Sailboats that revolutionized ocean racing
Each Pen Duick has left its mark on its era through technical innovation and performance at sea. Pen Duick II, winner of the English Transat in 1964, was one of the first racing yachts to incorporate the concept of light displacement. Pen Duick III, launched in 1967, was the first tall ship built in aluminum, while Pen Duick VI, a true monster of the seas, won several editions of the Whitbread and the 1976 Transat. Today, these boats remain models of design and performance.
A living, sailing heritage
Unlike many classified boats that end up on static display, Pen Duick boats continue to sail. Partly managed by the Association Éric Tabarly, they regularly take part in major nautical events such as the Semaine du Golfe du Morbihan and the Fêtes maritimes de Brest. Pen Duick VI, still helmed by Marie Tabarly, is even pursuing a racing career, most recently in the Ocean Globe Race 2024.
Essential protection for conservation
Classification as a Historic Monument guarantees the preservation of these legendary boats on French soil. In addition to their symbolic value, this status also provides access to public funding for their maintenance and restoration. The Pen Duick V, already protected as a museum piece within the Musée National de la Marine, also benefits from this kind of special attention.
A future steeped in tradition
This recognition ensures that the Pen Duick will remain a part of France's maritime heritage, offering future generations the opportunity to admire and understand the work of Éric Tabarly. This classification is part of a wider initiative to safeguard classic sailing yachts, underlining the importance of maritime memory and the transmission of nautical know-how.
