2023 Argentario Sailing Week at Yacht Club Santo Stefano

2023 Argentario Sailing Week at Yacht Club Santo Stefano - Day 2

by Tessa Wiechmann 17 Jun 2023 15:54 BST 14-18 June 2023

Great racing conditions against a stunning Tuscan backdrop should never be taken for granted. Yet, few were surprised by the northwesterly breeze that built up 20 knots, by the blue skies or by the #bluflag beach of Giannella, the town of Porto Santo Stefano, the Island of Giglio and Montecristo as sight lines for mark roundings.

This is what happens at Argentario Sailing Week - organized by the Yacht Club Santo Stefano with the support of the Region of Tuscany and Municipality of Monte Argentario.

The 10 knots from 280 degrees at the start of the vintage gaff fleet at 11 am built up steadily as the race progressed, reaching 18-20 knots from 300 degrees on the final run, beat and finish line. Once again, this is the Kingdom in which Tacticians rule. ruled!

2023 Argentario Sailing Week at Yacht Club Santo Stefano - Day 2 - photo © Marco Solari

In the evening, the owners and crews of 115 years of sailing history enjoyed a dinner organized by the Yacht Club Santo Stefano in the Spanish Fortress built in the 18th Century, which overlooks the Argentario Bay. A magical way to wrap up the day.

As always, the Grandes Dames of the Sea are moored in Pilarella, the ancient port of Porto S. Stefano, where tourists and enthusiasts can admire the yachts up close from the pier promenade.

Racing continues until Sunday, 18 June 2023 with one race per day.

2023 Argentario Sailing Week at Yacht Club Santo Stefano - Day 2 - photo © Marco Solari

Vanessa (1974-Carcano) owner by Patrizio Bertelli
Every yacht has a chance to shine!

Olympic champion Torben Grael, winner of today's race aboard Patrizio Bertelli's Vanessa, back on the docks stated: "At Argentario Sailing Week, the different race courses allow every type of boat to shine, to find her soft spot and enjoy her preferred point of sail, at least for part of each regatta. Moreover, the race committee is truly impeccable in its decisions, and this, undoubtedly, makes a difference. Finally, there is a general desire to experience nature in all of its facets, which includes the breathtaking panorama and the warm hospitality on land. Hence, the word of mouth: at the end of the regattas all the crews are happy and they encourage other yachts to come and race at Argentario Sailing Week. Which explains the 25% increase of competitors compared to 2022 and the fact that 14 boats making their debut. As far as the new Classic IOR class goes, I think it was a great idea and hope that this will open the doors to many other boats. In my opinion, it doesn't matter what the boats are made of - be it wood, aluminum or fiberglass. What really matters are the water lines. I hope that going forward the class rule becomes increasingly clear to limit the possibility of subjective interpretations."

2023 Argentario Sailing Week at Yacht Club Santo Stefano - Day 2 - photo © Marco Solari

Lisa of La Tour (1958 - German Frers) owner Massimo Cavallaro
Tantalizing racing with a kick

Massimo Cavallaro, owner of Lisa of Latour and first timer at Argentario Sailing Week, spoke of racing Day 1: "It is the first time I race at Argentario Sailing Week, and I must say that it is a dream scenario! The racecourse is truly technically challenging and complex. It added quite a bit of salt and pepper to the day. The backdrop of the islands is so stunning that it is almost disorienting. It is hard to describe the beauty of seeing the Island of Montecristo on the horizon. The not windward-leeward course adds the extra kick. The tactical element in the strategic construction of the regatta is pivotal, as in truth, in Argentario it seems we are racing on five different courses. Racing @ Argentario Sailing Week is truly tantalizing".