Les Voiles de St. Tropez 2024

Fierce Competition and Victorious Yachts

The 25th edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, held fromSeptember 28 to October 6, 2024, delivered a week of exhilarating racing acrossits wide range of modern and classic yachts. In the Maxi A class, Cannonballtook the top prize, followed by North Star and Galateia, showingthe competitive spirit among the modern yachts. Wallyno dominated theMaxi C category, claiming the Barons de Rothschild Trophy. Meanwhile, in theclassic division, Varuna 1939 sailed to victory, winning the RolexTrophy in the prestigious Bermudan Yawl class, against stiff competition from Cometand Stormy

Close Finishes and Tactical Challenges

One of the most interesting incidents in this year’s regattawas the closely contested race between Nanoq, skippered by PrinceFrederik of Denmark, and Daguet 3, in the BMW Trophy category. With justone point separating the two, Nanoq secured the victory, leavingcompetitors battling it out in light yet variable Mediterranean winds thatchallenged even the most seasoned sailors. The weather across the eventprovided light to moderate breezes, demanding sharp tactical maneuvers from thefleet to gain an advantage.

Celebrity Attendees Adding Glamour to the Event

As always, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez attracted a host ofhigh-profile celebrities and yachting enthusiasts. Among the stars were Britishrock legends Pete Townshend from The Who and Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran, bothparticipating aboard classic Marconi sloops. The prestigious regatta also sawappearances from yachting greats like Marc Pajot and Jean-Pierre Dick,alongside Olympic medalists and America's Cup veterans. These renowned figures,combined with Saint-Tropez's glamorous setting, ensured that the socialatmosphere was as vibrant as the competition on the water.

Historic Races and Timeless Yachts

This year’s edition also celebrated the heritage ofyachting, particularly during the Trophée Gstaad Yacht Club Centenary Regatta,which saw century-old yachts race in close competition. The Club 55 Cup, atradition dating back to the first Nioulargue in 1981, once again saw the topmaxis My Song and Capricorno duel for supremacy over a 12-milecourse. Classic yachts like Tuiga and The Lady Anne also gracedthe regatta, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity that is unique toLes Voiles.

Conclusion: A Week of Thrills on the Water andFestivities on Land

The 2024 Voiles de Saint-Tropez marked an exceptional 25thanniversary, bringing together some of the world's most beautiful yachts in acelebration of both competition and camaraderie. With its stunning blend ofracing, entertainment, and celebrity appearances, this edition further solidified the regatta’s position as one of the most anticipated events on thesailing calendar. Whether on the water or at the exclusive social gatherings,Les Voiles continues to enchant participants and spectators alike

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