A superb day was had by all on board Big Spirit!
Our winner Edward Harrap was ecstatic to have won TheYachtMarket 2009 Southampton Boat Show Competition! He chose a few members and friends from the Ashlett Sailing Club.
After our breakfast skipper briefing and welcome we set off with a mix of with 12 novice and experienced sailors onto the Ocean Village jetty; where our former 72’ Challange Yacht, Big Spirit was awaiting. Her sheer size is only appreciated when you step aboard. A final briefing and we were off!
The wind was low to start with and we were going out on beam reach at around 6-7 knots. The large size and stability of Big Spirit makes this point of sail feel surprisingly slow; on a much smaller yacht, six knots is fast!
The sun managed to pop its head out few times but even the weather would not spoil this day for our lucky winners. Our winners even saw several of their friends out on other boats cruising in the Solent – Big Spirit must have look massive as she sailed past with her full sails up.
After our working lunch, the wind picked up and we put in a tack, sailing close-hauled. Big Spirit's in her element now, heeling over at over 10 knots with the gunwale in the water. Our 52 tonne race yacht sliced through the water effortlessly; this is what sailing is all about!
Everything on board is massive. From the sheets to the sails and winches; everyone simply has to get involved to enable her awesome power.
Throughout the trip Kurt our Skipper and Jonty, our Crewman, were both so calm, friendly and professional thought the day. Kurt’s deep knowledge and understanding of Big Spirit meant that a gentle turn and tweak here and there we were accelerating again and again to overtake other sail yachts on the Solent.
For any passionate sailor this was a treat, it was great to see all the smiles as everyone boarded to the moment they left! A huge thanks to Kurt our Skipper and Jonty, our Crewman, for making this sail a winning day out to remember for everyone!
Check out the photos of the Big “Spirit” Day here.
TheYachtMarket will be announcing our new U.K. Yacht Club Challenge Competition very soon!
For more information about our U.K. Yacht Club Challenge Competition please contact Richard Roberts customerservices@TheYachtMarket.com or telephone: 02380 421244.