Karmatán II: A Legendary Heritage, Restored to Keep Racing

Dario D'Atri
May 29
2 min read

Few yachts in the classic Mediterranean fleet can boast a record as distinguished as that of Karmatán II. Designed by the legendary American naval architect John Alden and built in Barcelona in 1960 by Astilleros Viudes, this Bermudan ketch is a unique vessel that flawlessly blends the elegance of traditional lines with a sporting history that left a lasting mark on Spanish sailing.

At first glance, Karmatán II could be mistaken for a serene cruiser from the 1920s. Her flush deck, clean and well-proportioned, leads into a protected and understated cockpit—more fitting for relaxed passages than for competitive racing. Yet beneath this classic appearance lies a thoroughbred racer that, during the 1960s, achieved remarkable results in some of Southern Europe’s most demanding regattas.

Karmatán II won the prestigious Giraglia three times, one of the most iconic races in the Mediterranean. Especially memorable is her 1962 victory—the first ever by a Spanish-flagged yacht—an achievement that filled the national sailing community with pride. Her then-owner, Mr. Enrique Martorell Roca, was awarded honors by Spain’s sporting authorities. In 1968, under the command of Mr. Jacinto Ballesté, she won the Giraglia once again. This time, the recognition came from none other than Juan Antonio Samaranch, who awarded her the Silver Medal for Sporting Merit.

Like many of her generation, Karmatán II eventually faded into obscurity. But her story did not end there. Thanks to a meticulous, long-term restoration, she sails once again with dignity and poise, preserving her original materials, characteristic rigging, and traditional interior layout.

Now based along the Catalan coast, Karmatán II competes once more in classic yacht regattas and is welcomed as what she truly is: a living testament to the sporting and shipbuilding history of Mediterranean yachting. A yacht that not only represents a glorious past, but continues to write her legacy in the most prestigious gatherings of traditional sailing.