IN BRIEF |
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The second day of the 2025 Caribbean Multihull Challenge in St. Maarten was a thrilling spectacle of sail and sea, with competitors and enthusiasts alike embracing the dynamic conditions. The event brought together a diverse fleet of high-performance multihulls, each pushing the limits with grace and agility. With a forecast that promised a brisk wind, the day unfolded with a mix of intense competition and leisurely rallies. Both racers and spectators were swept into the enchanting atmosphere, highlighting the exhilarating world of multihull sailing.
The second day of the 2025 Caribbean Multihull Challenge in St. Maarten was nothing short of exhilarating. From thrilling races in the CSA division to scenic rally courses and the aggressive maneuvers of the Diam24s, the day was filled with action and emotion. With a robust breeze adding excitement and complexity for participants, the overall experience was both rewarding and challenging. Here’s a closer look at the day’s events.
CSA Race: Breath the Breeze!
The races commenced under invigorating conditions, with a consistent breeze of over 20 knots. As all competitors hoisted their mainsails post-bridge, anticipation was palpable. The decision to reef demonstrated astute seamanship, particularly on the large, swift multis. A noteworthy performance came from Marc Guillemot’s MG5 as it dominated the early stages, though a mainsail foot issue shifted the momentum. With the door wide open, Gunboat 72 Layla and HH66 Lee Overlay Partners III took advantage, seizing the lead.
The race offered idyllic conditions—an exhilarating 50 nautical-mile journey encompassing Saba and back. With a steady breeze, building offshore waves, and some stunning photogenic moments, it was a memorable day. Despite being first to cross the line, HH66 ceded top honors to Kimmo Nordstrom’s ORC50 “Calamity” due to time compensation. “Today was perfect for us as the breeze allowed us to showcase our capabilities. We started with a J1 sail to Saba and returned at full speed with a J2,” Kimmo commented enthusiastically.
Rally Division: Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses
What could be more idyllic than starting the day with a swim followed by a cappuccino under the Caribbean sun? As participants set sail from Great Bay, colorful foresails adorned the horizon, creating a picturesque downwind scene alongside St. Maarten’s southern coast. The course took participants around Les Terres Basses towards their northern destination, Anse Marcel.
The rally enjoyed a smooth day of sailing while savoring the tranquility of the sheltered bay. Evening gatherings in Anse Marcel promised more enjoyment and camaraderie, as participants relished the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Diam24: Upside Down, Boy You Turn Me!
The Diam24 showcasing delivered expected excitement and spray with its low freeboard in significant waves. Jan Sotelo’s ANOMALY, Ted Reshetiloff’s BUZZ RACE TEAM, and Erick Clement’s KARIBUNI formed a compelling vanguard, with visible sprays and occasional foamy crests across the fleet. The augmented sea state brought on by the breeze posed a challenge, curbing the trimarans’ top speeds and adding tension.
An interrupted day and adherence to safety instructions were dictated after Pierre Altier’s CRY BABY capsized during Race #7. “We achieved a top speed of 19 knots in conditions not ideal for our light boats. Though capsizing was unfortunate, safety remains crucial, and recovery was swift,” explained Noah, the day’s skipper for Cry Baby, reflecting on the day’s challenges.
- Discover more about the Caribbean Multihull Challenge: caribbeanmultihullchallenge.com
- For a detailed race report, visit: caribbeancompass.com
- Additional insights from Day 2: sail-world.com
- Preview of the event: sail-world.com
- Watch event highlights: Facebook
2025 Caribbean Multihull Challenge Day 2 Highlights
| Event | Details |
| Morning Start | Crews prepared amid 20+ knot winds |
| CSA Race | All participants took the first reef |
| MG5 Setback | Mainsail’s foot broke, but thrilling chase ensued |
| Saba Round Trip | Idyllic journey, approximately 50 nautical miles |
| Winning Vessel | Kimmo Nordstrom’s ORC50 Calamity took the honors |
| Rally Division | Sailed from Philipsburg to Anse Marcel |
| Surprise Events | Awaited in Anse Marcel for rally participants |
| Diam24 Conditions | Breezy with high waves, leading to a rough day |
| Race Stopped | Safety concerns after capsizing incident |
| Top Speed | 19 knots recorded amid challenging conditions |
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CSA Race
Breeze-filled day with fast multis
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Key Player
Marc Guillemot’s MG5 shines, despite sail issues
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Rally Division
Morning swims and gentle sails to Anse Marcel
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Diam24 Action
Challenging conditions with impressive speed and skill
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Sailing Strategy
Reefs and reduced sail area for control
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Standout Performance
HH66 “CALAMITY” excels with time compensation