Arrival of the MOD 70 Class in Dublin Bay

The arrival of the MOD 70 class boats at the conclusion of Leg One of their European Tour introduced Dublin Bay to an even more impressive fleet than Steve Fossett's Lakota which Round Ireland record in September 1993.

These vessels, 15% larger than Lakota yet significantly lighter and faster, exemplify the cutting edge of sailing technology. However, their speed is contingent upon favorable wind conditions. Originally, the plan was for the race to navigate from Kiel out of the Baltic, north of Scotland, and then down to Dun Laoghaire. Yet, with the forecast predicting severe gales in northern latitudes, the race was rerouted through the English Channel. In this topsy-turvy summer, the southern route offered little wind, challenging the sailors to adapt swiftly to the calmer conditions.