Aboard Grillo Parlante with owner Fausto Sestini: "Towards a round-the-world trip"

by Alberto Mariotti | SuperYacht24

Three years of sailing the Mediterranean, a refit, and an ambitious goal. The owner of the 100-foot Southern Wind discusses his operating philosophy, technical management, life on board, and his relationship with the crew.

Spotted off Porto Cervo, Sardinia, during training for the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, SW100RS Grillo Parlante (formerly Cape Arrow) is one of the most well-known vessels built by Southern Wind and the last under the management of engineer Persico. At 30,26 meters long, she features naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design, with interiors and decks by Nauta. The current owner, Italian yachtsman Fausto Sestini, recently completed a major conservation refit, including a new color, at Sangiorgio Marine in Genoa. SUPER YACHT 24 met with him at the dock to learn more about the work done, the sailing plans, and the technical management, crewing, and maintenance of a 100-foot vessel designed for long-range sailing.

Sestini, how did you end up at Cape Arrow, now Talking Cricket?
“One Wednesday, I received an email that Cape Arrow was for sale. On Thursday, I went to Porto Mirabello to see her and immediately fell in love with her. By 7:30 on Saturday morning, I had already submitted an offer, and after a brief negotiation, I took possession of her. I’ve been the actual owner for a few months. The boat needed to be restored to its former glory, and today I can truly say that she’s back to her former self.”

What is the long-term plan?
“Sailing around the world. It’s a dream I’ve had for years, ever since I was a child, listening to my father’s plans: the most important one was sailing around the world; he failed, and I took up the mantle. That’s where the name of the boat comes from: the idea of listening to that little voice, that ‘talking cricket’ that tells you to do what you want, without putting it off too long. Because then, maybe something will come along that won’t allow you to do it anymore. The idea is to start sampling the Atlantic and then, perhaps, extend the route a bit further. This is a boat that allows you to think about sailing like that. The Red Sea was another idea, but now is not the time, and it wouldn’t make sense to force things. All the work we’re doing, and all these miles, are an investment in being ready, with peace of mind, for something more important.”