Marstrand in August 2026: Sailing enthusiasts regard the mahogany racing yachts built between 1933 and 1939 as among the most beautiful sailing boats ever built. Fewer than twenty surviving yachts from this period were built to the Third International Rule for the 12mR class, and a dozen of them are still actively raced today. The rule played an important part in the Olympic Games and in regattas such as the America’s Cup. Eight of these beauties, all more than twenty metres in length, have entered this year’s 12mR Vintage World Championship in Marstrand – and, together with them, we arrive on the opening day in front of the Royal Swedish Yacht Club (see above), where we can chat with members of the crews and admire these magnificent vessels at close quarters. They fly the flags of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Germany and Great Britain.

We observe the crews of the various nations, each with their own particular ways, as they haul sails ashore for measurement, replace roller furling forestays with wire forestays, carry out final repairs, tie on sponsors’ flags, and greet old acquaintances with lots of pats on the shoulders – all the while radiating that taut, festive, proud atmosphere that tends to prevail on the eve of a major sporting event. Those watching who sail themselves appreciate the fascinating juxtaposition of old mahogany-and-brass elegance with the latest high-technology materials in the running rigging, spars and sails.

Below: Training begins the following day – unfortunately, the Twelves are so fast that from ashore they can usually be seen only as tiny specks on the horizon (see below: the British Flica immediately after setting sail). As most of them still have no engine of their own, however, there is ample opportunity to watch them being towed out of and back into the harbour.