As an event par excellence for both amateurs and professionals in the F18 Class, the St- Barth Cata Cup has risen to the top ranks of regattas that offer a high level of competition. Many of the world’s sailing greats have competed in the Class, including Franck Cammas, Thierry Fouchier, Darren Bundock, Billy Besson, Yvan Bourgnon, Morgan Lagravière, Jérémie Lagarrigue and Marie Riou.

The success of the F18 Class is founded on events such as this, according to James Baeckler, president of the Association Française de F18. “These regattas ensure the success and longevity of a class. Without great races, there would be no boats or happy sailors,” says Mr. Baeckler.

Despite the challenges it faces with the arrival of foiling, the growing number of boats (GC32, A Cat, Diam 24, F16) and the choice of the Nacra17 as the official equipment for the Olympics, the F18 Class is still very much in favour with amateurs and professionals alike, who do not miss any opportunity to sail it. Benjamin Amiot, who sails with Flying Phantom and Gitana, explains why he’s coming back to the St-Barth Cata Cup.

“There’s always a high level of competition at this regatta, with people from the Olympics and ocean racing, and for us it’s an excellent way to compete at the end of the season. It’s true that recently we have used boats other than the F18, but we’ve always enjoyed sailing this platform, and even more so in the St-Barth.”

The F18: a class for everyone

The popularity of the F18 is due undoubtedly to its accessibility and great versatility. It has been refined over the years and has proven it can do it all: perform around three buoys and travel long distances in a raid. “When you look at those sailing the F18 in 2015, the raid is the most popular event, since it offers adventure, discovery and wide open spaces. Over the yars, it has become the 4X4 of sport catamarans,” said Mr. Baeckler.

The F18 has no equal when it comes to ownership costs and performance. It is also used for training young sailors, so they can measure up to F18 legends such as Billy Besson and Darren Bundock, who always return to the Class whenever the opportunity arises.

Looking forward to another exciting edition in a couple of weeks !