DEBUT AND GEARS UP FOR RECORD-BREAKING SW RENDEZVOUS AND TROPHY
Three days of unusually light breezes characterized the 2025 edition of the prestigious St. Barths Bucket. Despite the challenging conditions, SW96 Liberty showcased her impressive performance capabilities, securing second place in the Corinthian “L’Esprit” class.
Naval Architect and mainsail trimmer Jim Schmicker, who was on board, commented on Liberty’s performance: “Liberty showed great all-around performance in the light, difficult conditions. I was especially pleased with the downwind speed using just the Code Zero and main. Our competitors were very complimentary of Liberty’s speed and ability to outperform her handicap. Liberty’s exceptional maneuverability and acceleration were a key reason for our success in the very light winds not usually seen in St. Barths.”
To accommodate the forecasted light air, the race organizers assigned shorter courses for pursuit races that saw 26 superyachts, ranging from 28 to 56 meters, compete across seven classes.
Liberty’s owner expressed his satisfaction:“I couldn’t have asked for a better debut at this prestigious regatta. The yacht performed to the best of my expectations, especially considering the challenging light wind conditions that made every tactical choice crucial. I am truly grateful to my permanent and professional crew, whose energy, dedication and experience played a key role in achieving such a result. Having our Naval Architect, Jim Schmicker, on board was invaluable — his guidance helped the yacht reach its highest potential. We also benefited from the experience of key members of the Southern Wind team.”
Our CCO Andrea Micheli, trimmer on board, had these words: “Spending the last five days trimming the Code Zero confirmed me that the SW96 Liberty strikes the perfect balance between comfort and performance. Just 24 hours after finishing a ten-day cruise, she was on the starting line, training and racing competitively. And only 24 hours after crossing the finish line, she was seamlessly back in full cruising mode, ready for the next adventure.”
SW96 Liberty will soon sail from the Caribbean to Porto Cervo, where an eclectic fleet of Southern Wind yachts awaits for what promises to be more great fun at sea. This year’s SW Rendezvous and Trophy, taking place within the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta in Porto Cervo (27-31 May 2025), is set to be a record-breaking edition.
The enthusiasm for the Corinthian Spirit format, which emphasizes fair and enjoyable racing, has drawn an exceptional number of Southern Wind yachts.
Ten yachts have already confirmed their participation, with 80% competing in the Corinthian Division:
SW108 Gelliceaux
SW105 Kiboko 3
RP-NAUTA100 Morgana
SW100 Grillo Parlante (ex Cape Arrow)
SW100 Agapi Mas
SW96 Liberty
SW96 Nyumba
SW96 Ammonite
SW94 Magic Blue
SW82 Grande Orazio
With three more yachts eager to join, this will be one of the largest Southern Wind fleets ever assembled, representing 70% of the overall Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta fleet.
Liberty, fresh from her impressive performance in St. Barths, is ready to take on the challenge and shine once more on the podium.
Well done to the Liberty team — see you in Porto Cervo!
