounding of Cape Finisterre are likely to be very difficult. I remember facing winds of 38 knots on this rocky coastline as I rounded the cape during the Les Sables – Azores – Les Sables race last year. On the return leg, I broke a spreader bracket – it was quite a worry while surfing enormous waves across the Bay.

During the 2013 edition of the Transat, the fleet was actually delayed for weeks due to a depression in the Atlantic level with the Azores: this caused very strong winds and four-metre waves, which shows just how treacherous this part of the course can be.

What boat preparations are you carrying out for the race?

I have been working over the season to upgrade the boat. I have made my own sails at the Solo Sails loft in Cornwall – Woody, the owner, himself competed twice in the Transat – replaced all of my running and standing rigging with the support of English Braids and Sta-Lok, and put new deck gear onto the boat among other things.

I still need to do a complete electrical refit and replace my rudder brackets to have full confidence in the boat for the Atlantic crossing – hopefully I will be able to raise the funds in time to be able to do so.

The Mini Transat Iles de Guadeloupe is the longest solo race for the smallest of boats. What do you consider to be the biggest challenge?

Sailing solo offshore in a 21-foot boat is very extreme – obviously the more you push the boat and yourself, the more dangerous and challenging the sport becomes.

I think the biggest challenge is being able to race the boat at its optimum – racing solo, it’s very difficult to rest effectively while keeping the boat powered up all the time. Often the conditions can become too rough for the pilot to manage, so if you want to keep going fast, you’ve got to stay awake!

Taking the best route is also a massive challenge in itself. We are only allowed a GPS (with no cartography) – we cannot use weather routing software, and only receive the weather forecast over an SSB radio. The forecast can be very difficult to understand as it’s not easy to pick up a good signal and it’s only read out once a day, at 7am. I had better not sleep through the alarm clock.

by Christophe Breschi

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18 - Skipper / Issue 09

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RACING

A CONTINENTAL

by David Ramos/Volvo Ocean Race

The Volvo Ocean Race 2014-15 came to a spectacular close, with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing completing a historic double.

20 - Skipper / Issue 09

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he Volvo Ocean Race drama ended in Sweden as Team Brunel emerged victorious in Gothenburg in the final inport race. Behind Team Brunel, Mapfre outwitted Team Alvimedica in the final few moments to clinch second place. Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing earned the six points they needed to win the overall in-port race series by edging out lastplaced Team Vestas Wind.

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing therefore completed a Volvo Ocean Race double, winning the offshore and inshore trophy. Only one other team, ABN Amro in 2005-6, had won both the offshore and inshore trophy in the 41-year history of the triennial event.

It has been a long journey for all the teams. The Volvo Ocean Race 2014-15 took off last October, when the seven teams competed in the first in-port race in Alicante. A journey of more than 38,000Nm later and stops on every continent, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, skippered by Ian Walker, triumphed.

Abu Dhabi Racing Team also won other awards.

Simon Fisher, navigator for the team, won the B&G Navigators’ Prize: the award is presented to the navigator who made the most effective use of meteorological, oceanographic and geographical information to gain distance on the majority of the fleet, as voted for by the navigators themselves.

Matt Knighton, also of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, won the award for best reporter.

by Carlo Borlenghi/Volvo Ocean Race

by Stefan Coppers/Team Brunel/Volvo Ocean Race

by Victor Fraile/Volvo Ocean Race

VOLVO OCEAN RACE 2014-15 Final Standings

by Ainhoa Sanchez/Volvo Ocean Race

1st

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing

2nd

Team Brunel

3rd

Dongfeng Race Team

4th

Mapfre

5th

Team Alvimedica

6th

Team SCA

7th

Team Vestas Wind

Skipper / Issue 09 - 21

RACING

THE

OF AGES A record-breaking 63rd edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup will live long in our memory.

Artie during the first inshore race in 2012

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he Giraglia Rolex Cup has run uninterruptedly since 1953 when it was created to build sporting friendship between France and Italy. A prevailing sense of camaraderie has always defined the competition. Partnered

by Rolex since 1998, the offshore race is the Mediterranean’s oldest and has a proud history.

“During the final prizegiving in Monte Carlo last year, I referred to the Giraglia as like being the old lady of sailing. The race has a unique atmosphere and has seen everything over its 63-year history, from great champions and great personalities from around the world. Nothing can surprise the old lady any more,” explained Carlo Croce, President of both race organisers the Yacht Club Italiano and the International Sailing Federation.

Even as this year’s edition of the 243Nm offshore race from Saint-Tropez, France to Genoa, Italy started on Wednesday, June 17, the event was creating a new milestone. The 240 starters represented a race record, surpassing the figure of 220 entrants set in 2010. The total number of participants for the week’s activities is even more impressive with nearly 280 yachts having contested either the race from Sanremo to Saint-

22 - Skipper / Issue 09

Tropez, the three days of inshore racing on the Côte d’Azur, or the offshore race.

Yachts from 17 countries and territories competed in the offshore race, a demonstration of the race’s burgeoning international reputation.

The list of international sailors included Australia’s Adrienne Cahalan, a 23-time veteran of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, competing in the race for the first time as navigator on the 100ft Maxi Esimit Europa 2.

Contrary to early forecasts, the 2015 Giraglia Rolex Cup turned out to be a big boat race. It was a light air edition, especially for the majority of the fleet who took 48-60 hours to complete the race.

The frontrunners arrived after around 30 hours at sea, late afternoon on Thursday. Sir Lindsay OwenJones’s Magic Carpet Cubed finished second on the water, finishing 65 minutes behind line honours winner Esimit Europa 2.

On arrival, Owen-Jones’s thoughts were fixed on the disappointment of missing out on line honours. An impressive leg from the Giraglia rock to Genoa had allowed his crew to close the gap on Esimit but not sufficiently to mount a challenge to be first over the line.

by Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

As the fading breeze on the notorious approach to Genoa destroyed the chances of overall victory for the much-fancied Maxi 72s, Magic Carpet installed as leader on handicap. The fleet further behind would suffer the same fate and it quickly became apparent that Owen-Jones had guided his Wally Cento to an unprecedented and unexpected success: within a day, the disappointment of losing out on line honours was replaced by the joy of overall victory.

Owen-Jones cut an ecstatic figure at the final prizegiving held at the Yacht Club Italiano in Genoa.

“We are delighted with this victory. After 15 years of trying, and having won line honours two years ago, we had almost given up winning this title.

This is a lovely, fun race to do, the crew all love it.

It’s full of unknowns.”

“It was a tough race,” confirmed skipper Jochen Schümann. “We had a very good strategy and weather model which matched the conditions quite well. The first part to the Giraglia Rock was very good for us and we had a very good lead over Magic Carpet. At the rock we got stuck and struggled for a while when there was no wind and they closed in until we stretched more towards the

A MALTESE PRESENCE

Lee Satariano recalls his participation at the 2012 Giraglia Rolex Cup.

Magic Carpet

by Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

I participated in the 2012 Giraglia Rolex Cup, both offshore from Sanremo to St Tropez, which was a night race, as well as great inshore races.

On board Artie J122, I had with me a crew made up of Christian Ripard, Peter Valentino, Jan Rossi, Matthew Gusman, John Cachia, Sam Pizzuto and Kurt Casapinta.

Being the Mediterranean’s oldest offshore race, the Giraglia Rolex Cup has a great history. There is also the beautiful setting, an exciting dockside atmosphere and keen competitive spirit.

Competition is always tough and the northwest wind adds excitement to the race. For me, the toughest part of the race is the downwind leg to the Giraglia Rock. It’s also a spectacular route.

Hopefully, I will participate in another edition soon.

GIRAGLIA ROLEX CUP 2015 RESULTS IRC Overall 1st

Magic Carpet Cubed

Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones

2nd

Give Me Five

Adrien Follin

3rd

Esimit Europa 2

Igor Simčič

Line honours winner Esimit Europa 2

(29 hours, 11 minutes and 58 seconds)

Giraglia Rolex Cup Inshore Series (Saint-Tropez) Shockwave sailing past the Giraglia Rock

by Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

end of the race. Being in control from the beginning was key to us doing what we wanted to do.”

Five Maxi 72s made up the fleet and with their IRC handicap so similar they were effectively sailing onedesign. For a period it seemed whoever emerged from this group of boats would become the handicap winner. As light faded on Thursday evening, and with the Maxi 72s approaching Genoa, so did their hopes of overall victory. The wind shut down, with the leading yacht Robertissima III forced to park.

Caol Ila R, Momo and Jethou looked to have had their moment but it was George Sakellaris’s Shockwave, the oldest of the quintet which ghosted through to win this race within a race.

Italian yachtsman Pierpaolo Ballerini added his name to the Giraglia Rolex Cup record books becoming the first ever solo sailor to complete the race. Sailing the 33-ft Azurre, Ballerini completed the race in a little over 50 hours, seeing off his two solo rivals to take class glory and write his name in Giraglia Rolex Cup history.

IRC 0: Caol Ila

Alexander Schaerer

IRC A: B2

Michele Galli

IRC B: Dare Dare

Christophe Bru

ORC A: Bewild

Renzo Grotteschi

ORC B: Overdose Bravo

Luc Baradat

“Within a day, the disappointment of losing out on line honours was replaced by the joy of overall victory.”

Skipper / Issue 09 - 23

RACING

TAKE US TO THE

Bailli

This year’s edition of the Trophee Bailli de Suffren was a challenging, light wind race that tested the crews.

by Maccione

24 - Skipper / Issue 09

B

ack in 2001, three friends conceived a grand 21st century sailing tradition for classic yachts: a rally of special friends, old and new. Covering 630Nm from Saint-Tropez to Grand Harbour Marina in Malta, and visiting four of the most exotic ports in the Mediterranean, that event is the Trophée Bailli du Suffren.

The Mediterranean’s most beautiful yacht race is also its longest race for classic yachts. Now in its 14th edition, the Trophée Bailli du Suffren is run over three legs. The first leg, which is 193Nm

long, takes the participants from Saint-Tropez to Porto Rotondo in Sardinia. The second leg departs from Porto Rotondo to Castellammare del Golfo in Sicily, a 240Nm course. The third and final leg covers the 197Nm from Castellammare del Golfo to the Grand Harbour in Malta.

The event takes its name as well as its start and finish locations from the 18th century French admiral Pierre Andre de Suffren de Saint-Tropez. The admiral spent his early career in Malta, where he received the title of Bailli de Suffren from the Knights of St John.

“This proved to be a challenge for the crews’ light wind skills and mental fortitude.”

Known among his sailors and his enemies as Admiral Satan, this formidable seafarer enjoys a reputation in his native France that is comparable to Horatio Nelson’s in Britain. His statue stands on the quay in Saint-Tropez, and yachts compete for the overall prize, which is the Sword of Honour of Admiral Satan.

Camper & Nicholsons is proud to sponsor the Trophée Bailli du Suffren and to welcome the fleet to Grand Harbour Marina.

This year’s edition marked the 14th anniversary from the launch of this prestigious yacht race. The edition was a light wind affair for almost the entire course – this proved to be a challenge for the crews’ light wind skills and mental fortitude.

In the end, it was Lelantina, captained by Patrick Gibert, which was declared winner and received the coveted sword of Admiral Satan. The award ceremony took place at the historic Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 25

NEWS

FINDING THE BEST BREEZE

Four exciting coastal races helped make the Citadel Keelboat Spring Series yet another successful event.

T

he Vikings Sailing Club Spring Series for Keelboats was held once again. And even although the club may be lacking suitable premises, the event was yet another success.

The Spring Series was made up of four coastal races, held over three weekends between the end of May and mid-June.

RACE 1

SATURDAY MAY 30

This race set the pace for the whole series with an excellent turnout of seven boats making it to the start line.

Conditions were light – however the steady breeze made it interesting for the crews to fine-tune their settings to get the best out of their boats. A wind shift between the start and the first mark made it even more difficult for the leading boats Escape, skippered by Georges Bonello DuPuis, and L’Artista, skippered by Anton Calleja as suddenly they found themselves on the wrong tack and losing most of the ground they had gained.

Once rounded the Fairway Buoy, the wind

remained steady and it was a pleasant upwind leg to Munxar Cardinal Mark which was rounded first by Escape. However the downwind leg saw the lighter boats led by Time Out and L’Artista charge down and gain time on Escape.

In the end Escape crossed the line first, with Time Out only five seconds behind. However on corrected time Time Out skippered by Mario Sant was first, second was L’Artista skippered by Anton Calleja and Kartali skippered by Gerald Portanier a surprise third.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 27

NEWS

RACE 2

SUNDAY MAY 31

A day later and lighter winds made it even more challenging for the competing boats to find the best breeze and take advantage of shifting winds. Race control decided to shuffle the cards by sending the boats on a shortened course from the start line at Marsamxett to

RACE 3

round the only mark of the course at Ghallis Cardinal Mark.

However this time round the wind picked up on the leg back to the finish line where Georges Bonello DuPuis in his Beneteau First 47.7

Escape charged ahead and crossed the line just under two minutes ahead of Anton Calleja in his Beneteau First 35 L’Artista, followed closely by Mario Sant in his Elan 36 Time Out. On corrected time L’Artista was first, Time Out second and Escape third.

MONDAY JUNE 1

All boats started regularly from the start line laid down between the tip of Valletta and Tigne for this coastal race. This was to take the competitors up north to round once again the Lasis Cardinal mark before making their way back to the finish line.

As the boats make their way up to the mark the wind just died down and eventually all boats retired, leaving Mario Sant on Time Out and Anton Calleja on L’Artista still tied on first place overall.

RACE 4

SUNDAY JUNE 14

The last race of the series and it was still anybody’s guess who would win top spot. The steady northwest breeze and longer course laid out ensured it would be an evenly fought out race.

All eyes were on Mario Sant and Anton Calleja, skippers of Time Out and L’Artista respectively, as they manoeuvred their boats to get in the best position for the start. However a judgement error by L’Artista during the last minute before the start gave the advantage to Time Out. Escape, skippered by Georges Bonello DuPuis

took advantage of the stronger breeze and crossed the finish line just under 10 minutes ahead of Time Out to ensure that this time DuPuis also remained in first place even after corrected time.

OVERALL RESULTS 1st

Time Out skippered

by Mario Sant

Time Out skippered by Mario Sant and his welloiled crew kept their advantage over L’Artista and crossed the line second with enough gap to ensure they remained second on corrected time and win the series.

2nd

L’Artista skippered

by Anton Calleja

3rd

Escape skippered

by Georges Bonello DuPuis

A SEA OF TIME Rolex recently unveiled its latest showstopping timepiece: the new black and 18ct Everose gold version of its celebrated nautical Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master.

The Yacht-Master, which was first introduced in 1992, is considered a reference among nautical watches, and it embodies the longterm ties between Rolex and the world of

28 - Skipper / Issue 09

sailing. This latest version was unveiled in Basel and is fitted exclusively with Rolex’s innovative and patented Oysterflex bracelet.

It is also equipped with a rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel, raised numerals, the Chroma light display, self-winding mechanical movements, and a robust Oyster case.

The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master is exclusively available at the Edwards Lowell boutiques in Valletta and St Julian’s.

For more information call on 2138 4503 or 2124 7447.

PROMO

MSIDA AND TA’ XBIEX MARINA SECURE, CENTRAL, WELCOMING

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ituated in the sheltered heart of Msida Creek, and with the historic capital city of Valletta as a backdrop, surrounded by embassies and sleek modern apartments and close to the shops and nightlife of Sliema and St Julian's, the Msida and Ta' Xbiex Marina makes an ideal base for cruising the Mediterranean this summer.

SUMMER BERTHING Whether visiting the Maltese Islands, moored on a buoy in a bay and needing to charge batteries and

30 - Skipper / Issue 09

provision for a long voyage, berthing a day boat, or just topping-up water tanks, Creek Developments Plc has a tailor-made solution for you. Long-term summer berths are available for boats of up to 8m LOA and 3m beam on Pieta Quay.

Short-term berths are available throughout the marina in addition to the dedicated guest berths on the breakwater. Pre-booked yachts benefit from being met by the 24-hour Marina Assistants, guided to a reserved berth, and provided with immediate access to utilities.

CREEK DEVELOPMENTS PLC MSIDA & TA’ XBIEX MARINAS For further information and reservations, contact us on: Creek Developments Plc 53/1, Ta'Xbiex Seafront, Msida, MSD 1515 Tel: +356 2133 7049, E-mail: info@creekdevelopments.com Web: www.marinamalta.com

ALL SAILS

SAILING

ALL SAILS

DOWN

After being evicted from its premises last year, the Vikings Sailing Club is still homeless.

Skipper meets Commodore Gerald Portanier.

by Jamie Iain Genovese

T

he project to upgrade the Armed Forces of Malta base in Haywharf, Floriana, has attracted plenty of press, mostly aesthetic judgements on how the design of the EU-funded project doesn’t converse with its historic surroundings.

But beyond these arguments, one consequence of the Armed Forces upgrading project has been the eviction of the Vikings Sailing Club from its premises in Haywharf.

“Contrary to what some commented, we were never squatters at Haywharf,” says Commodore Gerald Portanier. “The club, which has been operating since 1984, took over the Haywharf building 10 years ago following a parliamentary vote that was approved unanimously.”

The alternative premises offered to the Vikings Sailing Club

Although the club’s lease on the Haywharf premises had another six years to run, the club was served with an eviction notice in July 2014. It was given until October 25 to vacate the premises.

With the help of the Armed Forces, the club transferred its equipment – including 24 sailing boats, three rescue boats and other ancillary equipment – to the Ospizio in Floriana.

“We couldn’t appeal or do anything about this decision as the Armed Forces quoted the National Security Law,” says Vice Commodore Mike Fenech.

“The Ospizio is far from the sea and we cannot put our equipment to good use,” says Portanier.

“Last year, we bought eight new boats – they are now laying idle at the Ospizio.”

The club has been given alternative premises, directly behind the old Haywharf clubhouse.

“However, these alternative premises are derelict and are definitely not in safe conditions,” says Portanier. “Such is their state that the premises will probably have to be pulled down and rebuilt. The whole refurbishment would costs thousands of euros. These are funds which

Skipper / Issue 09 - 33

SAILING

“These alternative premises are derelict and are definitely not in safe conditions.” we don’t have. First of all, the club is run by volunteers, and secondly, the little income that we had from the pontoons has run dry because the pontoons are in storage.”

Apart from the cost of the refurbishment, the alternative premises are also not ideal for the club’s purposes.

“We still need a slipway to operate, because the ones on site – including the one we had – are now used for other purposes,” says Fenech.

With more than 200 member families, the Vikings Sailing Club was a gathering point for hundreds of boat enthusiasts, young and adult alike. The club used to organise regular activities, including children’s training courses as part of the Skolasajf programme, open race days, dinghy regattas and social gatherings.

34 - Skipper / Issue 09

“Following the eviction, the club has suspended its operations indefinitely,” says Portanier. “The only event that we organised was the Citadel Spring Series for Yachts. We managed to organise this without premises from where to operate. However, the less we operate, the more our members will join alternative clubs. We don’t have any rivalry with other clubs – however, in Malta, every club is specialised and no other local club offers what we used to.

“I especially feel sorry for the children who are missing out on practising their favourite sport,” says Portanier.

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT 29 · 32 · 35 SQ · 38 · 42 · 46

Y

Yachting Partners Malta Ltd. • Pieta • Tel +356 9949 4685 • info@ypm.com.mt

dehler.com

BOATS

SPACE ON WATER With three large cabins, two wet areas and intelligent use of space, the Sealine F530 enlarges your life.

T

his summer promises to be more exciting than you ever thought possible as we enjoy a first look at the new Sealine F530.

Following the successful models Sealine S330 and Sealine C330, which were presented last year and have already sold in impressive numbers, the new Sealine design is now being continued in the over 50-ft size class. The result is the Sealine F530.

The new Sealine F530 is expanding the product range and not only marks the next

36 - Skipper / Issue 09

stage in the restructuring of the Sealine models, but also stands for the implementation of new ideas in general. The Sealine F530 is also setting innovative trends in the key areas of design, function, technology, performance, luxury and safety.

The F530 has a length of 15.94m and a width of 4.63m. The model is equipped with three large cabins and two wet areas with a separate shower. The F530 is powered by two Volvo IPS 600 engines as standard or two Volvo IPS 700 or

IPS 800 engines, which are available as optional as from 2016.

Drawn by world-renowned designer Bill Dixon, this flybridge yacht impresses with a level of comfort that is usually only found on yachts over 60ft.

This is a yacht for the whole family and both the exterior and interior have the typical Sealine character. The modern, powerful hull has enormous windows that let ample light in

“The flybridge is the largest in its class, making optimal use of the space with maximum comfort.�

the saloon and cabins and give the yacht the typical Sealine look. The impressive saloon windows are 3.90m long and 1.70m high.

Optional doors in the side windows provide an exit onto the side deck.

Very intelligent use is made of the available space. For instance, a large U-shaped sofa in the saloon can be converted into two opposite sofas, opening up access to the side doors and providing a breathtaking panoramic view from standing position. On the foredeck, the cozy sitting corner with lowering table can be transformed into a generously sized sun lounger.

The vertical wings on the coaming edge broaden the flybridge towards the aft and increase the size of the covered cockpit area.

The flybridge is the largest in its class, making optimal use of the space with maximum comfort. The F530 also comes with an optional hardtop on the fly or a classic bimini.

The performance of the F530 ensures 30 per cent less fuel consumption and 50 per cent lower noise level, while giving you 40 per cent longer range. The twin counter-rotating propellers face forward and work in undisturbed water. The propeller thrust is parallel with the hull. All power drives the boat forward and all exhaust fumes are emitted through the pods, into the prop wash and carried well behind the boat for improved

onboard comfort. The propellers are positioned well under the hull to eliminate the risk of air intrusion and cavitation, even in sharp turns and under full acceleration.

The forward-facing propellers, with no exhausts through the hub, minimise the hub diameter. This gives a proportionally much larger active blade area, and better grip in the water.

For more information call 2125 2727 or visit www.yachtingpartners.com.mt

TECHNICAL DETAILS LOA: 15.94m Beam: 4.63m Draft: 1.01m Fuel capacity: 1600l Water capacity: 766l Max people on board: 12

Skipper / Issue 09 - 37

REVIEW

THIS IS THE E

Life

very aspect of the Jeanneau 54 is all new and designed to fit the way you live, like no other yacht in its class. Never before seen solutions are found throughout, from the clever VIP interior layout to the spacious living cockpit and the easy and discreet management of the tender and the innovative aft terrace. Every detail and function has been considered to enhance life onboard and the cruising experience.

The Jeanneau 54 is born from the close collaboration of Philippe Briand, whose chined

38 - Skipper / Issue 09

The new Jeanneau 54 is designed for the way you live.

hull and elegant deck profile ensure seaworthy handling and timeless looks, and Andrew Winch’s meticulous approach to every ergonomic detail and the selection of high-end materials that echo the look and feel of his super yacht pedigree.

There has never been a yacht like the Jeanneau 54. On deck, the sunbed is integrated into foredeck with retractable bimini provides a quiet place for reading and relaxing. The large, double anchor rollers ensure maximum security and ease of handling while direct access to the anchor

locker from the deck provides extra storage and visual check of rode when anchoring.

The Jeanneau 54 boasts the longest cockpit in its class. The armchair seating with integrated cup holders ensure fantastic views and comforts all the while within the area protected by the sprayhood. The innovative, patented, aft terrace with integrated sun lounger seats offers a comfortable space to relax and exceptional access to the water from a wide, inclined bathing ladder.

“The Jeanneau 54 boasts the longest cockpit in its class.”

The design is dedicated to safety first and includes easy deployment of the life raft from the back of the table without the need to lift it or open the transom. The retractable davits allow for easy tender handling of a proper tender without taking up interior space and, best of all, they disappear when not in use.

The Jeanneau 54 makes for an unforgettable experience, every time. All winches are set together at the aft end of the cockpit ensuring easy sail management from a dedicated location and keeps the rest of the cockpit clear.

Multiple sail plans means the yacht can be adapted to every sailing preference and cruising location. Everything, from self-tacking jibs to Park Avenue booms, is available. The easy to reach throttle and inclined engine panel provide easy motoring and manoeuvring while 360 docking is available with electronic throttle and pivoting pod drive for the ultimate in manoeuvrability.

The layout is designed to enhance life on board.

The owner’s cabin has a walk-in shower and an ensuite washroom that is finished with the same flooring as the cabin. And when sitting on the bed, you can view the sea thanks to the forward positioning of the large hull ports.

The galley has exceptional storage with under-floor bins, long drawers and room for household sized appliances – this brings the

comfort of home to long-distance cruising.

The VIP cabin is truly unique. Generous in size, the headroom over the berth means your guests can sleep comfortably. Guests can also enjoy views of the sea from the bed as well as a private, ensuite washroom with separate shower compartment.

For more information, contact FL Yachting on info@flyachting.com

Skipper / Issue 09 - 39

I M P R E S S I O N

35 | 40 | 45 | 50

Impression Yachts: t h e o n l y co m p l e te ra n g e o f d e c k s a l o o n ya c h t s .

In line with Impression’s commitment to deliver the best sailing experience with every model, every time, the new Impression 40 is an impressively fast cruiser. www.impressionyachts.com

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Impression40_F14_185x130_Malta.indd 1

27/03/15 09.22

NEWS

SAILING NEWS The Rolex Fastnet Race celebrates its 90th anniversary as an icon of international sport.

T

his year heralds a proud moment for the Rolex Fastnet Race. This famous offshore classic celebrates its 90th anniversary and the two yacht clubs deeply associated with the competition, both long-term partners of race sponsors Rolex, toast their own significant milestones.

After 90 years of exploits and triumph, the race remains an icon of international sport.

Anticipation for the 2015 edition, which starts from Cowes on Sunday, August 16, has been heightened by the anniversaries and the prospect of several new high-profile entrants.

Entries for the 2015 Rolex Fastnet – the 46th edition of this biennial event – filled within an astonishing 24 minutes. A fleet of around 350 international yachts are expected to participate, with a potentially record number of race starters.

Iromiguy leaving the Fastnet Race

by Rolex/Daniel Forster

Featuring yachts from over 20 countries, the entry list is as always both international and diverse.

Mighty multihulls, including Spindrift, multihull line honours winner in 2013, and some of the world’s most impressive 100ft monohulls, comprising Jim Clark’s recently launched Comanche, which made an impressive debut at the 2014 Rolex Sydney Hobart, will set the pace in the quest to grab the laurels as the fastest boats.

The likes of George David’s new 88-ft Rambler and Maxi 72s Bella Mente and Jethou will represent the best in professional sailing talent

while the core of the fleet will be the hundreds of Corinthian crews for whom the race is a personal challenge, a rite of passage, and an opportunity to win one of the biggest prizes on the international yachting stage.

The Royal Ocean Racing Club was founded directly after the first Fastnet Race in 1925. The club has grown into a global leader in ocean racing and organises the Rolex Fastnet Race, held biennially since 1931 (except for a break between 1939 and 1947), with diligence and authority.

A partner club of Rolex since the 1990s, its contribution to this segment of yachting is

Skipper / Issue 09 - 41

NEWS

admired both inside and outside the sport and Rolex is proud to enjoy a privileged relationship with one of the sport’s true influencers.

The Rolex Fastnet Race starts from in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes, and has done so each year since 1949. The sight of some 350 yachts spread between the Isle of Wight and the mainland, all preparing for the start of a great offshore race is a spectacular moment attracting crowds on the shore and the water all the way west to The Needles.

The Squadron, as it is universally known, is one of the world’s oldest yacht clubs, and 2015 marks its bicentennial. The club has a huge pedigree within yachting, and its preeminent status is founded on a mix of exclusivity, tradition and active, influential organisation.

The Rolex Fastnet racecourse is fabled and when the British Isles weather delivers the conditions typical of the time of year it is a test of human endeavour. The 603Nm course takes the intrepid fleet from Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, around the Fastnet Rock off the South West coast of Ireland and back to Plymouth. It is a complete challenge, testing all aspects of

42 - Skipper / Issue 09 CAN113 GHM A5L_133x190 advert_V1.indd CAN113 GHM 1A5L_133x190 advert_V1.indd

Esimit Europa 2 leading the fleet on the second day

by Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

yacht racing including manoeuvres, tactics and strategy, along with preparation, endurance and determination. Like all great ocean races, the Rolex Fastnet Race has a symbol. The

1

Fastnet Rock, located on the southern tip of Ireland, is a mesmerising sight for sailors. On rounding it, the fleet begins its return passage to the finish in Plymouth.

06/12/2012 19:39

06/12/2012 19:39

Pascal and Alexis Loison are the defending champions on Night and Day. In 2013 they made history in becoming the first double-handed crew to win outright the Rolex Fastnet Race.

An outstanding achievement considering the might of the competition the duo faced and the extreme demands on physical and mental resources such a race poses. The Loisons return this year, and any hope of repeating their success will be tempered by realism. Only three crews – Myth of Malham (1949), Carina (1957) and Rån 2 (2011) have successfully defended the Fastnet Challenge Trophy since World War II.

Vanuden sailing with dolphins

by Rolex/Daniel Forster

Competing in the Rolex Fastnet means different things to the more than 3,000 different people who will be on board the 350 yachts entered this year. For some it is a once-in-a-lifetime personal challenge, for others it is part of a much bigger picture, part of a lifetime of sailing. It is never just another race. It is not to be undertaken lightly and each boat and crew must meet strictly applied entry regulations before being accepted.

"It's one of the best events I've ever been to," said James Madden, owner of Swan 601 Stark Raving Mad.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 43

CLASSIFIEDS

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44 - Skipper / Issue 09

Bavaria 37. Asking price: €50,000, VAT paid.

Engine: Volvo MD2030 30hp. Features Include hood gennaker, autopilot with remote control, Elvstrom Hi-Tech Sails, tridata and wind gauge, GPS navigation system, radar, CD player with inside and outside speakers, cockpit shower, 3 batteries, plough anchor, spare anchor, electric bilge pump, cockpit table with insulated ice box, life jackets, life raft, tender, Suzuki outboard and much more. Boatcare Trading Ltd., T: 2138 8050, info@boatcarelimited.com, www.boatcarelimited.com

Zodiac Pro Open 650. Asking price: €28,750, VAT paid. Engine: Evinrude Etec 175hp.

Features include 3 Evinrude engine icommand multifunction displays, Viper stainless steel prop, anchor with 5m chain and 30m rope, Ray55E VHF radio, Furuno GPS, 60ltr fresh water tank, automatic shower pump and variable flow shower, 110ltr plastic composite fuel tank, 2 Blue Ocean LED underwater lights, full set of navigation lights and much more. Boatcare Trading Ltd., T: 2138 8050, info@boatcarelimited.com, www.boatcarelimited.com

Fairline Targa 38 Asking price: €330,000. Engine: 2x Volvo Penta D6 370Hp EVC. Features include air-conditioning, domestic appliance pack with ceramic hob, microwave oven, cockpit bar/ refrigerator, 4kw Onan generator, Garmin GPS map 4008 (8'') display to helm, Garmin GHP 10 auto pilot, folding teak cockpit table with sun bed conversion and cantilever arm for storage, BBQ griddle in cockpit, mains voltage, teak-laid cockpit floor, hydraulic submersible bathing platform, bed conversion to saloon settee, bow truster 6hp and much more. Boatcare Trading Ltd., T: 2138 8050, info@boatcarelimited.com, www.boatcarelimited.com

Kalkara Wharf, Kalkara KKR 1501 Tel: 2166 1306, 2766 1306. Fax: 2169 0420 | Mob: 9942 5999, 7905 2471, 9944 9592 Berthing Assistance: 9968 9794 (24hrs) Email: info@kalkaraboatyard.com.mt, kalkaramarina@gmail.com www.kalkaraboatyard.com.mt

Skipper / Issue 09 - 45

GADGETS

GOOD TO BE GEEK

Get wired to Skipper's gadget arsenal.

SHAKE THE ROOM

FASHION SHOOT

Designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, the Binauric Boom Boom speaker has Bluetooth connectivity and offers 15 hours of playback time.

Compatible with most smartphones and tablets.

The Moncler special edition of the Leica X was used by art and editorial director Fabien Baron to shoot a series of photographs in Greenland. The photographs were shown at the 2014 Frieze London art fair.

PLAY THE GAME

VIRTUAL REALITY ON A BUDGET

The Nexus Player is a set-top streamer that runs on Google’s Android TV platform. You can use it to watch television, play games and surf the web. The player also combines voice search, YouTube integration and Google Cast.

You would think that it costs a lot of money to experience virtual reality. In most cases it does. But with Google Cardboard, it’s cheap and cheerful. Just fold it and explore a variety of apps.

46 - Skipper / Issue 09

THE BIG SQUEEZE The SanDisk Ultra Fit can squeeze 128GB of flash storage into an external drive that is as small as a thumbnail. This is a significant capacity-to-size breakthrough and comes particularly handy for when travelling.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC Bowers & Wilkins have collaborated with Maserati to produce the limited-release P5 Maserati Edition headphones. The two brands’ passion for engineering excellence and technological innovation in one product.

GET THE ACTION The Monoprice MHD Sport 2.0 WiFi action camera can shoot in full HD and can take shots up to 16MP. Also comes with a wrist remote.

IT’S TIME The Pebble Time smartwatch uses Android to give you notifications, depending on your installed apps. Simple and understated, the Pebble Time smartwatch is also waterproof up to 30m.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 47

FASHION

DECKS APPEAL

Enjoy a season of style and substance with Skipper's summer wardrobe.

Top hat Nothing says summer like a straw hat: cue lazy days soaking up the sun. This version by Paul Smith is finished with a navy blue cotton band.

Wave hello Printed with Missoni’s signature zigzag pattern, these midlength swim shorts come with a multitude of pockets and full mesh lining. Practical and stylish.

48 - Skipper / Issue 09

Roll up your sleeves Cut from silky satin twill, this Blue Blue Japan shirt gives your wardrobe a retro, throwback vibe.

Up your sleeve The Jil Sander Empoli jacket is cleverly layered to give the impression of two styles in one. The top section makes for a smart, tailored look while the internal lining is sportier and more informal.

Shirts on This classic polo by Bottega Veneta is made from cotton-pique and features the label’s iconic butterfly emblem embroidered on the chest.

Orange is the new black Make a statement with this pair of orange Davis chinos by Club Monaco.

In Print Burberry Prorsum takes inspiration from vintage book covers to create this distinctive t-shirt.

Best foot forward Boat shoes are essential in a sailor’s summer wardrobe. Crafted in England, John Lobb’s boat shoes contrast smooth light-blue leather with white stitching. A perfect match with dark chinos or white shorts.

Sneak in Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato leather sneakers fuse luxurious and casual styling. Put them on and rush off like a summer breeze.

Pat on your back Crafted from black leather with a butterysoft handle, this Phileas backpack by Balenciaga is sleek and minimalist. Invisible fastenings and discreet hardware add to the understated finish.

Skipper / Issue 09 - 49

FOOD

FISHING FOR

COMPLIMENTS When you’re at sea, nothing tastes better than fish. Skipper draws the fishing line.

Spaghetti with sea urchins

Mackerel fish cakes

You need

You need

400gr spaghetti

300gr mashed potatoes

100gr sea urchins

6 spring onions, sliced

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1tbsp horseradish sauce

1 small onion, chopped 4tbsp olive oil Plum tomatoes, blanched, peeled and chopped 3tsp flat leaf parsley, chopped Salt and pepper

Method In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic. Add the tomatoes. In the meantime, boil the pasta. When ready, toss the pasta in the sauce, add the sea urchins and season. Sprinkle with the parsley, toss again and serve.

250gr mackerel fillets, skinned and flaked 2tbsp plain flour 1 egg, beaten 85gr breadcrumbs Sunflower oil, for frying Salad and lemon wedge, for serving

Oriental cod

Method Mix together the potato, spring onions, horseradish and mackerel. Shape into even-size cakes. Roll the fish cakes in the flour, shake off any excess, and dip in the egg and then in the breadcrumbs. Heat some oil in a frying pan and fry the cakes gently until crunchy and golden brown. Serve with salad and lemon wedge.

You need 85gr baby corn 85gr shiitake mushrooms, halved 2 cod fillets 2tsp dark soy sauce 1tbsp rice wine 1tbsp honey 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced ½ red chilli, thinly sliced 1 piece fresh root ginger, thinly sliced 2 pak choy, halved

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Method Place the corn and mushrooms at the bottom of a steamer and place the cod on top. Mix the soy, rice wine and honey with the garlic, chilli and ginger and spoon half of the mixture over the fish. Place the pak choy over the fish and drizzle with the remaining mixture. Steam until the cod is ready and serve.

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE | DESIGN

OU T NOW

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE | DESIGN

THE REAL ESTATE AND TOURISM ISSUE ISSUE 31

CHARLES BUHAGIAR:

MONITORING THE BUILDING INDUSTRY URBAN SPACES

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