You need a heavy, robust ship for a big trip around the globe. Preferably one made of steel, but at least of aluminium. That's the traditional idea. But is that still true? Aren't GRP ships, and not one-offs but those built in large series, also suitable for long voyages? If you look at the list of participants at the recently concluded World ARC, there is only one answer.
Almost 40 cruising yachts set off a year and a half ago to sail around the world together. Among them were several German participants. The flotilla was organised by the English World Cruising Club. In YACHT 10/09 we reported in detail on the sailors' experiences and adventures.
They were all travelling with GRP yachts. Quite a few of them were from large series manufacturers: Bavarias, Jenneaus, Bénéteaus etc. They all mastered the 25,000-nautical-mile voyage largely without any problems.
On their return, we asked: How were the ships equipped? What were the difficulties? And last but not least: How much did the whole thing cost?
The results are surprising. Only this much can be revealed: Anyone who has always dreamed of going on a long voyage themselves will certainly have more than one less reason to hesitate after reading this article.
You can read the whole story in the new issue of YACHT (issue 11/09, available in newsagents from Wednesday).
Pascal Schürmann
Editor YACHT
