27 - 29th January 2012
Unequalled in the Caribbean, Nelson’s Dockyard
in English Harbour Antigua is a hallowed place for sailors young and old. The
remarkable streets and celebrated Georgian buildings chronicle over 300 years
of maritime history.
The dockyard is a unique setting, which commands
admiration and this January, a fitting yachting regatta will take place in
these esteemed surroundings.A dazzling array of the world’s most
prestigious sailing yachts will attend The Superyacht Challenge Antigua.
A rare
occasion to celebrate sailing, for a truly impressive guest list, which is now
fully committed to the event.
Adela --181’ Twin Masted Schooner incorporating
every conceivable modern yacht system with a graceful and classic profile both
on deck and throughout a sumptuous interior. A predecessor of the J-class
America's Cup, combining exceptional performance with the charm and elegance of
a golden era.
Drumfire -- 80’ Bermudan Sloop, which won the
2011 Superyacht Cup Palma. A classic design with exceptional performance both
inshore and offshore. The smallest yacht at the regatta can punch well above
its weight. Superb craftsmanship throughout with flush decks and the latest in
sail control systems, offer exceptional sail-handling ability.
Marama -- 100’ Ketch with a unique personality,
starting life as an abandoned project before being transformed into a
distinctive yacht of functional rather than fashionable design. The interior
has the feel of a modern penthouse, the deck and rig lay out are honed for
speed. A truly individual endeavour.
Marie – 180’ Ketch nominated for the 2011 Robb
Report ‘Best of the Best’ custom megayachts, combining classic aesthetics and
contemporary design. The hull and exterior styling is reminiscent of the Golden
Age of Yachting, yet offering all the spacious comforts and amenities of a 21st
century yacht, a real downwind flyer.
Rebecca – 140’ Ketch the largest ketch to be
built at Pendennis to date and without doubt one of the finest looking, modern
sailing yachts in the world. Stylish, eye-catching with power and grace under
sail with a light and elegant interior including a sole made from antique Heart
Pine salvaged from a mill built in 1711.
Sojana -- 115’ Ketch holder of the Round
Antigua Record and the Lord Nelson Trophy, the magnificent yacht is as
luxurious cruising as it is speedy on the racecourse. Below decks, there is a
wealth of dark mahogany paneling, with gold-plated fittings and lavish fabrics.
The latest in hi-tech sails, push-button winches and sleek lines have made
Sojana a highly successful racing yacht of unquestionable pedigree.
This Is Us – 141’ Twin Masted Schooner, a
glorious creation with low freeboard and dramatic overhangs, designed to offer
an exhilarating ride. Full of power and beauty, this head-turning yacht is a
truly modern classic with a sumptuous interior. However, carbon spars and
rigging deliver exceptional sailing performance. A contemporary yacht of
immense character intended to deliver awe-inspiring Caribbean adventures.
Timoneer – 147’ Ketch offering complete comfort
for ocean cruising. A classic profile with balanced overhangs and a sweet
sheer. The beautifully designed award-winning interior boasts a wealth of
hand-polished cherry wood, contributing to a relaxed and traditional
atmosphere. An exceptional conception, offering passion, creativity and
craftsmanship designed for remote seafaring adventures.
Virago – 100’ Sloop winner of the 2011 St.
Barths Bucket Regatta. Built by Nautor’s Swan, as a high performance racer
cruiser, Virago competes at grand prix sailing events the world over. The
undoubtedly luxurious design is complimented by sophisticated engineering to
provide an extraordinary power to weight ratio. Given the fine fayre of warm
trade winds with an accompanying seas state, the yacht is capable of speeds in
excess of 20 knots. In the right conditions, probably the fastest yacht at the
regatta.
Windrose – 152’ Schooner made headlines around
the world after breaking the Transatlantic crossing record twice. With low
freeboards, dashing sheer and long sweet overhangs, Windrose is a favourite
among classic connoisseurs. However, her traditional appearance belies hidden
technological advancements. This magnificent schooner captures the spirit of
the early 20th century's Golden Age of Sail, whilst sacrificing little in the
way of speed, sail handling and luxury.
A significant number of highly prestigious
yachts have strongly expressed their interest to take up the invitation to
compete including; Elena, Hyperion, Nefertiti, P2 and Thalima.
The Superyacht Challenge Antigua will strive to
deliver an exceedingly enjoyable occasion for all of the participants.
Promoting fair sailing, good companionship and life-long memories.
In
time-honoured tradition, the victor will simply receive a keg of rum and the kind-hearted
admiration from an astonishing selection of yacht owners and their crew.