Karmatan II

Few classic Mediterranean vessels can boast a track record like that of the Karmatán II . Designed by legendary American naval architect John Alden and built in Barcelona in 1960 by Astilleros Viudes , this Bermuda ketch is a unique piece that perfectly combines the elegance of traditional lines with a sporting history that marked a milestone in Spanish sailing.

At first glance, the Karmatán II could be mistaken for a quiet 1920s cruiser. Its clean, well-proportioned, full-deck opens into a sheltered, understated cockpit , more appropriate for a boat designed for leisurely cruising than competitive racing. But beneath that classic aesthetic lies a racing machine that, during the 1960s, racked up notable results in some of the most demanding regattas in southern Europe.

The Karmatán II won the Giraglia , one of the most emblematic races in the Mediterranean, three times. Its 1962 victory is especially memorable, the first time a Spanish boat had won the regatta , becoming a source of pride for Spanish sailing. Its then owner, Mr. Enrique Martorell Roca , was awarded a prize by the sporting authorities. In 1968, under the command of Mr. Jacinto Ballesté , it won the Giraglia again. This time, recognition came from Juan Antonio Samaranch himself , who awarded it the Silver Medal for Sporting Merit .

After years of glory, like so many other vessels of its generation, the Karmatán II fell into obscurity. However, its history didn't end there. Thanks to a meticulous and time-consuming restoration , it now sails with dignity and elegance, maintaining the essence of its original materials, its distinctive rigging, and its traditional interior layout.

Currently based off the Catalan coast, the Karmatán II is once again competing in classic sailing regattas and is being welcomed as what it is: a living testament to the sporting and constructive history of Mediterranean sailing , a boat that not only represents a glorious past but is still active and competitive in the most prestigious traditional sailing events.

Technical sheet – Karmatán II

• Name: Karmatan II

• Type: Bermudian Ketch

• Designer: John Alden

• Builder: Astilleros Viudes (Barcelona)

• Launch year: 1960

• Length: 11.99 m

• Beam: 3.30 m

• Draft: 1.70 m

• Displacement: 11.00 t

• Featured Story:

  
  

  • 3-time winner of the Giraglia

  • First Spanish victory at the Giraglia (1962)

  • Medal of Sporting Merit in 1968 awarded by Juan Antonio Samaranch

  
  

• Current status: Restored and active, based near Barcelona