Sailing as a sport
Regatta
Even if it is uniquely beautiful to sit on the teak deck of one of Sailing-Classics’ yachts and watch the glitter of the light while RHEA, CHRONOS or KAIRÓS plow through the waves driven only by the wind – sailing can be practiced in the most diverse forms and at any age. There are an infinite number of – almost always fascinating – facets to sailing. For many people, it is therefore more than just a sport, but a lifestyle.
The oldest sports trophy in the world
Ever since yachts have existed, people have tried to compete in sports. The America’s Cup, the oldest sports trophy in the world, was created in 1851. It was held for the 37th time in 2024. Since then, numerous Regatta formats and boat classes have been developed. On the one hand, there are keelless dinghies, which can glide over the waves when there is enough wind and especially when the wind is sideways, almost doubling the boat’s speed. On the other hand, there are most cruising yachts, which are keelboats – without planing – that sail through the water at a speed of up to around half the wind speed.
For around 25 years, starting with Australian skiffs such as the 49er, there have been dinghies that can sail faster than the wind when planing. The apparent wind, i.e. the combination of wind and airstream, always comes from the front – a real quantum leap in sailing technology.
But what began around 15 years ago was an even greater revolution. Foils were attached to dinghies and yachts to lift the ship out of the water so that it “flies” on these wings. This multiplied the speed compared to conventional yachts. Some of today’s America’s Cup yachts reach over 50 knots (approx. 100 km/h). Boris Herrmann also sails around the world in the Vendée Globe with his “Malizia” on such foils – and on average at over 25 knots.
However, there is a big difference between class regattas, in which identical boats of one type or class compete against each other (as in the Olympic classes), and match race regattas, in which two boats sail directly against each other. The duration and distances are just as important: whether on a triangular course over a few nautical miles or in an ocean race over many nautical miles – the range is enormous and everyone can find their personal type of Regatta.
Overall, however, racing is only a small part of sailing. Most people simply enjoy being out on the water and letting the wind carry them along.
However, the countless factors that play a role in sailing remain unchangeable: the weather, the waves, the sails and their inflow, the boat, the handling and, of course, the physical condition and experience of the crew. Sometimes a pinch of luck is also involved. There is no comparable sport that is so versatile and fascinating. You can influence some factors with money – but not others.
No matter how and what you do under sail on the water:
Let’s go sailing!
If you would like to take part in a sailing tripRegatta, you can find our Regatta trips here.
