35th German Classics: Classic yachts deliver spectacular images off Laboe

The Friends of Classic Yachts organised the 35th edition of the German Classics regatta last weekend. In addition to challenging races on various courses off Laboe, there was above all good music and excellent food on land.

After the reception on Thursday, two races were sailed on classic triangular courses in Strander Bucht on Friday. 3 to 5 Beaufort provided plenty of action, especially on the rough courses. Apart from a few torn spars, however, there were no losses to lament.

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Saturday, on the other hand, was characterised by very light winds, but the long distances to just before the Kiel lighthouse were still possible. As on the previous evening, there was a colourful programme on land afterwards. For the first time, the classic regatta was held together with the Labo harbour festival, which not only created a great atmosphere, but also made the organisation easier in some places.

Decline in participants at Germany's classics highlight

The German Classics is the oldest and largest event of its kind in Germany. It dates back to the "Veterans' Regatta", which was launched in 1989 and quickly developed into the nucleus for a veritable renaissance of the North German classic fleet. Many yachts owe their survival to the spirit of this meeting, which prompted the owners to preserve and restore their yachts to their original condition.

While 70 classic yachts made the journey to the fjord last year, only 38 boats were at the start. The circle of friends cites various reasons for this in connection with the choice of date. On the other hand, the large number of young people on the four twelve-oared boats and other cruiser yachts gives hope for a rosy future.