Following her memorable debut in last year’s Aegean 600, Maltese yacht Artie III is gearing up for another ambitious campaign in this renowned offshore race.
Set to start on July 6 from at 2pm in Sounio, Athens, the Aegean 600 is a gruelling test of endurance, skill, and seamanship – a challenge that demands both experience and expertise from every crew member.
Co-skippered by Lee Satariano and Christian Ripard, Artie III’s experienced crew includes Mathieu Almekinders, Simon De Gent, Koen de Smedt, Nicky Fenech, E.J. Van Housselt, Sam Pizzuto, Jake Satariano.
The team is currently in the final stages of preparation, with plans to load the yacht with safety gear, sails, and provisions by the third week of June before departing Malta at the end of the month.
The crew expects to arrive in Athens by July 2, allowing time for final checks and race briefings.
The Aegean 600 is celebrated as one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular and demanding offshore challenges, covering approximately 605 nautical miles non-stop.
The course takes competitors on a breathtaking journey: starting from Sounio, rounding Milos Island to port, passing through the iconic Santorini Caldera gate, and navigating a series of islands – including Kassos, Karpathos, Rhodos, Kos, Patmos, and Mykonos – before finishing back at Sounio.
Each leg tests the crew’s seamanship and endurance, with ever-changing conditions and the promise of fierce competition.
Artie III’s participation last year was marked by determination and impressive teamwork, earning respect among the international fleet.
Building on this experience, the team is eager to tackle the unique challenges of the Aegean once more.
“The race course is spectacular and conditions can be challenging, but we’re looking forward to this year’s race and the opportunity to represent Malta on such a prestigious stage,” said co-skipper Lee Satariano.
“We’re truly grateful to our main supporter, Jeep, as well as Elmo Insurance, Manoel Island Yacht Yard, RLR Yachting, and Marina di Valletta for their invaluable support, which has made our participation possible.”
Final preparations are underway, and the crew is confident that Artie III will be ready to meet the demands of the Aegean 600.
In a statement, the team extended its gratitude to all supporters and looks forward to another unforgettable offshore adventure.