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The ClubSwan Season is on

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:42:31 +0000

The 2026 edition of The Nations League opens this week with the Swan Bonifacio Challenge and the USA League Event 2 in Pensacola, marking the beginning of a new and highly anticipated sailing season for the ClubSwan community.

Across these opening events, 35 one-design yachts across four classes will take to the water. The season will unfold between Europe and the United States, culminating in September with the Rolex Swan Cup in Porto Cervo, the flagship event of the ClubSwan calendar.

This year carries particular significance as it marks the 60th anniversary of Nautor Swan, a milestone celebrating six decades of craftsmanship, innovation, and a distinctive philosophy of sailing. More than a yacht brand, Swan embodies a way of life, rooted in togetherness, performance, and a shared passion for the sea. Within this philosophy, ClubSwan presents a season defined by three interconnected souls: ClubSwan Racing, dedicated to One Design competition, ClubSwan Legacy, uniting historic Swan yachts designed by Sparkman & Stephens, Ron Holland, and Swan Classics by Frers and ClubSwan Spirit, bringing together modern Swan owners who share a passion for adventure and cruising performance within a competitive framework.

Luisa Bambozzi, Managing Director of ClubSwan, commented: “This will be an important season for the ClubSwan community, which continues to grow and evolve, always centred on celebrating our passionate owners and sailors while welcoming those who are not exclusively focused on competitive racing. We begin in Bonifacio, with its extraordinary scenery, and we are shaping a season rich in memorable moments, both on and off the water”.

The Swan

The Swan Bonifacio Challenge marks the opening chapter of the 2026 Nations League. Racing will begin with the ClubSwan 28 class, followed by the full ClubSwan one- design fleet. Hosted for the third consecutive year in the iconic port of Bonifacio, the event will unfold across two race areas, set against one of the most dramatic backdrops in the Mediterranean.

At the same time, a growing fleet of ClubSwan 28 yachts will launch the American season in Pensacola, Florida. In total, 35 yachts across four classes will compete: 12 ClubSwan 28, 7 ClubSwan 42, 6 ClubSwan 36, 10 ClubSwan 50

The Sailor

The fleet also welcomes three new entries, including Marlin 3 in the ClubSwan 50 class and two ClubSwan 36 yachts in collaboration with The Magenta Project.

The initiative with The Magenta Project, part of the ClubSwan Academy, will promote women in elite sailing through a three-boat programme across EU and US Nations League events, including a ClubSwan 28 in Pensacola, USA. The Magenta Project called on the experience of a panel of professional female sailors — including Abby Ehler, Sara Stone, Josie Gliddon, and Annie Lush — to support the selection process for the ClubSwan36 team. The ambition of this new programme is to build a team based on emerging female talent to compete at the highest level.

The Sea

The Yacht Club de Bonifacio and the city itself stand at the heart of the opening event, delivering a world-class stage both on and off the water. Michel Mallaroni, President of the Yacht Club de Bonifacio, said: “The admiration for the ClubSwan world has led me this year not only to organize the event with the municipality but also to participate personally with the ClubSwan 28 Team Corse powered by Denza.” As tradition dictates, racing will be accompanied by a curated social programme, reinforcing the distinctive lifestyle dimension of ClubSwan events.

The Season Ahead

The 2026 calendar unfolds through a series of defining moments:
• The Swan Heritage Reunion 2026 will take place from 19–21 June on the island of Capraia, Tuscany, celebrating classic Swans designed by Sparkman & Stephens, Ron Holland, and Frers yachts up to 1999, combining heritage racing and exclusive gatherings.
• In September, the Rolex Swan Cup returns to Porto Cervo for its 23rd edition, marking a milestone year as Nautor Swan celebrates its 60th anniversary. Organised in collaboration with the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Rolex, it remains one of the most prestigious regattas on the international sailing calendar.
• The ClubSwan 50 World Championship 2026 will take place in Naples, Italy, from 27–31 October, on waters that will host the America’s Cup in 2027.
• The growing ClubSwan 28 Gold Cup will bring together European and American teams in Fort Lauderdale from 10–14 November.

Opening image, credit photo © ClubSwan Racing | Studio Borlenghi

(The ClubSwan Season is on – Barchemagazine.com – April 2026)

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The flying Ferrari

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:55:14 +0000

The Hypersail, the 100-foot monohull fitted with Ferrari foils and aiming to smash all ocean records, had its livery unveiled at the flagship store in Milan.

by Niccolò Volpati

“The only limits are nature and the technology available today”, says Enrico Voltolini, project leader of Ferrari Hypersail. The figures that define this futuristic project are 20, 30 and 40: 20 metres in beam, 40 metres in height and 30 metres in length. It will set sail in 2027 to break all existing ocean records. To do so, it will require both performance and endurance.

The project partners are NORTH SAILS for the sails, HARKEN for the electric winches, RE FRASCHINI for the foils and CARIBONI for the systems that power them.

Hypersail is designed to reach 50 knots, but above all to sail at 40 knots over long distances. The development of the project, led by the Ferrari Tech Team, the Ferrari Design Studio and naval architect Guillaume Verdier, focused on hydrodynamics and aerodynamics. There are no limits, other than the pursuit of maximum performance from the very outset.

From the left, Flavio Manzoni, Benedetto Vigna, John Elkann, Matteo Lanzavecchia, Marco Guglielmo Ribigini and Enrico Voltolini.

“We ruled out the idea of a trimaran”, explains Flavio Manzoni, Chief Design Officer, “because a monohull offers lower hydrodynamic drag. There will obviously be foils – inspired by the latest America’s Cup boats – of enormous dimensions, and the hull will have a pivoting keel between the two wings”. Voltolini adds: “This is a completely new development, as the keel – weighted with lead to ensure the boat rights itself if it capsizes – has its own foil that will provide upward lift, thereby ensuring the boat remains very stable in rough seas. In addition, flaps are fitted to stabilise the boat whilst airborne, because at top speed there is a risk that the foils will start to cavitate”.

Three parties are responsible for this project: architect Guillaume Verdier, the Ferrari Tech Team and the Ferrari Design Studio.

Hypersail has been designed to reach a top speed of 50 knots, but above all to maintain an average speed of 40 knots over long distances.

The other challenge concerns the onboard instrumentation and its reliability. As ocean races involving ‘flying’ boats have long taught us, it is often the boat that doesn’t break down during long voyages that wins. The real challenge is to coordinate the numerous on-board control systems and ensure they remain consistently efficient. Rather than the top speed itself, it will be important to maintain high average speeds over many miles. The project has paid close attention to energy self-sufficiency, studying the positioning of the solar panels in minute detail to ensure maximum efficiency. In fact, the deck will feature no fewer than 100 square metres of panels capable of generating 20 kW of power.

The aim is to break all ocean records. Will he succeed? We’ll find out in 2027.

Ferrari Hypersail aims for excellence, not only in its design but also in its management. Both the on-board and shore-based teams will be made up of experienced sailors from the America’s Cup, the SailGP circuit and ocean races. Ferrari Hypersail is not just a boat, but a veritable laboratory designed to test the technology at its disposal, with the aim of patenting solutions that can then be used in the automotive sector. The project was initially conceived with Giovanni Soldini, who recently ended his collaboration with Ferrari. The reason has not been disclosed. Could it be that this ‘boat-laboratory’ aspect failed to convince Soldini?

(The flying Ferrari – Barchemagazine.com – April 2026)

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Costa Smeralda Yacht Club – It’s time for regattas

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:59:45 +0000

The 2026 calendar was unveiled in Milan. As packed as ever, and with something extra this year

by Niccolò Volpati

It’s a classic, one of those events you hardly need to mark in your diary. The YCCS has always hosted numerous regattas, but this year it is set to feature a new trophy. The announcement was made by an emotional Princess Zahara Aga Khan, Chair of the Board of Directors and daughter of the yacht club’s founder, His Highness the Aga Khan. In memory of her father, from this year onwards, a new trophy will be awarded during the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in September. The cup was created by Buccellati, a friend of the Aga Khan.

Princess Zahara Aga Khan, Chair of the Board of Directors, has announced a new YCCS trophy in memory of her father.

The season will open from 24 to 26 April with the Cape 31 one-design class, which will make its debut in Porto Cervo with the first leg of the Mediterranean circuit. A month later, it will be the turn of the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, which will feature a large fleet comprising both racing yachts and participants in the Southern Wind RendezVous and Trophy, with 17 superyachts between those already registered and those who have expressed an interest in attending Porto Cervo.

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda was founded by the Aga Khan in 1997.

Furthermore, after 14 years, the Sardinia Cup returns, having been one of the regattas that put the YCCS on the international map. The event, which will take place from 31 May to 7 June, is sponsored by Range Rover.

In May, the yacht club will also host the Grand Soleil Cup, which, in addition to the sailing competition, features an extensive programme involving the shipyard’s other brands, namely Pardo Yachts and Van Dutch. In June, it will be the turn of the TP52s, and in September there will be the 36th edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Alongside the competitive programme, the Young Azzurra sports project continues, dedicated to the development of talented young sailors.

Young Azzurra is the club’s sports programme dedicated to young talent.

Looking ahead to 2027, when the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda will celebrate its 60th anniversary, the “Call for Young Sailors” has been announced – a new initiative aimed at selecting the next generation of athletes to join the Young Azzurra project, led by technical director Pietro Zucchetti, a sailor with two Olympic appearances and a former FIV coach. Because, as Commodore Andrea Recordati pointed out, one of the YCCS’s core values has always been to promote the development and training of young sailors.

YCCS 2026 Season Calendar

24–26 April, Cap 31 Med Round 1
15–17 May, Sailing & Golf
21–23 May, Grand Soleil Cup
26–30 May, Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta
31 May – 7 June, Range Rover Sardinia Cup
15–20 June, Rolex TP52 World Championship
26–28 June, Smeralda 888 Invitational
3–5 July, Smeralda 888 European Cup
29 July – 1 August, YCCS Members Championship
18–23 August, Palermo – Porto Cervo – Monte Carlo
6–12 September, Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup
13–19 September, Rolex Swan Cup
2–4 October, J/70 Cup and Italian Championship

(Costa Smeralda Yacht Club – It’s time for regattas – Barchemagazine.com – March 2026)

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Jules Verne Trophy, Sodebo Ultim 3 breaks the world record

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:53:23 +0000

To cover over 22,000 miles, it took 40 days, 10 hours, 45 minutes, and 50 seconds: the new record was set by the crew led by Thomas Coville, Helly Hansen ambassador and skipper of the ocean trimaran Sodebo Ultim 3.

Jules Verne Trophy is considered the most extreme in the sailing’s world. Its distinctive trait lies in the almost total absence of rules: it is a circumnavigation of the world towards the East, with departure and arrival to Ouessant island, Brittany. The only real limitation is avoiding the dangerous iceberg areas around Antarctica. As for the rest, absolute freedom: any type of sailing boat and any crew can take on, as long as the sailing procedures are followed. From January 24 2026, Jules Verne Trophy has a new owner. The challenge has been conquered by the crew of the Sodebo Ultim 3, a modern and very fast trimaran of the Ultim lineup. At the helm a sailing icon: French skipper Thomas Coville, a man who does not need presentation and that can praise a resumé of ten cirmunnavigations, five of them completed solo. This victory only cements his name among the giants of the sport.

Sodebo Ultim 3 completed the challenge of sailing around the world in far less than eighty days imagined by the novelist after whom the trophy is entitled. The navigation began on December 15 for a total of 40 days, 10 hours, 45 minutes and 50 seconds, surpassing the previous 2017 record of 12 hours and 44 minutes set by Idec Sport. During its navigation around the world, the crew celebrated on board Christmas and New Year’s Eve, winning not only the Jules Verne Trophy, but also setting all new intermediate reference times at the Equator and at the passage of the three great ocean capes: the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and the legendary Cape Horn. This marks the tenth time a new record has been set, continuing a series that began in 1993 when Bruno Peyron, at the helm of Commodore Explorer, took 79 full days to complete the circumnavigation of the globe.

Everything in the Trophée Jules Verne is on a monumental scale. Starting with the number of nautical miles to be covered: theoretically 21,600 (over 40,000 kilometers), but in reality, the distance sailed is often much greater. And then there are the boats themselves: Sodebo Ultim 3 is a 32-meter-long, 23-meter-wide ocean-going Ultim-class trimaran, with a 34-meter mast supporting a sail area of 697 m² in its full configuration. A unique feature of these multihulls is their hydrofoils, the appendages many have come to know from recent America’s Cup editions, which lift the hull out of the water, drastically reducing drag. The performance is extraordinary: in light wind conditions, Sodebo Ultim 3 can sail at three times the speed of the wind, with top speeds approaching 50 knots—around 90 kilometers per hour.

Thomas Coville, skipper of Sodebo Ultim 3, is no stranger to this type of record. In 1997 and 2010, he already won the Trophée Jules Verne as a crew member on Sport-Elec and Groupama 3, respectively. In 2017, he also set the solo round-the-world record in just over 49 days (later broken by François Gabart). But the Trophée Jules Verne as skipper had been a long-term goal: this was his eighth attempt since 2016. In previous attempts, Coville was thwarted by equipment failures or unfavorable conditions. This time, everything aligned: a rapid descent across the Atlantic, where he gained over 1,500 miles on Idec, followed by a challenging passage through the Indian Ocean, where his lead was completely eroded, and then a safe transit of the Southern Ocean, where he regained the lead in the virtual race before extending it during the final leg back to Brittany.

Helly Hansen technical gear

During the record-breaking circumnavigation, the crew of Sodebo Ultim 3 relied on Helly Hansen’s technical gear. The Norwegian brand has partnered with some of the world’s best offshore sailors, including Thomas Coville, to develop the next evolution of its ocean collection: the Ægir Ocean Jacket 2.0 and Ægir Ocean Bib 2.0. For this new ocean kit, used by the Sodebo Ultim 3 crew to conquer the Trophée Jules Verne, a new ocean version of Helly Tech Professional fabric was developed—a three-layer laminate integrating a waterproof, breathable, and windproof multi-layer composite membrane. This updated version limits the use of chemicals harmful to both humans and the environment, which will be banned in North America and Europe in the coming years. Additionally, the outer fabric incorporates a significant percentage of recycled nylon, making it even stronger and more resilient to the harsh conditions of the open ocean. More information on Helly Hansen’s proprietary technologies and the Ægir ocean collection is available at hellyhansen.com.

(Jules Verne Trophy: Sodebo Ultim 3 breaks the world record– Barchemagazine.com – January 2026)

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Women Sailors Challenge the Jules Verne Trophy

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:16:26 +0000

Alexia Barrier leads first all-female crew set to complete historic round-the-world voyage aboard the Idec Sport

The world of ocean sailing stands on the brink of a historic breakthrough. For decades, the Trophée Jules Verne—the ultimate benchmark for speed and endurance in round-the-world sailing—has remained an exclusively male conquest. That narrative is now being challenged.

Under the command of Alexia Barrier, the all-female crew of The Famous Project CIC is nearing the completion of a full circumnavigation aboard Idec Sport, the legendary maxi trimaran that still holds the Jules Verne Trophy record set by Francis Joyon in 2017. Never before has a women’s crew attempted, let alone completed, such a voyage on a maxi multihull of this calibre.

“The Famous Project CIC is bringing together the best female professional sailors from around the world, with the boat that holds the current record we’re aiming to make history and disrupt this all-male legacy”, affirmed Alexia Barrier, Captain of the crew.

After weeks of relentless Southern Ocean miles and high-latitude pressure systems, Idec Sport is currently sheltered in the Azores archipelago, waiting for conditions in the North Atlantic to moderate before the final push toward Ushant, expected on the morning of Monday, 26 January. The decision to pause reflects the crew’s strategic maturity. Forecasts predicted waves exceeding 10 metres and winds above 40 knots in the Bay of Biscay—conditions that would turn speed into unnecessary risk.

A battle with the Elements

During violent winter storms in the North Atlantic, the crew suffered a major setback: the mainsail was torn during a gybe while taking the first reef. What followed was a four-hour operation in extreme conditions, with Molly LaPointe suspended from the mast as the team worked to secure the sail and rig a reduced configuration.

“We only have enough sail left for a minimalist setup”, explains Barrier. “Ironically, it’s exactly what we need for the conditions we’re facing. We’re strong, united, and determined to finish”.

Despite the damage, morale remains high. “We have to fight for every kilometre”, adds Dee Caffari, first officer and veteran of multiple global circumnavigations. “Our experience, resilience and teamwork will carry us to the finish”.

The Project is made up of a crew of 8 Female Sailors, representing 7 nationalities, all with very different sailing backgrounds and disciplines, ranging from Olympic, Offshore Racing and Record Breaking Attempts, the team includes:

Alexia Barrier (46) – Captain – (French)
Dee Caffari (53) – First Officer – (English)
Annemieke Bes (47) – (Dutch)
Rebecca Gmür Hornell (25) – (Swiss / New Zealand)
Deborah Blair (23) – (English)
Molly LaPointe (28) – (American / English)
Támara Echegoyen (41) – (Spain)
Stacey Jackson (41) – (Australian)

Idec Sport: a mythic boat

Launched in 2006, Idec Sport is more than a racing trimaran—it is a floating monument to offshore sailing excellence. Powerful, unforgiving, and demanding absolute precision, it has carried some of the greatest sailors of the modern era.

With The Famous Project CIC, the boat enters a new chapter—one defined not only by performance, but by meaning. An all-female crew aboard one of the fastest boats ever built is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a statement about competence, ambition, and evolution in professional sailing.

As Idec Sport prepares for its final Atlantic miles, history is already in motion. Whether measured in hours, miles, or barriers broken, this voyage will leave its mark.

Opening, Alexia Barrier running on the Idec Sport

(Women Sailors Challenge the Jules Verne Trophy – Barchemagazine.com – January 2026)

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Louis Vuitton and America’s Cup: a new era begins in Naples

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:08:43 +0000

The America’s Cup Partnership (ACP) was formally unveiled in Naples as Louis Vuitton confirmed the renewal of its title sponsorship for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, marking a historic step in the evolution of the world’s oldest international sporting trophy.

The announcement took place in the grand setting of the Palazzo Reale, in the presence of international media, institutional leaders and representatives of the founding teams. Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi addressed the audience offering a warm welcome, saying: “Another step forward was taken with the launch of the America’s Cup Partnership, which continues and strengthens the path toward Naples 2027. This collaboration represents a bridge between the tradition and innovation of the world’s oldest sailing competition, propelling it toward a new phase of growth, modernisation, and greater global visibility. We are particularly proud that the change in the organisational model, aimed at leveraging television rights and amplifying the event’s media reach, is taking shape with the Italian edition. This is a significant added value that places Italy at the centre of the international stage, within one of the most fascinating and coveted competitions in the world”.

Following on from Minister Abodi, the new President of the Campania Region, Roberto Fico who was unable to attend the ceremony in Naples due to a prior commitment, welcomed delegates with a letter read out that stated: “Hosting the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup is a great honour for the Campania Region and its citizens. The eyes of the whole world will be focused on the magnificent Gulf of Naples and the beauty of our region. Campania is a land of culture, sport and hospitality. It boasts breathtaking views and an important sailing tradition. As institutions, we are ready to support the ‘Road to Naples’ with responsibility and pride”.

Five teams have so far joined the new Partnership and will contest the Cup: Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL), GB1 (GBR), Luna Rossa (ITA), Tudor Team Alinghi (SUI) and K-Challenge (FRA). The ACP introduces a shared governance model aimed at strengthening commercial growth, media reach and long-term stability for the event.

Louis Vuitton CEO Pietro Beccari confirmed the brand’s continued commitment, underlining its historic role in the America’s Cup since 1983 and its support for a “more modern and inclusive era” of the competition. Italian institutional support was reinforced by the presence of the Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi, Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, and Marco Mezzaroma, President of Sport e Salute, all highlighting the event’s strategic importance for sport, urban regeneration and Italy’s international profile.

Key dates were also confirmed: the America’s Cup Match will begin on Saturday 10 July 2027, with two opening races, and conclude over the weekend of 17-18 July 2027, as announced by Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand. Naples, hosting the America’s Cup for the first time, will provide the backdrop with the Gulf of Naples widely regarded as one of the world’s premier sailing venues.

The presentation concluded with a cultural welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, representing the Defender, reinforcing the heritage and future vision of the America’s Cup as it heads toward what promises to be one of the most anticipated editions in its 175-year history.

(Louis Vuitton and America’s Cup: a new era begins in Naples – Barchemagazine.com – January 2026)

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Baltic 111 Raven, record in the 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:01:39 +0000

The 34-metre Baltic 111 Raven has rewritten the limits of monohull offshore performance, taking Monohull Line Honours, winning the IMA Transatlantic Trophy, and setting a new monohull race record in the 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race from Lanzarote to Antigua.

Baltic Yachts is delighted to celebrate the exceptional debut performance of Raven in her first major offshore race. Seeing the Baltic 111 cross the Atlantic with such authority—setting a new monohull race record and claiming line honours—is a moment of immense pride for everyone involved in the project.

“It was truly fantastic to see Raven perform so well in her first outing”, says Mattias Svenlin, Project Co-ordinator at Baltic Yachts. “The boat did exactly what she was designed to do, and watching her sail with such confidence and speed was incredibly rewarding for the whole team. We are very proud of the collaboration with the owner and project team so far, and we look forward to continuing to develop this amazing yacht together”.

Photo credit @Roddyacqua

For navigator Will Oxley, who also navigated Comanche to the monohull race record in the 2022 RORC Transatlantic Race to Grenada, the comparison between the two boats highlights just how radical Raven is.

“It’s fascinating to compare Raven and Comanche”, explained Oxley. “Comanche is still the global benchmark in VMG downwind sailing, but Raven has clear performance advantages at certain angles. In this race, which is largely a classic downwind Atlantic crossing, when we’re sailing our angles we’re faster. Where Comanche still has the edge is pure VMG, and that’s something we continue to work on. But Raven is an incredible platform, and what we’ve achieved here sets a very serious benchmark”.

That benchmark was achieved without drama, a key measure of success for the team. “Before the start I said I would judge this race on three things”, Oxley added. “Boat condition, crew condition and whether the time we set stood up against Atlantic crossing benchmarks. We achieved all three. We arrived with the boat and crew in great shape, and we set a time that speaks for itself”.

The crew of Raven 111 receive the IMA Trophy from The Hon. Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, Minister of Tourism & Economic Development and RORC CEO Jeremy Wilton © Arthur Daniel/RORC

Raven Crew: Brad Jackson, Carlos Hernandez Robayna, Charlie Wyatt, Claes Nyloef, Corrado Rossignoli, Damien Durchon, Daryl Wislang, Dean de Groot, Simbad Quiroga, Julien Cressant, Justin Slattery, Pablo Arrarte, Robbie Naismith, Roger Samuelsson, Rudi van Velzen, Tony Mutter, Will Oxley.

Skippered by Damien Durchon, Raven crossed the finish line at 30 knots of boat speed off English Harbour, Antigua, on Sunday 18 January, completing the 3,000-nautical-mile Atlantic crossing in just under seven days, an extraordinary achievement. Light for her length, foil assisted and engineered to sustain very high average speeds for days at a time, Raven represents a new chapter in offshore maxi yacht design.

Raven was welcomed into Falmouth Harbour by The Hon. Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, Minister of Tourism & Economic Development, who congratulated the crew and presented the IMA Transatlantic Trophy, as the first maxi yacht to finish the race. Fernandez highlighted Antigua’s role as the new finish destination for the RORC Transatlantic Race, underlining the island’s appeal to elite offshore racing yachts and international crews.

Photo credit: @Roddyacqua

Baltic 111 crosses the finish line in Antigua

Speed with stability

Unlike fully flying foilers, Raven generates enormous righting moment through her side foils while remaining largely in the water, combining performance with control. For skipper Damien Durchon, that balance is fundamental.

“This boat is incredibly stable”, said Durchon. “The better it performs, the safer it becomes. We have huge righting moment from the foils, backed up by 10 tonnes of water ballast and strong hull form stability. If a foil stalls, the boat simply behaves like a conventional yacht. In many respects, I would say Raven is safer than most offshore boats”.

“At 25 knots it already feels fast”, Durchon explained. “At 30 knots and above, you’re moving quicker than the waves themselves. You’re working your way through the sea rather than reacting to it. It’s demanding, but the boat remains remarkably manageable”.

Photo credit: @Roddyacqua

A boat built to go fast for days

Sailing Master Brad Jackson emphasised that sustained performance, not peak speed, was the defining feature of the campaign. “If you complete a race like this in under seven days, a lot has gone right”, Jackson said. “The weather was excellent, but the boat is genuinely fast through the water. That’s the impressive part. This wasn’t a sprint with everything on the edge, it was about keeping the boat in one piece and letting it do what it’s designed to do”.

Jackson also highlighted the significance of crew cohesion on such an advanced platform. “This is a complicated boat, but the crew dynamic is very positive”, he said. “Everyone knows their role, everyone is professional, and we’ve spent a lot of time learning this boat together. This was the first time we really stepped up the intensity and treated it like a full race. The way the team came together was a big part of the result”.

Oxley echoed that sentiment: “Brad has done a great job building a team where the dynamics really work”, he said. “There’s no friction, the humour stays no matter what’s happening, and that makes a huge difference offshore. People want to sail this boat because of the platform, but also because of the team”.

Photo credit: @Roddyacqua

Raven Crew celebrate after crossing the line in Antigua.

Engineering the future

Project Manager Claes Nyloef believes Raven points clearly toward the future of offshore monohulls. “This is a way forward”, said Nyloef. “You get foiling performance without fully flying, which is critical for ocean racing. It’s a very good combination of a fast monohull and foiling technology. I think you will see more boats like this. It’s efficient, it’s reliable, and you can sail it like a normal boat while accessing a completely new level of performance”.

Nyloef described the acceleration as the boat’s defining trait. “When she starts accelerating, it doesn’t stop”, he said. “It’s breathtaking. Previously you only experienced that sensation on multihulls. Now you can feel it on a monohull of this size, and it’s extraordinary”.

Photo credit: @Roddyacqua

Baltic 111 Raven arrives just after sunrise in Antigua.

Finishing in style

The race ended as it began, with precision and pace. Oxley called the final approach into Antigua in challenging, shifting conditions.

“It was a very dark night, no moon, shifting breeze and changing pressure”, he recalled. “We wanted to call a good layline for the finish. With a bit of practice and a bit of luck, we nailed it and crossed the finish doing over 30 knots. That was a pretty special way to end the race. We said before the race that we would do this in seven days”, he said. “We did it in six days and 22 hours. That tells us we understand this boat now. There’s still room to improve, especially at certain angles, but this race proved the concept”.

Photo credit @Sailing Energy

(Baltic 111 Raven, record nella RORC Transatlantic Race 2026 – Barchemagazine.com – January 2026)

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Under the Skin of Argo: the MOD70’s Atlantic Race preparation

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:11:17 +0000

MOD70 Argo is preparing in Lanzarote for the 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race against rival Zoulou. The team has focused on reliability, minor upgrades, and thorough systems checks. With an experienced crew, Argo aims to push limits over the 3,000-mile Atlantic sprint to Antigua.

The MOD70 trimarans Argo (USA) and Zulu (FRA) will renew their fierce rivalry in the 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race, starting from Lanzarote on 11th January and finishing in Antigua. Capable of sustained speeds over 35 knots, the two boats have repeatedly finished within minutes of each other and are expected to battle closely once again, with the MOD70 winner setting a new race record.

Argo’s long-time project manager Chad Corning, an “Argonaut” for 17 years, outlines how the team has prepared for the 3,000-mile sprint. The focus has been on reliability and efficiency, not major upgrades. A key addition is Starlink, improving access to weather data and communication offshore.

The Argonaut Chad Corning also declared “The boat undergoes annual NDT scans, which we’ve just completed in Lanzarote during our yard period. The major structural points of the boat, as well as the mast and all the appendages, are scanned and compared to the archive of past scans. A few issues always pop up —thankfully, just minor ones this time. All of the mechanical systems are removed from the boat and serviced/rebuilt. Foil and rudder bearings, winches, and the hydraulic systems all go to the bench for a refresh. The crew remains largely unchanged, with Sam Goodchild joining the team, valued for his calm, focused approach”.

The team returns to the race for the quality of the trade-wind sailing and the close competition with Zoulou. While aiming for maximum speed, Argo balances performance with caution, recognizing that human error and debris impacts—especially to foils and rudders—are the biggest risks.

With preparation complete and training underway, the stage is set for another high-intensity MOD70 showdown across the Atlantic.

(Under the Skin of Argo: the MOD70’s Atlantic Race preparation – Barchemagazine.com – December 2025)

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Palm Beach XI christened in Sydney

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:26:38 +0000

After an extraordinary five-month sprint, Mark Richards and his team are nearing completion

More than 300 guests gathered at the historic Woolwich Dock on Sydney Harbour to witness the christening of the newly modified. Supermaxi Palm Beach XI, formerly known as Wild Oats XI. The christening of Palm Beach XI was done by venerable Australian yachtsman and longtime friend and Palm Beach Motor Yacht owner Colin O’Neil.

The event marked the culmination of a 165-day global transformation of the 20-year- old Supermaxi designed to return her back to the world stage of ocean racing starting with the 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race taking place on 26th December. Palm Beach XI is close to getting ready to join the international fleet of 133 entries — the second-largest starting lineup this century for the 628 nautical mile race – to contend with 5 other World-Class 100-foot Supermaxi’s for the line honors trophy.

“It’s a full-circle moment”, said Richards. “I’m deeply grateful to the Oatley family for their amazing support and friendship over the past 26 years. Twenty years ago, we made Wild Oats XI a benchmark in global ocean racing. To now carry that legacy forward as Palm Beach XI—under new ownership and as a global brand ambassador for Palm Beach Motor Yachts—is both an honor and a responsibility I’m proud to lead”. Richards also emphasized the huge team effort: “You can only take on a project like this with an experienced and trusted team. Many of our team members have worked on this yacht on and off for the past 20 years. The last couple of months they worked around the clock to make this dream a reality – it was great to see their passion and enthusiasm for Palm Beach XI. Really incredible! Now we are very much looking forward to seeing Palm Beach XI competing and performing at the highest level”.

A next-generation appendage package

The upgraded appendage package represents the most significant transformation in Palm Beach XI’s two-decade career.

Highlights include:

• New Deeper Keel Fin and Bulb – designed to reduce drag and maximize righting moment.

• Advanced Upwind Daggerboards – delivering sharper pointing ability and reduced drag and leeway in all conditions.

• Radical C-Foils – engineered to optimize lift, minimize drag, and provide enhanced righting moment for reaching and downwind sailing angles.

Collectively, these innovations are designed not only to return Palm Beach XI to the front of the Rolex Sydney Hobart fleet, but also to serve as a living technology platform where insights will inform the Palm Beach Motor Yachts’ luxury motor yacht range.

Palm Beach XI 2.5 year global sailing calendar

Palm Beach XI’s global roadshow will include the next three Rolex Sydney Hobarts, the Newport (Rhode Island) Bermuda Race, the Transpacific Yacht Race from Los Angeles to Hawaii and Hamilton Island Race Week in 2027 to wrap up the campaign.

(Palm Beach XI christened in Sydney – Barchemagazine.com – December 2025)

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11th Hour Racing Partners with The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026

BARBARA BORGONOVO — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:46:27 +0000

This partnership builds on The Ocean Race and 11th Hour Racing’s longstanding relationship to collaborate on initiatives that advance ocean science and literacy, sustainable event excellence, and equity and inclusion in offshore sailing.

11th Hour Racing has been a founding partner of The Ocean Race’s award-winning sustainability program – Racing for the Ocean – and has worked with The Ocean Race for more than 10 years to promote advances in ocean health. This exciting new collaboration will leverage the high-profile platform of The Ocean Race Atlantic, which is set to kick off in September 2026. As part of this ongoing partnership, 11th Hour Racing will support initiatives like the new gender-balanced crew requirement, reflecting its commitment to equity and inclusivity in sailing.

For the first time in The Ocean Race, teams will be required to be gender balanced. While female sailors have competed throughout the 52-year history of the Race, including with all-female crews, The Ocean Race Atlantic marks the first time the race crews will be required to be equal – two women and two men – an initiative designed to promote and foster gender equity in offshore sailing.

“As we join forces again for The Ocean Race Atlantic, we’re committed to setting a new benchmark for equity and access in offshore racing for women to compete with parity at the highest level of the sport”, said Jeremy Pochman, Co-Founder and CEO of

11th Hour Racing.

The Impact partnership will also continue to further the multi-faceted work and success the two organizations have achieved in significantly contributing to ocean science, education, inclusion, and sustainable event practices.

“Our decade-long relationship with The Ocean Race has resulted in real, measurable impact”, Pochman continued. “Together, we’ve pushed advances in onboard science equipment, expanded open-access ocean data, built an ocean literacy program that now reaches learners in 13 languages (with more on the way), and developed a sustainable event-operations blueprint that can serve as a model for major sporting events. These are clear examples of what collaboration can achieve. We are now seeking to emulate this success with gender equity in the sport”.

“We have long championed creating opportunities for female sailors in The Ocean Race and over recent editions have had a number of rules and incentives to ensure a minimum number of women on board. But this is the first time we will have gender-balanced race crews on each and every boat, which we believe is a real step forward in terms of equal opportunity”, said Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race. “We are very happy to have 11th Hour Racing join us again to share this opportunity to promote equity in our sport and to empower and enable our ongoing ocean science and literacy programmes as we are Racing for the Ocean during The Ocean Race Atlantic”.

Kicking off in September 2026 from New York City, The Ocean Race Atlantic is a new transatlantic sailing race for the foiling, flying IMOCA class boats in their fully-crewed configuration. The event footprint in the start and finish venues will demonstrate sustainable event practices to ensure a positive impact and legacy on the local community.

“Working with 11th Hour Racing enables The Ocean Race to continue on our shared journey as leaders in pushing offshore racing towards a more equitable and sustainable future, on and off the water and most importantly continue to connect communities with the blue heart of our planet – the ocean”, concluded Lucy Hunt, Ocean Impact Director of The Ocean Race.

(11th Hour Racing Partners with The Ocean Race Atlantic 2026 – Barchemagazine.com – December 2025)

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