Victory Chimes Makes "The World's Top 200 Yachts" List !

The magazine, Boat International USA, had a special feature in their June, 2000 issue (#16) listing "The World's Top 200 Yachts." Victory Chimes was listed as number 148 on Malcolm J. Wood's list. Apparently Wood used size as a primary determining factor for a vessel to be included on this lofty list - he figures size is more of a consistent measure than tonnage. The article states that 20 years ago, there were 540 yachts over 100 feet long worldwide. Today that figure has been increased to 1,850 yachts world wide. So being in anyone's Top 200 list is an accomplishment.

We (Captains DeGaeta and Files) consider Victory Chimes a working boat (In the Windjammer trade) and not a yacht. We realize we were probably added to the list because Wood sought to show vessel diversity in his top 200 list of the existing 1,850 yachts worldwide. Of course, we feel we were a good choice given Victory Chimes historic place as the last three masted or larger American built sailing vessel still in operation. But, please don't base your decision on joining us for a cruise solely from a tea and crumpets perspective, because of the Top 200 list. Both Paul and Kip have run yachts, and it is an entirely different world. One difference: you can charter the Victory Chimes for an entire week for yourself and 40 of your closest friends, for what some of the smaller vessels on Wood's list charge for a couple for a single day.

With that said, we are extremely flattered to be included with such prestigious yachts from around the world like Christina O, Tai Pan and Gallant Lady. We are also proud to represent the United States on this list - we are only the 9th American vessel out of 13 to make the list. And, Victory Chimes is the only American National Historic Landmark included on the list. So thanks Malcolm J. Wood and Boat International USA for the honor. It was a great 100th birthday present for the old girl.