Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will once again host the world’s most beautiful yachts from September 26 to October 4, 2015. Over the years, the unique gathering of over 300 sailing yachts, ancient and modern alike, in the bay of Saint Tropez, a gorgeous South of France yacht charter destination, has become a not-to-be-missed meeting to round off the sailing season in style.
Partridge and Marigold Yachts under sail – Photo by Gilles Martin-Raget
On the water, Partridge celebrates her 130th birthday
This year’s event will be marked by several key anniversaries, which reflect the deep-rooted passion that surrounds majestic yachts, whatever their age. Partridge, the very elegant gaff cutter with a plumb bow, will be celebrating her 130th birthday. Designed by the English naval architect John Beavor Webb, this frisky centenarian was constructed in Gosport in 1885, before being laid up in a mud berth and converted into a houseboat. It was the unwavering determination of her new owner, Alex Laird, which saved her from a scheduled abandon and returned her to her best racing form, following a restoration that took more than fifteen years!
This year will be also marked by a significant anniversary for the 20-year-old Wally superyacht Genie. The launch of this 24-metre Frers design in 1995 literally revolutionised naval architecture by making cruising more comfortable, faster and safer, whilst also making manoeuvring easier when sailing shorthanded.
On shore: festivities for all
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will once again see racing during the day and partying in the evening. Nestled between the Harbour Master’s Office and the port, the Village set up by GL Events, partner to Les Voiles de Saint Tropez, will be hosting the post-race celebrations. The highlights of the on-shore entertainment will be the ‘boule’ competition on Wednesday evening and the crews’ procession the following evening, not to mention the much-appreciated participation of Tahiti. Indeed the latter will have a stand in the village, displaying its local produce and jewellery, as well as its special group of dancers, who will give the yachts their traditional welcome on race night.
