Battle of the giants

An interesting event took place off Monaco last Sunday morning when owners of two of the world’s largest sailing yachts went head to head in their own match race.

With Joseph Vittoria and Tom Perkins at the helms of Mirabella V and Maltese Falcon respectively, the yachts converged in 10-15 kts of breeze and sailed for an hour close-hauled in an increasing wind.

With Mirabella V restricted to jib and staysail due to her large reacher headfoil fastenings coming loose, and Maltese Falcon under full sail with her innovative rig, the advantage in speed went to Mirabella V.