After a memorable debut in last year’s Aegean 600, the Maltese yacht Artie III is getting ready for another exciting challenge in this famous offshore race. The race is set to begin at 2:00pm on 6th July from Sounio, Athens. The Aegean 600 is known as a tough test of endurance, sailing skill, and teamwork. It requires experience and focus from every crew member.
Artie III is co-skippered by Lee Satariano and Christian Ripard, and the crew includes Mathieu Almekinders, Simon De Gent, Koen de Smedt, Nicky Fenech, E.J. Van Housselt, Sam Pizzuto, and Jake Satariano. They are now finishing their preparations. By the third week of June, the yacht will be loaded with safety gear, sails, and supplies. The team plans to leave Malta at the end of the month and expects to arrive in Athens by 2nd July, giving them enough time for final checks and race briefings.
The Aegean 600 is considered one of the most beautiful and demanding races in the Mediterranean. The course is 605 nautical miles long and sailed non-stop. It takes teams on a stunning route: starting in Sounio, rounding Milos Island, sailing through the Santorini Caldera, and passing by Kassos, Karpathos, Rhodos, Kos, Patmos, and Mykonos, before finishing back at Sounio. Each stage of the race brings new challenges with constantly changing conditions and strong competition.
Last year, Artie III impressed with their teamwork and determination, earning respect among the international fleet. This year, the crew is eager to face the Aegean’s challenges again. “The race route is amazing and the conditions can be tough,” said co-skipper Lee Satariano. “But we’re really looking forward to racing again and representing Malta in such a major event.”
He also thanked their main supporter Jeep, along with Elmo Insurance, Manoel Island Yacht Yard, RLR Yachting, and Marina di Valletta for their vital help in making this campaign possible.
With final preparations now in progress, the team is confident that Artie III will be ready for the race. The crew would like to thank everyone supporting them and is looking forward to another unforgettable offshore adventure.
