Patricia and Christophe welcome us aboard this 1967 classic. They went to Italy to pick it up, its native country. But her architect is none other than "Jack" Laurent Giles. He is undoubtedly one of the most influential British yacht designers of the 20th century. Known for his 1000 designs, including the 1947 Fastnet winner "Myth of Malham", "Jack" Laurent Giles had these words for the construction of Ilaria: "Every yacht is the subject of a thorough study by the design office, combining the latest thinking of the architect and the owner with the fundamental aim of achieving the purpose for which the design and building were undertaken ." Ilaria was, above all, built for racing, "it must be given all possible characteristics contributing to this end - shape of the hull, sail plan and ballast ratio ."
Built in molded wood, the boat was completely restored in the early 2000s by the Beconcini shipyard, " the same one who built it 33 years earlier" says Christophe. Of a classic construction with its keel in iroko and Honduran mahogany, the deck plan is clear and has a large cockpit, " we make sure to keep it according to the original plans" he comments. The cabin is beautiful, thanks to its Italian charm. Crossed sofa, varnished mahogany furnishings, an invitation to travel in style.
How to best celebrate a boat's birthday, especially when it's half a century old? By sailing. The appointment is given at Port-Rhu in Douarnenez, the yacht's home port. Clear skies and 10 knots of wind are forecast. Patricia is at the helm, Christophe at the maneuvers.
Genoa and Yankee on drop stays are out to move Ilaria's 17 tons. " We kept the original name of the boat, it has a history and we wanted to keep it. Besides, it still flies the Italian flag."
As if on a rail, the boat is going at 6 knots. Direction, the peninsula of Crozon, on the other side of the bay for a picnic on the île Vierge - one of the 7 most beautiful beaches in France .
Kouign-amann is a must, to get some strength before going back up to the anchorage... by hand. In spite of a small DIY session, the windlass is still out of order, the remote control plugs are corroded, we'll have to go to the ship.
