Imagine a sleek, 35-meter racing ketch slicing through the waves, its green hull gleaming under the sun. This isn't just any yacht; it's Sojana, a legend in the sailing world, and it's just been sold. But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn't your average luxury yacht sale. It's a story of speed, heritage, and a touch of controversy.
The deal was sealed between Nicolas Marchand of Bernard Gallay Yacht Brokerage, representing the seller, and Hank Halsted of Northrop & Johnson, who brought the buyer to the table. Sojana, a custom-built high-performance ketch, first set sail in 2003, designed by the renowned Farr Yacht Design. Its mission? To be the longest and fastest yacht that could be handled by its owner and friends with minimal crew. And this is the part most people miss: in cruising mode, it operates with just five crew members, but it can transform into a full-fledged racing machine when needed.
Sojana has seen its fair share of upgrades. A full cosmetic and technical refit in 2016 was followed by major enhancements in 2022 and 2023, including a new engine, serviced generators, and state-of-the-art additions like North Sails 3Di sails, Hall Spars carbon rigging, and a B&G H5000 electronics suite. These improvements aren't just for show—they’ve kept Sojana competitive on the racecourse, where it has dominated events like the St. Barths Bucket, Antigua Sailing Week, and Palma Superyacht Cup. Under the late Sir Peter Harrison's ownership, it amassed a trophy case worth of victories.
Step inside, and you’re transported to an era of traditional yachting. Designed by Ken Freivokh, the interior features dark mahogany paneling and gold-plated fittings, exuding warmth and understated elegance. Accommodating eight guests in four cabins—two doubles, a twin, and a cozy 'kids' cabin'—Sojana balances luxury with functionality. The main saloon, with its built-in seating, plush sofas, and light-filled dining area, is the heart of the yacht. And let’s not forget the modern amenities: air-conditioning, Apple TV, a SONOS sound system, and even a sparkling water machine.
But here’s the controversial part: despite its impressive pedigree and recent upgrades, Sojana was last listed for €3,500,000. Is this a steal for a yacht of its caliber, or a reflection of a shifting market? According to BOATPro, it had been on the market since October 2023, raising questions about the demand for high-performance racing yachts in today’s luxury market.
With a beam of 7.7 meters, a draught of 4.5 meters, and a cruising speed of 10 knots under power (several knots faster under sail), Sojana is a marvel of engineering. But as it changes hands, one can’t help but wonder: what’s next for this racing icon? Will it continue its legacy on the racecourse, or will it find a new purpose under its new owner?
What do you think? Is Sojana worth every penny, or is the price a sign of the times? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
