It is a beautiful day in Saint Tropez. The weather is gorgeous, the wind is blowing, and the crowd is jovial. The 2017 Les Voiles de Saint Tropez is chomping at the proverbial bit to hear the fife and drum welcome announcing the start of the 19th edition of this respected competition.
Hundreds of sailing yachts gather for this iconic, end of season regatta, fitting nicely into the Venn diagram of boat class description. The classic sailing yachts, built anywhere from around 1899 to the 1960s, celebrate handcrafted wood, polished brass, and traditional white sails. The modern yachts; stronger, faster, and more technical, sport carbon fiber throughout with sophisticated electronics and hulls built for speed. That means 14 boats in the harbor defy description under these terms, commanding their own classification. That would be the Wally Class.
Vive la différence
The distinctions made between a Wally sailing yacht and any other marque are many. The privilege of sailing a Wally is an experience shared by a select group with a deep passion for sailing, combined with an appreciation for performance. This group also demands style, in a big way. Most high performance yacht designers would consider such amenities unnecessary embellishment that hinders speed. On a Wally, however, it is just another opportunity to improve.
Consider the Formula One race car. One would never think to ask if these superfast, highly technical vehicles are also comfortable. Similarly, if one were purchasing gear for a technical climb of Mt. Everest, concerns about stylish appearance might give way to warmth and durability. How is it then, that Wally sailing yachts have achieved the trifecta of performance, comfort, and style with what, at first glance, seems effortless ease?
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