The new issue of YACHT places a special focus on blue water sailing. An extensive special is dedicated to the various aspects of long-distance sailing and offers both beginners and experienced sailors valuable information and inspiration. Particularly noteworthy is the portrait of Bobby Schenk, who at the age of 86 can look back on an eventful sailing life and has made a significant contribution to popularising long-distance sailing in Germany.
Circumnavigators and their return
Another rarely highlighted aspect of the blue water special is the report on long-distance sailors and their return to everyday life. Three crews talk about their experiences of how they mastered their return to life on land after long voyages. These personal stories provide an authentic insight into the challenges that can await those returning home after a circumnavigation. This range of topics is complemented by a report on the traditional Trans-Ocean club, which has recently attracted an increasing number of young sailors and thus shows that long-distance sailing is also attracting great interest from the next generation.
Dream destination Whitsunday Islands
Another highlight of the Blue Water Special is the report on the Whitsunday Islands off the east coast of Australia. Under the motto "Dreams in turquoise", the report takes readers on a journey to a true island paradise, which also has its pitfalls. In addition to the impressive wildlife with koalas and kangaroos, sailors must also reckon with potential dangers such as poisonous jellyfish and sharks. The article provides a comprehensive overview of this fascinating tropical area and gives valuable tips for cruising sailors who want to explore this area.
Sporty catamaran on test
A highlight of the current issue is the test of the Excess 13, a cruising catamaran that aims to break with the cliché of sedate multihulls. With this model, manufacturer Beneteau promises sporty cruising for ambitious crews. The detailed test report examines whether this concept works and whether the Excess 13 can really inspire the younger generation of sailors. The testers put the boat through its paces and share their findings on sailing characteristics, comfort and equipment. For anyone looking for a sporty catamaran that is also suitable for sailing, this article offers valuable decision-making aids.
Historic maritime cruiser with an eventful history
Under the heading "The special boat", we present the 100 seagoing cruiser "Overlord". Built in 1936 by Abeking & Rasmussen, this ship looks back on an eventful history. After the Second World War, the "Overlord" fell to England, where it is still used as a club ship today. The visit on board provides a fascinating insight into the history of this classic sailing vessel and shows how a boat that is almost 90 years old can still inspire people today. This article is an absolute must for lovers of classic yachts.
Practical tips for reefing
For practical sailing practice, the current issue offers detailed instructions on reefing the mainsail. Entitled "Reefing, but the right way!", the article explains step by step how best to reduce the surface area of the set mainsail on an upwind course. This not-so-easy process is explained in a clear and practical way, so that even less experienced sailors can benefit from the tips. The article offers valuable tips, especially for cruising sailors who want to be safe even when the wind picks up.
Further topics at a glance
We also have many other exciting topics in store:
- "Winter joys": A young couple report on how they transferred their boat to the Mediterranean after the local season to continue sailing there.
- New equipment: An overview of innovations for sailors from the "Mets" in Amsterdam, the world's largest boat accessories trade fair.
- SailGP: Helmsman Erik Kosegarten-Heil reports on the performance of the German team in the past season and the goals for 2026.
- Current: Information on the driving licence reform, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers and other topics from the sailing world.
- Sport: Report on the trouble over ORC race values for the XR 41, among others.
- Classic: Portrait of the Houaris boat "Alcyon", which is hopelessly overpowered but fantastic to look at.
YACHT 2/2026 is now available at newsagents and newsagents, and will soon be available in the Delius Klasing App ready for download. Or you can simply order them directly here...
