Loick Peyron is a French navigator and skipper who specialises in multihull sailing (trimarans in particular) and ocean races. He was at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup 2023 on the 80-foot catamaran Highland Fling 18.

Loïck, is this your first time sailing here in Porto Cervo?

Loïck Peyron: On these types of boats, yes, but I first discovered Porto Cervo back in 1985 during the arrival of the first Round Europe race.

What type of boats took part in that regatta?

Loïck Peyron: Back then, there were the big monohulls and there were also big and small multihulls. I was sailing a 50-foot catamaran, which I used subsequently for many transatlantic voyages. It was quite interesting because the multihulls, especially the French ones at the time, were like the gypsies of the seas. So when we arrived in Porto Cervo, which was already a yachting temple, you could sense that we didn't quite fit with the local culture. But 40 years later, at least we are represented in this fleet.

This is the first time multihulls are taking part in the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. What are your thoughts on that?

Loïck Peyron: I think it's a great idea because, in essence, sailing is about the sea, the wind, and sails. It's about talent, skilled sailors, and passionate owners. Regardless of the number of hulls under your boat, you're still looking for fair competition. Multihulls add an interesting dimension to this category, especially the racing ones. There aren't many of them worldwide. There are plenty of cruising multihulls, but they don't belong in this context. These high-performance catamarans are exciting to race with, and I find it interesting to have them complement the monohulls rather than replace them. It provides another dimension to sailing.

As an experienced ocean-going sailor, are you enjoying this week of racing around the islands?

Loïck Peyron: Absolutely! I participate in many other races, but what makes this week special is the people. You get to meet people who have been a part of this for the past 30 years, and there are quite a few old-timers like myself. The sailing is fantastic, but the social aspect, especially the evenings like yesterday’s Crew Party with the enjoyable rugby match between the Kiwis and the French, adds to the ambiance and makes it super enjoyable.

One last question, is it more challenging to cross the ocean or race up against the rocks around the islands?

Loïck Peyron: If we were to rank difficulties, solo transatlantic or circumnavigation races, particularly on multihulls, are much more challenging to manage. However, racing around islands and rocks requires a different set of skills to win. That's the beauty of sailing; you can't declare someone the best sailor in the world. There's no such ranking. We all have different skills and ways of playing this game. It's just a game, nothing more. I think the most important thing is to remind everyone that it's just a game.