Embracing Diversity and Joy: A Celebration of Eclecticism
Voiles de Saint-Tropez: Celebrating Eclecticism in Sailing
28 September – 6 October 2024
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez © Gilles Martin-Raget
Nearly 250 boats are officially entered in Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, starting on September 28.
The entry lists, featuring notable names and stunning images from past editions, showcase the diverse and unique atmosphere that makes Les Voiles extraordinary. Here’s a closer look at some of the exciting entrants just weeks before the event.
Boats of All Sizes
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez can proudly claim yachts ranging from 8 to 55 meters in length. The largest entry, *Elena of London*, measures 14 meters on deck, plus an impressive 41 meters of waterline length. This beautiful replica of Nathanaël Herreshoff’s 1910 auric schooner was built in Spain in 2009 and is set to dazzle both spectators and participants. The fleet also welcomes *Dainty*, an 8.2-meter boat from the Solent Sunbeam series, captained by Peter Nicholson, who celebrated her 100th anniversary in 2022 at the Yacht Club de Gstaad Centenary Trophy. Size is truly irrelevant when it comes to the festive atmosphere of Saint-Tropez!
From Oldest to Newest Maxis
Within the Classic series, the title for the oldest participant goes to the stunning auric yawl *Sky*, built in 1890 at Thetis Ware shipyard in England. After a comprehensive refit earlier in the century, this powerful 26-meter vessel returns to the event. On the flip side, *Capricorno*, constructed entirely from carbon just last year at King Marine, is anticipated to be a standout. The Italian crew faces stiff competition from *North Star*, which came in second in 2023. Additional contenders include the upgraded *Jethou* and the remarkable Wally 101 *Y3K*, the largest in its category at 30.80 meters.
Modern Fleets Competing for Crowns
The previous year’s IRC C winner, TP52 *Nanoq*, is back to fight for the BMW Trophy title, helmed by Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark, who recently became king following the abdication of his mother. Will he reclaim his title this autumn in Saint-Tropez? The competition promises to be fierce, with several TP52s, lightweight Cape 31 class boats, and custom prototypes vying for success. Four classifications will divide the fleet, creating a fair playing field for diverse boats, including the Tofinou 9.50, the Club Swan 42, the Code 0, and the Grand Soleil 50. The Modern fleet boasts over 110 entrants.
Les Voiles 2024 Poster Unveiled
The anticipation for the annual Les Voiles poster is high, and the 2024 edition features artwork by local artist Jean-Claude Servoz. This talented individual, originally from the Côte d’Or, retired seven years ago after a project management career in construction. His passion for painting flourished when he inherited a small fisherman’s cottage in 1970, which became a retreat. In 2023, he showcased his work for the first time and found great success. At 79 years old and approaching his 80th birthday on November 1, Jean-Claude describes his creative process as one filled with inspiration, often coming to him at night. His artistic technique includes a base of acrylic complemented by natural collage elements and unique materials, culminating in a striking representation of the local church tower.
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2024 Schedule
- Saturday 28 September: Registration for Maxis (over 18.28m) Classic and Modern yachts up to 18.28 meters.
- Sunday 29 September: Registration for Maxis (over 18.28m) Classic and Modern yachts up to 18.28 meters. Arrival of the YCF Autumn Cup (Cannes Saint-Tropez)
- Monday 30 September: Regattas for Maxis and Modern yachts
- Tuesday 1 October: Regattas for all fleets
- Wednesday 2 October: Regattas for Modern and Classic yachts
- Day Off for the Maxis and Club 55 Maxi Cup
- Thursday 3 October: Challenge Day and Club 55 Cup for Modern and Classic yachts, regattas for Maxis
- Friday 4 October: Regattas for all fleets
- Saturday 5 October: Regattas for all fleets, Prize-giving ceremony for the Maxis
- Sunday 6 October: Prize-giving ceremony for Modern and Classic yachts
Luca Moretti, an accomplished sailor and marine journalist from Genoa, Italy, has a lifelong passion for the sea that has defined his career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Genoa, Luca is celebrated for his vivid and insightful storytelling. His work captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime traditions of Europe, making him a well-respected voice in the sailing community. When he’s not writing, Luca can be found exploring the Mediterranean’s picturesque coastlines and competing in regattas, always seeking new adventures on the open water.