Kevin Wallis, Managing Director of Spirit Yachts Australia and New Zealand, summed up the event with enthusiasm: “It was simply awesome! To see these yachts racing side by side, in such an iconic location, was unforgettable. Both crews gave it everything, and the tactical precision on display was second to none.”
A spectacle of craftsmanship and competition
The regatta began at Sandhamn (Sweden), the summer base of the Royal Swedish Yacht Club (KSSS). This location, steeped in yachting history, was a fitting venue for the clash of these stunning vessels. On day one, three short-course windward/leeward races were held under near-perfect conditions, echoing the precision-focused style of the America’s Cup.
Each race was fiercely contested, but Geist proved dominant, claiming three straight wins. The intensity of the competition was matched only by the camaraderie of the crews and owners, who later gathered for a traditional Swedish celebration at the Sandhamn Seglarhotell.
Day 2: Thrilling passage racing
The second day featured a 30-nautical-mile passage race weaving through the scenic Stockholm archipelago. With 30,000 islands providing a dramatic backdrop, Gaia fought back to claim two of the day’s three legs. However, Geist secured her overall victory with an impressive performance in the earlier stages of the race.
The owner of Geist reflected on the experience: “This was the first time we had raced as a team, and the conditions were incredible—flat seas, 20-25 knots of wind, and great competition. It was an unforgettable challenge and a real eye-opener for what the yacht and crew can achieve.”
New Zealand’s place in modern classic yachting
Although the regatta unfolded in Swedish waters, its significance extends far beyond Europe, touching on New Zealand’s own rich yachting culture. Events like this showcase the very best of modern classic design and craftsmanship. With New Zealand’s reputation for yachting innovation and its world-class marine industry, seeing yachts like Geist and Gaia making their way to our shores for similar head-to-hea match racing would be defining.
New Zealand offers not only idyllic cruising grounds but also the technical expertise and infrastructure to host events that celebrate the fusion of tradition and innovation. The marine industry, already thriving with superyacht visits and America’s Cup-inspired projects, could benefit significantly from attracting these iconic yachts.
A commitment to sustainability
Spirit Yachts has built its reputation not only on timeless craftsmanship but also on a dedication to sustainability. Constructed from sustainably sourced timber and incorporating cutting-edge technology, these yachts are designed with minimal environmental impact in mind. This aligns closely with New Zealand’s focus on greener marine practices, making Spirit Yachts a natural fit for Kiwi waters.
A legacy of innovation
Founded in 1993, Spirit Yachts is synonymous with modern classic yacht design. Based in Ipswich, UK, which itself is rich with maritime history, the company produces bespoke vessels that blend elegance, performance, and sustainability. Geist and Gaia exemplify this ethos, proving that tradition and innovation can thrive together in the world of luxury sailing.
The future of match racing
With the success of this historic event, there’s growing hope for similar match races in the future. For New Zealand, the possibility of hosting such an event offers an exciting opportunity to attract global attention to its pristine waters and vibrant sailing culture.
Wallis concluded with optimism: “This match race was a testament to what’s possible when you combine passion, craftsmanship, and competitive spirit. It’s the kind of event that inspires sailors around the world, and I’d love to see New Zealand take centre stage for the next chapter.”
Could the Bay of Islands or Auckland Harbour be the next stop for Spirit Yachts? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the spirit of modern classic sailing is alive and well, and New Zealand is perfectly poised to join in the celebration.
For more information about Spirit Yachts, visit Spirit Yachts Australia and New Zealand.
*The KSSS (Royal Swedish Yacht Club) was founded in 1830, and it is Sweden’s largest and the world’s second largest sailing club (source https://www.ksss.se/)
About Spirit Yachts
Spirit Yachts is the world leader in modern classic yacht design and build. Based on the east coast of the UK, Spirit Yachts has a portfolio of customised, wooden sail and power yachts ranging from day sailors to superyachts.
Established in 1993, Spirit Yachts was founded by Sean McMillan and Mick Newman, who set out to offer yacht owners a beautiful, unique, and sustainably-sourced alternative to fibreglass production boats. This goal remains at the core of the company’s ethos today.
From humble beginnings in the Suffolk countryside, Spirit Yachts now operates from a large waterside facility in Ipswich with a highly skilled team of designers, naval architects, boat builders, cabinet makers, electricians, and engineers.
Built using the highest quality, sustainable timber and incorporating the latest technology, Spirit yachts are designed and commissioned to suit an owner’s individual criteria. Every Spirit is unique.
Passionate about sustainability, Spirit Yachts has won international awards for its commitment to lowering the carbon footprint of the company and its yachts during construction, operation and at end of life.
Unlike many yacht builders, Spirit Yachts conducts the design and build process in-house at its waterside headquarters in Suffolk. With designers and builders in one location, communicating and working collaboratively, Spirit offers customers a seamless journey from initial design to the launch of the finished yacht.
For more information on Spirit Yachts, please contact Kevin Wallis at: (e) kw@spirityachts.com.au or (m) +61 414 254 666.
Follow Spirit Yachts Australia and New Zealand on Facebook and Instagram (@spirityachts.au_nz).
