With the Mediterranean as a stage and the skyline of Barcelona as its backdrop, the second day of the 18th Puig Vela Clàssica unfolded in spectacular style. A mix of shifting clouds, soft sunlight, and steady winds created the perfect atmosphere for another unforgettable chapter in what has become one of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious classic sailing events.
Organised by the Real Club Náutico de Barcelona, the regatta once again showcased yachting history in motion. Iconic yachts—some over a century old—glided just off the city’s beaches, drawing admiration from onlookers on land and sea alike. With stories that trace back to royalty and presidents, these vessels are living testaments to nautical craftsmanship, passion, and preservation.
A Floating Legacy Returns
Among the historic fleet, the legendary presidential yacht Manitou stood out. Once dubbed the “Floating White House” during the presidency of John F. Kennedy, Manitou served not just as a communications base but also, according to lore, hosted some of the most intimate episodes of Camelot history. Restored to its former glory, it now graces the waters of Barcelona once again, embodying maritime grandeur.
Not far behind in heritage and presence is the stunning GAEL I, built in 1962 by Abeking & Rasmussen and designed by Philip Rhodes. With her 23.16-metre wooden hull, classic lines, and a soul steeped in Mediterranean elegance, GAEL I remains a true gem of the regatta—chartering the balance between history and refinement.
Ideal Conditions, Tense Competition
With a consistent southerly breeze of 8–10 knots and calm seas, the fleet enjoyed near-perfect sailing conditions. The day’s course spanned 16.8 nautical miles, with a broad reach out towards Masnou and a close beat back to the Olympic Port, demanding strategy, coordination, and precision.
Race committee action began promptly at 13:00, launching one of the most exhilarating starts of the event. The Big Boat Mariska charged the start line at full speed before executing a clever port-tack manoeuvre, stealing early advantage—a move mirrored by Stiletto in the Modern Classic division.
The Day’s Winners – Precision and Poise
- Big Boat: Mariska (Dan Pojsak) took full advantage of Hallowe’en’s early start penalty, claiming the win and strengthening her lead in the overall standings.
- Classics I: Yanira (Jan Heuninck, RCN Barcelona) sailed a flawless race, finishing 25 minutes ahead of Nerissa, with Kahurangi close behind.
- Classics II: Clarionet (Andrew Harvey, BCYC) confirmed her dominance with a second straight win.
- Época Bermudiana: Amorita (Claudio Mealli) secured her second consecutive win by just 20 seconds over Argyll, with Manitou in third.
- Época Cangreja: Scheherazade (Luis Sánchez, RCN Palma) claimed victory ahead of Le Temps Perdu.
- Modern Classics: Despite a 3-point penalty, Stiletto (Scot Yeates, Suffolk YC) once again led the fleet, followed by Melbac and Legolas.
Mónica Xufré and Bakea: Sailing with Heart
One of the most inspiring stories continues to be Mónica Xufré, captain of Bakea, who proudly leads a crew made up of nine women out of fourteen sailors. A lifelong participant in the Puig Vela Clàssica since its inception, Mónica embodies the regatta’s spirit of inclusion, tradition, and joy. “Wooden yachts have a soul. I live and sail Bakea as my second home,” she said, reinforcing the human stories that give this event its rare warmth.
Barcelona: A World Stage for Classic Yachting
With the final race scheduled for tomorrow, anticipation builds along the docks and decks. Whether it’s for the stunning visuals, historic vessels, or the fierce competition, the Puig Vela Clàssica continues to affirm Barcelona’s status as the beating heart of classic yachting in the Mediterranean.
🏆 Day 2 – Official Winners (11 July 2025)
- Big Boat: Mariska
- Classic I: Yanira
- Classic II: Clarionet
- Época Bermudiana: Amorita
- Época Cangreja: Scheherazade
- Modern Classic: Stiletto
