The UK P&I and UK Defence Club sponsored the yacht MELX II which took part in the Andros International Yacht Race from 2nd June to 5th June in Greece.

Every summer in June, yachts race from Vouliagmeni in the Saronic Gulf to the island of Andros, a distance of approximately 80 nautical miles. The destination and finish of the first overnight leg was in Chora of Andros with the second leg finishing at Sounion.  Due to light wind conditions, the return leg was shortened.

This was the 50th year in what has become recognised as the largest and most historic sailing event in the country. Linked with the shipping community, entrepreneurs and royalty, as always the race provided a memorable experience for those who participated, but also for those who spectated over the three-day event.

Our own Michael Chanouzas and Alec Kyrle-Pope were part of crew, captained by Olympic sailor Panagiotis Kambouridis.

After an exhausting 22 hours, the MELX II came second in the first leg and was one of four yachts, out of 12 boats that started, that endured the light wind conditions and finished within the time allotted.  In the return leg, the crew's ingenious tactics awarded them the coveted first place. Photos from the event can be viewed below: