Surely one of the most talked-about entries in the 1997 Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, the 169-ft. schooner Adela is a perfect example of the Spirit of Tradition category. She combines respect for the past with today’s construction techniques, sails and equipment.

Helmed by America’s Cup winner Dennis Conner, Adela clocked the best elapsed time in her class winning the Sintra Trophy for Spirit of Tradition. In 1996 she averaged 12.36 knots to set the record for the 42 mile Guadeloupe Race, a record her captain Steve Carson earlier established in 1979.

Today’s Adela is the descendant of the Adela first built in 1903, then turned into a house boat in the thirties after an illustrious quarter century of racing and cruising. There she remained for fifty years until the present owner bought her remains to restore in 1993.

Unfortunately, as work progressed, it was clear that the old girl was in far worse shape than anticipated. Built in 3 in. planking on steel frames that had deteriorated, the construction was not salvageable. This led to the decision to build a new steel hull following original plans except for an updated underwater profile.

The builders incorporated much of Adelo’s original hardware and furnishings, even using the old teak planking for the deck and many interior features.

Just as the work was almost completed. however, disaster struck. In October 1994, a fire broke out in the boatyard where Adela was being finished, destroying everything on deck as well as part of the stern and interior. The builders had to take the whole interior out and start all over again. Fortunately, they were able to save some parts, which were lovingly incorporated in the reconstruction. Their work completed, the new Adela was launched in May 1995.

Adela is 140 feet on deck with a 99ft. waterline and 25ft. 6 in. beam. Her main mast rises 160 feet above the deck, and her 16ft. draft displaces 227 tons.

Perhaps the most noticeable feature of Adela under sail is her unique foresail which is fully battened and has an immense roach. Captain Carson explains, however, that this design allows the relatively small crew to make passages using only the foresail and headsails, a huge advantage over a traditional schooner sail plan.

Adela was designed and built to cruise around the world, entering other races welcoming such traditional designs as they occur. Carson and his crew will be heading for the Pacific in 1998 but we look forward to enjoying the marvelous sight of her under sail in the Caribbean again prior to her departure.

 From Antigua Classic Regatta Program 1998