"France II", 12 Metre JI Class, Converted Ocean Racer Lying Spain
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Owner's Comments
France II was built by Egger for the French association for the America’s Cup. The 12m JI was initially intended for boat racing. She has had several owners and several modifications. The main modifications were initiated by the present owner and after years of labour the boat was transformed into a performance cruising yacht by adding accommodation to the interior, setting up the engine and other machinery in good running order and replacing the rig and masts and superstructure. Impressive electronics includes Satcom, TracVision Satellite fax-TV system, watermaker, generator, reverse cycle heating / air conditioning. Teak deck. Up to date rigging and new sails. HistoryFRANCE II A magical name that brings back so many stories and challenges…. First, that Baron Bich who, helped by André Mauric, undertook the construction of the boat in 1976 at Egger Shipyards in order to compete in the America’s Cup. Then that of John Park Wright III who launched the famous challenge of the Florida Cup at Nioulargue and whose personality has left such an unforgettable mark on all the races of that time. Then finally my husband who during a freezing December 90 night had a dream: to become the owner of the France II and to carry on it’s fabulous story. And so began the greatest of challenges: to turn France II into that most beautiful and comfortable cruise boat as well as a top racing machine. A challenge that was a near impossible dream to realize! Four long years were needed for her transformation, during which dreams became dissolving mirages within days. We despaired of ever seeing her float again. And then suddenly … on a splendid September 95 day, she left her hangar where five marine carpenters had worked for so long. Under escort, she joined the Mediterranean. A few days before the Rolex Cup in July 1996, Mr. Kodhara of Saint Tropez Yacht Club begged us to take part. We consented and it was fantastic. What an atmosphere and what boldness to measure ourselves against those “superb 12 meters”, racing boats made for victory: Vim the very handsome Nyala, the blazing Italians Victory and Italia, Freedom and Columbia, and, not forgetting French Kiss which won every race. We didn’t come in first, but we weren’t last either… and we took the “Prix de l´Elégance”. A superb boat, a crew irreproachable in their conduct and uniform; everything to bestow honour on the France Yacht Club. And… the second race to come along: the Jury’s Cup in Marseille on the 15th and the 16th September 1996: magnificent sun, a 15 knots wind, everything to please France II.. and she won all of the rounds! First ahead of II Moro di Venezia, La Poste, Calaf, Premier Novembre, etc. This time, its wasn’t exactly the Prix de l´Elégance which had made the Italians smile so smugly.. France II is very proud of her achievement and of her beautiful cup. She has taken part in the Royal Regattas of Cannes, finished 4th at the France Yacht Club Autumn Cup and was at Nioulargue. Wishing swift winds to France II and may beautiful cruises and good regattas under Y.C.F.´s colours. Translated Article from EN MER and written by the owners wife France II is ready to go anywhere. Probably one of the fastest blue water cruising yachts. The France II is used as private pleasure boat sailed with professional crew. Her general condition is perfect .
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