Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2019

“The most beautiful regatta in the world” are the words most often stated about Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. Held each year on the French Riviera, it is a celebration of the world’s most beautiful boats – both classic and modern – and the party scenes and lifestyle ashore is second to none.

In addition to all the beautiful sailing boats, many of the biggest and best motorboats also gather in support. These include the latest modern and contemporary craft, as well as classic motor yachts such as Shemara, Haida and Talitha, once owned by the Bee Gees impresario Robert Stigwood.

For the 2019 event Skylark again faced Cippino II the Argentinian boat that has an almost unbeatable record. Blitzen, Argyll, Stormy Weather were all also competing after a long season of events around the Mediterranean.

The conditions for racing through the week were unusual and, whilst Skylark performed well on some days and less well on others, her overall result was not the best of the year. One notable race, Race 3, Skylark had an incredible start and sailed away from the whole fleet of 42 boats. Two thirds of the way through the race she was caught on the wrong side of a wind shift and lost all of the significant lead that she had gained. It was a painful way to end the season having performed so well and all the other events.

That said, and in summary, the 2019 season was amazing. A lot of fun and results that were some of Skylark’s best yet.