Every month, superyacht owners reveal where they are in the world and share their future plans. This month, BOAT speaks to the owner of Shamrock V – known as "The Queen of the J Class" – about her comprehensive restoration and rebuild. The owners of Sea Breeze III spill all on their YouTube series about their adventures.
Owner of Shamrock V
Length: 36.42m
Year: 1930/2024
Location: Southampton
Shamrock V is back on the water after a long rebuild. How are your emotions?
I’m already very proud to have been able to work alongside such talented shipwrights and professionals in the UK. In discussion with owners involved in their own projects in other countries, each has a similar story – we have welcomed several of their shipwright teams to tour and review the work being carried out on Shamrock V and despite the appearance of gloom in many countries, the sense of shared endeavour, the core skills, the passion and optimism for classic restorations seem to be thriving.
Did you feel a lot of pressure bringing Shamrock V back to life?
Anticipation more than pressure. The team is very aware of knowledgeable external scrutiny and thrives on it. With evolving safety regulations, we’ve had to build her back stronger, and we’re as keen as anyone to see what impact that has on performance. The comments section on our Instagram page, @jclassshamrockv, is a good barometer of external opinion. It’s clear that the sailing community just wants to see Shamrock V properly restored and back where she belongs.
What were the biggest challenges in the rebuild?
Once the decision had been taken to go for a full strip down, restoration and rebuild, the biggest challenges over the last 30 months were external – two devastating military conflicts, supply-chain constraints, Brexit and peak inflation. The original budget was stretched as a result. Timing wasn’t ideal.
Are you looking forward to racing at the America's Cup?
Absolutely. Everyone involved with the J Class across the owners, administration, designers and crew, has been unwavering in their support and encouragement.
What is your advice to other owners considering a rebuild?
The best advice I received was to spend several months in detailed planning to minimise later decisions before starting any works, and to stay completely across every aspect of the project – both have saved considerable time and resources.
When will be the first time you hoist the sails?
We are hoping for a first look at the end of June – keep an eye on our Instagram for the latest updates!
Charlotte Devereux & Simon Greenwood, owners of Sea Breeze III
Length: 30.8m
Year: 1976/2021
Location: Auckland
You’ve started a YouTube series about your adventures as owners. What can you tell us about it?
I’ve always had a deep love for the ocean, having grown up on boats, and I have a particular passion for classic yachts. Starting the YouTube series Chronicles of She was a natural way to combine these loves. It allows us to share the beauty and benefits of life at sea, especially aboard a classic boat like Sea Breeze III.
Through this series, we can connect with others who share our passion and introduce more people to the incredible experiences and the beautiful benefits of the ocean. You can watch on our YouTube channel @ChroniclesOf.
How was your summer season in New Zealand?
Our summer season was stunning. We had an memorable time with friends and family staying, and we were away for a blissful nine weeks. Instead of venturing further afield to the Bay of Islands as we usually do, we spent more time exploring the local islands around Waiheke Island. It was a wonderful opportunity to visit places we’d never been to and make new discoveries.
Do you use the boat much over winter?
We have some really exciting mini getaways and winter well-being retreats planned. We aim to showcase some very different and lesser-known spots. While the weather might be cooler, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the sea and create memorable experiences. We’ll be sharing these stories, along with our gorgeous boat dog Augie, on YouTube.
Do you ever venture out into the Pacific, or have plans to do so?
We have always wanted to take Sea Breeze III to Fiji, but every season we find more local destinations that capture our interest, so we don’t have plans to venture out into the Pacific just yet. There’s so much beauty to explore closer to home, and we love discovering new spots each year.
Does Sea Breeze III have its own signature cocktail?
Our signature cocktail is the Smoked Marmalade Breakfast Martini. This delightful drink came about when my friend brought her amazing Matakana Smoked Marmalade that she makes on board during her stay. Inspired by the unique flavour, I decided to create a cocktail featuring the smokiness of the marmalade and the bright, fresh zesty taste of the Matakana oranges. It’s absolutely divine and has quickly become a fave on board Sea Breeze III.
Simon was a grinder in the America’s Cup in 1987, but who’s going to win this year?
That one’s easy. Team New Zealand, of course! We watch them with great admiration and excitement, amazed by their skill and innovation. We’re just so sad that we don’t have the America’s Cup in New Zealand this year, but we wish them well.
First published in the July 2024 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.