Spirit yachts could return every two years after 'superlative' inaugural regatta
Multi-million pound Spirit Yachts are likely to become a regular fixture off the island’s shores.
The final race in the inaugural Spirit Yachts Regatta takes place today after a week in the Little Russel.
And the man behind the British boatbuilder said he intends to bring the class back for a regular event.
‘It has without a doubt been one of the best regattas I have been a part of in the last 30 years,’ said founder Sean McMillan.
‘We hope to do this type of event here in Guernsey every two years going forward. Obviously we will have to take a proper decision at the end of the event, but everyone has had such a wonderful time, there is no doubt in my mind that we will do it again.’
Spirit Yachts were featured in the latest James Bond blockbuster No Time to Die.
Based in Suffolk, the company produces customised wooden sail and power yachts. There are just 76 Spirit Yachts in the world, most valued between £1.5m. to £3m., and 11 – drawn from as far afield as Scandinavia and the Mediterranean – made the trip over to Guernsey to compete in the regatta with 100 crew members. All stayed in local hotels or accommodation.
‘I think next time we could get 15, maybe 20 and then build it up from there, and I think eventually we could get 40 or 50 here to compete, which would be fantastic,’ Mr McMillan said.
‘It is hard not to fall into superlatives when discussing the experience over the last five days – the weather has been wonderful, the hospitality has been wonderful, the facilities are wonderful and most of all the sailing is absolutely fantastic, it has been so great.’
The regatta was organised by Spirit Yachts in partnership with the Guernsey Yacht Club and Locate Guernsey, which has promoted the island as a relocation option.
‘When the chance came up for us to sponsor this event I thought it was a bit of a no-brainer to say yes,’ said Jo Stoddart, director at Locate Guernsey.
‘Getting people who love sailing and are interested in boating over in our waters, in the summer, has been a great opportunity and it looks like they have all had a fantastic time this week.
‘So often people hear about Guernsey and talk about Guernsey, but actually getting them to come over and visit has always been the hard bit, so this has been a fantastic chance to showcase the island.
‘It has been lovely for us to see everyone coming here and showing such enthusiasm towards Guernsey.’
