The 49th edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race took place between 8 – 14th August. The young crew of the British yacht Sunrise demonstrated the tenacity, skill and moments of inspired intuition required to outperform the opposition at one of sport’s greatest challenges.
A dramatic sky overhangs the fleet as it makes its way west shortly after the start
This year’s edition attracted a fleet of 337 yachts of which 264 were competing for the overall win on time correction. Significantly, for the first time in its near 100-year history, the course did not end in Plymouth, England. The change to Cherbourg, France marks an evolution in this historic race adding 87 nm (161 km) to the length as well as fresh tidal complexities.
The Rolex Fastnet Race attracts an international fleet from over 30 nations
The assembled fleet was as impressive as ever. From professionally crewed maxi trimarans and monohulls, through the ocean racing one design classes to the usual mix of more Corinthian yachts, entries reflected the appeal of offshore yachting and the broad range of opportunities the discipline offers.
The start of the 2021 race was a hard upwind passage into challenging waves
The race began on Sunday, 8 August with crews setting off into the teeth of a fierce south-westerly gusting 30 knots, and a building sea state. It was a brutal first 12 hours or so, with dozens of yachts retiring through equipment failure, injury or overwhelming crew fatigue. It is often said that you cannot win a yacht race on the first day, but you can lose it. One of Sunrise’s expected close competitors was involved in a collision on the first afternoon that left them dismasted.
The supermaxi Skorpios, the largest yacht in the race, encounters steep waves as she enters the English Channel
Leading from the off, the first boat to complete the race was the French multihull, Maxi Edmond De Rothschild, in an impressive time of just over 33 hours – the benchmark for the new course. Skorpios, the largest entrant in the fleet at 43 meters, reached Cherbourg some 24 hours later setting the monohull target time for future races.
IRC Two victory for Tom Kneen and his young team on the JPK 11.80 Sunrise
Sunrise’s corrected time of 4 days, 6 hours, 45 minutes 4 seconds has given Kneen IRC Two victory by a huge margin. As Sunrise finished, her closest rival was just past the Lizard with more than 120 nautical miles still to sail.
Winning overall from a fleet of more than 250 yachts is, in the words of Tom Kneen, the owner and skipper of Sunrise: “a once in a lifetime achievement”.
For nearly a century, the Rolex Fastnet Race has set the highest standards of excellence in offshore sailing. It is a challenge that inspires sailors of all backgrounds. Rolex is proud to support a sporting contest that continues to unite like few others, one that mirrors its own Perpetual spirit: humbly adapting to the elements, constantly seeking to improve and summoning one’s deepest resources.
Credits: Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com; Rolex Fastnet Race
Seawolf arrived in Falmouth Antigua last month following a successful transatlantic voyage, marking its first public appearance since undergoing an extensive 2-year refit at Pendennis’ UK facility. The 1950s 57-meter converted ocean-going tug was comprehensively updated with modern technology and sustainable solutions, while preserving its heritage and classic lines.Pendennis collaborated with UK-based Design Unlimited, who were contracted by the yacht’s new owners to oversee the refit design of both the interior and exterior. Design Unlimited worked closely with interior designer Ngila Boyd, who has a long-standing relationship with the client, to create a timeless and elegant interior tailored to the family’s needs for global cruising and exploration. The design incorporates painted and timber panelling, elegant materials, bespoke furniture by H. Miller Bros., and lighting by John Cullen and Cox London, enhancing the onboard ambiance.Transformative improvements include a new owner’s suite, forward of the owner’s pantry and sky lounge, and a redesigned aft deck with a hard top featuring skylights. The flybridge was remodeled into a dining and viewing space, while the crew area, captain’s cabin, and wheelhouse were also extensively refurbished. The owner’s accommodation was expertly manufactured and fitted by Oldenburger, while Norfolk Interiors crafted the sky lounge, owner’s pantry, crew accommodations, and wheelhouse. Exterior enhancements, including the flybridge and main deck reception area, were executed by William Garvey.The refit included a complete overhaul of the yacht’s hotel services, guest and crew spaces, and engine room, with the existing slow-speed diesel engines preserved. The exterior was sympathetically restored, including a complete repaint of the hull and superstructure, new decks, a new cargo/rescue crane, a side boarding platform, and the reconfiguration of outside spaces.Group Operations Director Charlie Ross noted that the Seawolf project was one of the most technologically demanding endeavors tackled by Pendennis, requiring the team to push boundaries in sustainable solutions while respecting the yacht’s aesthetic integrity. The successful completion of the refit ensures that Seawolf retains its legacy and continues to be a significant presence in the global yachting community.Pendennis Shipyard is one of the world's leading custom superyacht builders and refit shipyards and has become one of Cornwall's most important employers with over 430 highly skilled tradespeople based at the 14-acre prime waterfront location in Falmouth, UK. In the latter part of 2018 Pendennis secured a majority share hold in Vilanova Grand Marina, a 48 berth facility with adjacent land available for further development. The investment in Vilanova is yet another milestone in Pendennis’ international growth and offering to its global client base. Credit: Pendennis
March 13, 2025
Bluegame will once again participate in the Palm Beach International Boat Show, taking place from March 19th to 23rd, 2025. The brand will showcase the BG74, a model embodying the essence of the historic BG range and the embodiment of Bluegame's unique touch.BG74 is bridging the gap between open and fly-bridge yachts. It is designed for owners seeking a comprehensive yachting experience without compromises, combining the best attributes of both categories.Building on the successes of 2024, including the pioneering BGH-HSV Hydrogen Support Vessel project, Bluegame continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The experience gained from BGH-HSV has laid the foundation for a new range of multihulls, named BGF (Foil), with the BGF45 model set to debut in the summer of 2025.Another significant development in 2024 was the release of the upgraded BGM75, featuring synchronized gyroscopes in collaboration with Smart Gyro, offering unprecedented stability and comfort. A unit of this model will make its U.S. debut in the summer of 2025, further solidifying Bluegame's position as a leader in technological innovation within the international yachting industry.Bluegame is part of Sanlorenzo. The Sanlorenzo shipyard has been building high-quality motor yachts since 1958. It is a boutique firm in the yachting industry, building only a limited number of made-to-measure units per year. Each yacht is designed and produced according to the specific requests, style, and desires of the individual owner.Credits: Bluegame
March 13, 2025
Moonen Yachts announced a reduction in the price of the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 ahead of its presentation at the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS), where the yacht will be featured on E-dock within the IYC display.Originally priced at 16,900,000,− the price has been lowered to 15,400,000,- inclusive of a two-year shipyard warranty from the point of sale. Delivered in 2023, this long-range steel yacht embodies Moonen Yachts’ renowned Dutch engineering and superior craftsmanship, ensuring safety, stability, and an exceptionally quiet cruising experience.Designed by René van der Velden, the yacht’s sleek exterior is paired with a custom interior finished by London-based Studio Indigo. The yacht offers spacious accommodation for up to 10 guests, including a full-beam Owner’s Stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views, expansive exterior decks for socializing and dining, and a generous bridge deck. With an impressive 279GT of interior volume, the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202 delivers a luxurious cruising experience, combining impressive fuel efficiency, unlimited long-range cruising, and a shallow draft ideal for the balmy waters of The Bahamas.Representatives Matthew Stone and Richard Gray are eager to welcome visitors on board YN202 and will be joined by the Moonen team at PBIBS to showcase the all-new Moonen 122 Martinique YN205 and other exciting developments. For sales inquiries or to arrange a viewing, please contact the Global Sales Representatives.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
March 13, 2025
Gruppo Antonini announced its participation in the OMC - Offshore Mediterranean Conference & Exhibition from April 8 to 10 in Ravenna. This is a significant opportunity for Gruppo Antonini to showcase its expertise dating back to 1943 in the oil & gas sector, as well as to explore new possibilities arising from the energy transition.Serving as a focal point for the offshore energy industry, the OMC has grown in stature over the years, making it one of the most anticipated events in the sector. Gruppo Antonini will occupy its own booth to highlight its long tradition as an EPCIC contractor (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning) and showcase recent and ongoing projects.One notable project recently completed by Gruppo Antonini is the Maboqueiro gas platform, a structure weighing over 5,500 tonnes, which was entirely built and launched at the company’s La Spezia shipyard and neighboring engineering workshops. Delivered to customer Azule Energy at the end of 2024, the project spanned 24 months due to its complexity, stemming from its size and numerous interfaces. The final assembly phase of the platform, involving the positioning of the jacket and deck in the Atlantic Ocean, is scheduled to commence in March 2025, with Gruppo Antonini managing the hook-up operations, lasting approximately 45 days.Additionally, Gruppo Antonini has recently secured two significant orders from Mellitah Oil & Gas BV - Libyan Branch (National Oil Corporation of Libya and Eni North Africa): a gas production platform in Libya valued at €300 million and a Platform Compression Module for installation on the existing SABRATHA gas platform, 42 meters above sea level and 120 kilometers from the Libyan coast.Through its participation in OMC Ravenna 2025, Gruppo Antonini aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the offshore energy sector, highlighting its capabilities in executing complex projects and embracing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape.Credits: Gruppo Antonini
March 12, 2025
Revolution Marine Group and Silent Escapes have introduced a groundbreaking sustainable yacht financing model, the Credit Linked Note (CLN) investment model, facilitated by the Swiss company GenTwo. Already managing over USD 4 billion in assets, this innovative approach combines the simplicity of crowdfunding with the security of a regulated financial instrument.Ultra-green real estate developer Silent Escapes has adopted this method to finance the purchase of two Revolution S60 solar-electric supported catamarans, scheduled for delivery to the Bahamas in early summer 2025 and early 2026. The CLN model offers investors significant returns and exclusive yacht charter benefits.The funds raised by Silent Escapes will be used to acquire two state-of-the-art solar-electric catamarans from Revolution Marine Group, representing manufacturers including Revolution Yachts, Canados Heritage, and CL Yachts. These 60-foot, four-cabin catamarans offer silent, emissions-free cruising throughout the Caribbean, enhancing the eco-luxury experience at Silent Escapes' stunning Marina Point residences.The catamarans will generate revenue through membership fees linked to Silent Escapes' real estate sales and will be available for both commercial charter and promotional activities. Property owners at Silent Escapes will gain access to these yachts, offering them exclusive charter opportunities or shared access to the expanding fleet.The CLN model provides a highly secure investment opportunity with numerous advantages:Swiss-registered CLNs: Offered through GenTwo, with an ISIN code (CH1408701055).Annual Return: 14.25% over a two-year term.Additional Benefits: Qualified investors receive free all-inclusive charters, and investment credits toward Silent Escapes properties.Asset Security: Assets are secured by high-value solar-electric yachts and 100% solar-powered waterfront residences.The CLN can be purchased through any bank using the provided ISIN code, simplifying the investment process.Ed Sacks, CEO of Revolution Marine Group, stated, "By combining cutting-edge solar-electric technology, high-end luxury design, and eco-conscious investment models, we are excited to set a new benchmark for sustainable land and sea tourism." Victor Barrett, CEO of Silent Escapes, added, "Our innovative funding approach allows investors to purchase investment certificates directly from their bank, offering enhanced protection and flexibility."This collaboration exemplifies how sustainable practices can merge with lucrative investment opportunities, appealing to eco-conscious investors seeking both financial gains and unique experiential rewards.Credits: Revolution Marine Group, Silent Escapes
March 12, 2025