SKAW [A] in the running for the 2027 European Yacht of the Year Title?
by Agence TB Press 13 Oct 16:08 BST
19-24 October 2026
Following several days of sea trials in Lorient, the SKAW [A], the latest creation from bespoke yacht designer SKAW Sailing, set off late last week on its first long-distance passage towards Palma de Mallorca.
From 19 to 24 October, it will be put through its paces by the jury of the European Yacht of the Year 2027, alongside other contenders vying for this prestigious title.
It has been a hive of activity at SKAW Sailing in Lorient over the past few days. Caroline Boule, Benoît Marie and their team have been working tirelessly on the SKAW [A], their highly innovative first yacht. After validating the various sailing systems and equipment, SKAW Sailing completed the yacht's interior fit-out before setting course for Spain, with Benoît Marie on board, ahead of the SKAW [A]'s first proper presentation both at sea and alongside the dock.
"Since the Cannes Yachting Festival, where we presented the SKAW [A] through images and renderings, we haven't had a moment to spare in Lorient as we've been preparing the yacht," explains the designer behind this new sailing yacht.
"We've carried out a series of sea trials off Lorient to make sure everything is working as it should. We've validated numerous elements, including the sails, the sail trim and countless small details. I can confidently say she's off to a great start. She's incredibly easy to sail, exceptionally light and smooth on the helm, and straightforward to handle. We have a very solid foundation.
Leaving for a long sail aboard the SKAW [A] was a moment of immense joy for me. We're currently off the coast of Portugal, and everything is going perfectly, despite the light winds.
This sail to Palma is very much part of our planned development and testing programme. It will allow us to continue refining the yacht and ensure we present her in the best possible way in Palma, even though she's still undergoing full-scale sea trials."
The SKAW [A]'s maiden odyssey is now under way. This groundbreaking new sailing yacht has attracted considerable attention in recent months, as it challenges conventions and pushes the boundaries of what is possible in fast, comfortable cruising.