X-41
QuiXotic – Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) | Owner: Andrew Middleton
I’ve had the opportunity to sail aboard QuiXotic, a high-performance X-41, out of the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) several times, and to race against her in numerous ORCV offshore events. The X-41 is a sharp, carbon-rigged 41-foot one-design racer, designed for speed, precision, and responsiveness, with features like a T-speed keel and lightweight, performance-focused construction. Sailing on this type of yacht provided an excellent chance to experience the dynamics of cutting-edge offshore monohulls and to better understand how small adjustments in sail trim, weight distribution, and tactical decision-making can make a significant difference over a long race.
Being part of the crew on QuiXotic offered insight into Andrew Middleton’s approach to high-level racing. The boat’s success in local events, including the Melbourne to Devonport Yacht Race, illustrates the careful planning, teamwork, and attention to detail required to keep a one-design yacht moving efficiently through varied conditions on Port Phillip Bay and offshore passages.
Racing against and alongside QuiXotic has reinforced the importance of quick, precise sail changes, reading shifts in wind and tide, and staying sharp during long offshore legs. The experience has been a valuable addition to my own offshore racing knowledge, giving me a close-up look at the performance standards and crew coordination necessary to compete at the top level.
Blogs
RYCV Lipton Cup
The Lipton CupNorthern Port Phillip’s Premier RegattaIf there is one weekend that perfectly captures the spirit of sailing in Melbourne, it’s the Lipton Cup. Held annually at the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria, this regatta is a massive multi-class celebration that...
Melbourne to King Island 2025
ORCV Melbourne to King Island 202554th Melbourne to King Island Ocean RaceThe 54th Melbourne to King Island Ocean Race was one of those events where the conditions aligned, the fleet was competitive, and the crossing of Bass Strait did everything it was supposed to...
It’s not just sailing
Racing the Dufour 40 near the Yarra River mouth keeps us on our toes. Beyond the technical challenges of Port Phillip Bay, sailing with Peter’s team highlights the social side of the sport. Post-race drinks in the galley are as vital as the racing, cementing the camaraderie that makes club sailing worthwhile.
Jarkan 925
Short-course racing at SYC on this 30-foot cruiser-racer. Handling the Jarkan 925 in a tight fleet provided plenty of practice with various spinnaker pole setups and quick sail changes. It was a solid, hands-on way to refine timing and coordination on a more traditional deck layout.
Ragnar – Beneteau First 36
Sailing with Richard and Alice Ekberg across both Blairgowrie and Sandringham offered a great look at this modern design. Moving from relaxed summer twilights to more competitive winter series at SYC highlighted the boat’s versatility. It was a practical way to experience how modern layouts handle different club environments and varied racing formats.
Trilogy – Dehler 42c
Navigating the unique tides and shifts of southern Port Phillip. Staying ahead on this Dehler 42C requires constant anticipation. It’s a rewarding environment where sharp race management meets a welcoming community; chasing the perfect start is only half the experience when participation is the lifeblood of the club.
Junior Sailing at RYCV
The Gateway to the BayJunior Sailing at RYCVIf you’re looking for a place where the city skyline meets the open water, Royals is it. The club has a long-standing reputation for nurturing young sailors, from their very first time on a boat to competing in state and...
Where it All Began
Salt in the BloodWhy Rosebud Yacht Club is Where it All BeganThey say you never forget your first boat, but for me, it was the club that really stuck. My journey with the water started at six years old. My grandmother had just bought a house in Rosebud, and like...