Classics: The majesty of Les Voiles Few yachts embody maritime legend like Atlantic . Launched in 1903 for Wilson Marshall, the 64-meter, three-masted schooner quickly lived up to its reputation. In 1905, under Charlie Barr’s command, she set a transatlantic record during the Kaiser’s Cup that would stand unbroken for 75 years. Designed by William Gardner, Atlantic combined speed with Pullman-style luxury: five.
Classics: The majesty of Les Voiles Few yachts embody maritime legend like Atlantic . Launched in 1903 for Wilson Marshall, the 64-meter, three-masted schooner quickly lived up to its reputation. In 1905, under Charlie Barr’s command, she set a transatlantic record during the Kaiser’s Cup that would stand unbroken for 75 years. Designed by William Gardner, Atlantic combined speed with Pullman-style luxury: five cabins, three bathrooms, a vast saloon, all steam-heated and lit through retractable chimneys hidden beneath her sails. After a long career under multiple owners, she was dismantled in 1982, before being meticulously rebuilt in 2010 by Ed Kastelein. Now, she makes her first-ever appearance at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, joining eight other Big Boats in contention for the Rolex Trophy, while also celebrating the 120th anniversary of her legendary 1905 record. During this historic crossing, Atlantic covered 341 miles in a single 24-hour period, achieving an astonishing average speed of 14.1 knots.
The Mediterranean’s summer squalls have not spared this venerable fleet: Tuiga , the 15mJI and 2024 winner at Les Voiles, was dismasted in Mahon in 60-knot gusts, while lightning struck the rigging of schooner Invader . Yet the entry list testifies to the vitality of the Traditionals and to the magnetic appeal of Les Voiles. Enthusiasts await with anticipation the debut of Cariad , a 36-meter Arthur Payne ketch from 1896, along with the return of iconic yachts such as the 23m JI Cambria (winner in 2010), Black Swan (a 40-meter Camper & Nicholson ketch from 1899), and Croce del Sud , a majestic 43-meter three-masted schooner.