Malta’s Artie III made a strong comeback in the 2025 Aegean 600, finishing third in ORC Class 1. Co-skipper Lee Satariano described the event as “one of the toughest offshore races from the very start.”
Led by experienced sailors Lee Satariano and Christian Ripard, the team brought with them many years of racing knowledge. Between them, they’ve competed in 50 editions of the Rolex Middle Sea Race, with Satariano entering 16 times and Ripard 34 times, and winning in 2011 and 2014.
That experience was key in tackling the difficult conditions of this year’s race. The Aegean 600 challenged all crews with unpredictable winds, from calm patches to strong gusts reaching 50 knots, and constant heat, which tested the endurance of everyone on board.
Artie III got off to a strong start at Cape Sounion and stayed near the front for most of the race. As they approached Rhodes and the Turkish coastline, lighter winds slowed their progress. While Rhodes is usually tricky due to the Meltemi winds, this time other islands posed bigger challenges. The stretch towards Mykonos was especially tough, with the crew facing the strongest winds of the race.
Reflecting on the event, Satariano said:
“As expected, it was a very hard race. The crew had to stay focused to keep the boat moving in the light winds, deal with the heat, and make sure everyone stayed hydrated.”
The team completed the race in 4 days, 8 hours, 56 minutes, and 12 seconds. Their corrected time was 5 days, 9 hours, 42 minutes, and 6 seconds. In addition to their 3rd place in ORC Class 1, they finished 10th overall in the IRC fleet and 4th in IRC Class Two.
“It’s great to be on the podium again,” said Satariano. “The team worked really well together and the result was well earned.” He also congratulated Gozo Dream, who successfully completed their first Aegean 600.
The Artie III crew for this year’s race included: Lee Satariano, Christian Ripard, Mathieu Almekinders, Simon De Gent, Koen de Smedt, Nicky Fenech, E.J. Van Housselt, Sam Pizzuto, and Jake Satariano.
The team thanked their sponsors: Jeep, Elmo Insurance, Manoel Island Yacht Yard, RLR Yachting, and Marina di Valletta.
The 5th edition of the Aegean 600 was organised by the Hellenic Offshore Racing Club, with support from Olympic Marine and the Region of Attica.
