One of the biggest challenges facing classic yacht owners is not just maintaining these vessels, but also finding the time to sail them as much as they deserve. This season, Blackwatch has been on the starting line for 13 races in the Classic Yacht Challenge Series (CYCS). Who has the time for that? The answer: Blackwatch is managed as a syndicate, with multiple partners sharing ownership. A quick glance at the scratch sheets or results shows nearly a different helmsman for each event, yet above and below deck a consistent crew and captain is keeping the boat maintained and race-ready.

Onawa, a vintage 12-meter owned by McMillen Yachts, follows a similar model. With different drivers taking turns on the helm, she managed to compete in 9 races this year. Both boats demonstrate how partnerships make it possible to keep these yachts active, spreading the demands of upkeep and racing across stakeholders while still retaining a sense of stewardship and tradition.

Boat partnerships are proving themselves as a practical model for sharing not just costs, but also the time and responsibility needed to maintain a classic yacht. They attract smaller ownership groups who might not otherwise take on the burden of full ownership, while ensuring the yachts remain on the water rather than sitting idle. It’s about bringing together like-minded people for the adventure, the camaraderie, and the shared goal of preserving history under sail.

CYOA fully supports this concept. Every year, we see boats for sale — more than a dozen currently listed on the CYOA Marketplace. Some of these vessels could stay active if approached through a partnership model. As Chris Cannon, owner of the John Alden 63 Verrisimo, a Spirit of Tradition with a proven race record, listed on the Marketplace explains:

“Boats are expensive, but they stretch you to get adventuresome, while building priceless memories.  Time on the water, evening cocktails onboard, morning coffee in the cockpit all seem better onboard.  Grandkids feel special when spending the night onboard watching movies with Pappi.  Jokes are funnier! Jumping off for a swim is great fun!  I’d think dividing your annual cost of boating by 3, 4 or 5 annually is also a very nice sensation!”

Now in his late 70s, Cannon has been contemplating the concept of the boat partnership and looking to share the responsibility. While the cost of building or buying such a boat outright is high, the cost of sharing is much more accessible. Partnerships spread the risk while allowing individuals to participate in the ownership of modern classics and vintage yachts alike.

So in a time when too many large yachts sit unused, partnerships maximize utilization. A beautifully cared-for classic, used thoughtfully by four partners, is not only more sustainable but also a more responsible way to steward these legacies. Partners don’t just become owners — they become custodians and build a community around the boat. If you would like to be connected with Chris Cannon or any of these boat owners, please reach out to the CYOA and we would be happy to connect you to see these boats keep sailing! Verrisimo is also at this week’s Newport Brokerage Boat Show.