Bendigedig, the S&S 34 of Dafydd Hughes is a fantastic boat for a blessed project
by Margherita Pelaschier 22 Aug 2023 14:22 BST
Dafydd Hughes & Bendigedig © Global Solo Challenge
Dafydd Hughes, the only Welsh skipper participating in the Global Solo Challenge, is preparing to embark on his voyage aboard Bendigedig, a Sparkman and Stephens 34 (S&S 34) — a boat that has become a widely recognised symbol of solo adventures.
Dafydd's contagious smile has earned him a substantial community of followers that roots for him and his mission. Living by his motto "Dream, commit, conquer!" his dedication shines through, especially in his decision to breathe life back into his boat, which had lain untouched in a barn for a decade.
"For me, embarking on a round-the-world circumnavigation is more about the journey than the destination. While completing the entire voyage would undoubtedly be a remarkable bonus, even if I make it only halfway or three-quarters through, it remains an incredible adventure. Simply getting to the starting line poses its own set of challenges and is an integral part of the adventure."
Upon hearing the announcement of the GSC launch, Dafydd didn't hesitate to pursue this dream, but he knew he had to find the perfect boat to achieve it. "It feels as though the boat chose me. With my budget in mind, I naturally gravitated towards a 34-35-footer, and then one day, a friend called me, saying he had found the perfect boat for me."
Dafydd went on to purchase a 1971 Sparkman and Stephens 34, built by the Aquafibre shipyard, which he christened Bendigedig. "My Bendigedig is incredibly seaworthy and excels when sailing upwind. While its hull is tapered, causing a slight rock, she's remarkably solid. When you drop a tool, like a spanner, it sounds muted, almost like it's hitting solid concrete. She's primed for a new voyage, and I gave her a second lease on life."
The S&S 34 is a remarkable testament to nautical design and versatility, establishing a profound mark in the sailing community. This cruiser/racer fibreglass monohull, born from a design by the venerable Olin Stephens of Sparkman and Stephens, was originally commissioned by the British yachtsman Michael Winfield.
Derived directly from the prototype of a 36' wooden one-tonner named Morningcloud by Winfield, this design quickly matured into what we now recognize as the S&S 34. Established as a new class in 1968, it saw immediate success on the racing scene.
Two mould sets were developed for its construction. The initial set found its way to UK boat builder Winfield & Partners/Acquafibre, while the latter travelled to Australia, ending up with the esteemed Perth boatbuilder Swarbrick and Swarbrick. Since its inception, about 200 boats have graced waters globally. Its reputation was further solidified when Sir Edward Heath became the owner of the first production S&S 34, christened Morning Cloud.
This vessel didn't just win admiration, it conquered the 1969 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and clinched a class win in the Fastnet Race off Cowes. The S&S 34 models continued to dominate the Sydney-Hobart race from 1969 to 1974 and attained various other noteworthy victories.
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