In 2001 three friends conceived a grand 21st century sailing tradition for classic yachts – a rally of special friends, old and new.
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Covering some 680 miles from Saint-Tropez to Grand Harbour Marina in Malta, and visiting four of the most exotic ports in the Mediterranean, that event is the Trophée Bailli du Suffren.
The Mediterranean’s most beautiful yacht race is also its longest race for classic yachts. Now in its 15th edition, the Trophée Bailli du Suffren is run over three legs:
Leg 1: Saint-Tropez to Porto Rotondo, Sardinia (193nm) Leg record: Atlantic
22h 24m 30s (2013)
The old town of Saint-Tropez provides an unforgettable backdrop for the race start, and the fleet perform a short lap of the bay for the delight of the spectators on the Mole Jean Reveille before heading offshore for their first night at sea.
Leg 2: Porto Rotondo, Sardinia to Palermo, Sicily (252nm) Leg record: Mariska
1d 15h 40m 40s (2013)
The second leg may appear straightforward, with an uncomplicated departure from Porto Rotondo followed by the direct route south east across the middle of the Tyrrhenian Sea. But the vagaries of wind, weather and racing strategy mean that the shortest route is not necessarily the fastest.
Leg 3: Palermo, Sicily to Grand Harbour, Malta (233nm) Leg record: Mariska
1d 4h 47m 18s (2013)
The final leg of the Trophée Bailli de Suffren starts with a 90nm coastal section around Sicily’s western capes and through the beautiful waters of the Egadi Islands nature reserve. The complex topography, especially along the island’s north coast, make big gains and losses possible, putting a premium on the competitors’ tactical and navigational skills.
The overall winner of the Trophée Bailli de Suffren in 2015, and current holder of the Sword of Honour of Admiral Satan, is Patrick Gibert, captain of Lelantina.
