The Corinthian Classic, a longtime Marblehead favorite, returns Saturday, Aug. 8, and Sunday, Aug. 9, celebrating vintage and classic yachts in Marblehead Harbor.
With nearly 30 boats registered, every entry has its own story. This year, however, one international crew from France is expected to be among the highlights.
“Every Corinthian Classic is outstanding and unique, for sure. This year will be incredibly special as we have the honor of hosting Viola, a 49-foot gaff cutter designed by the famed William Fife III and built in Scotland in 1908,” said longtime regatta director Tim Dittrich of the Corinthian Yacht Club. “What’s spectacular is that Viola is visiting from France and sailing as the representative of the Yacht Club de Monaco. She is gorgeous, and her condition is beyond Bristol in every way. Their crew has been together for years and certainly are classic characters.”
Spectators should keep an eye on the mouth of the harbor for Viola and its predominantly French crew, who will be flying the burgee of the Yacht Club de Monaco. Normally competing throughout the Mediterranean under longtime skipper Fabien Despres and his close-knit crew, Viola crossed the Atlantic to honor America’s 250th anniversary.
Nearly 30 boats are expected on the starting line, divided into three classes: Vintage, Classic and Modern Classic.
Also returning to the regatta is the America’s Cup 12-Metre Intrepid, brought by Marblehead sailor Ted Moore. Considered a breakthrough design in yachting history, Intrepid is expected to be among the fastest and most competitive boats on the course.
Another special visitor is Milk Money, a Manchester I-Class boat built in 1926 that is still owned by the Sayce family.
The Manchester I-Class occupies a unique place in American sailing history. Racing from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, these 30-foot yachts — with their surprisingly short 18-foot waterlines — proved to be exceptionally fast, durable and exciting competitors.
The fleet is expected to leave the harbor around 11 a.m. each day, with the first starting gun scheduled for noon. Because starts are staggered, races will continue into the late afternoon, giving spectators the opportunity to watch the finishes from Chandler Hovey Park.
