Baruna is a 1938 S&S yawl that was relaunched summer 2021 after a seven-and-a-half-year restoration to return her to as close to original as possible.
- Name Baruna
- Designer Sparkman & Stephens
- Type Bermudan Yawl
- Year 1938
- Dimensions 21.9 x 4.5 x 2.9 m
- Refit at VMG 2021
Baruna: the legendary 1938 sailing yacht designed by Olin Stephens
The sailing yacht Baruna, launched in 1938, is a remarkable embodiment of maritime elegance and advanced design, crafted by the legendary naval architect Olin Stephens of Sparkman & Stephens. Revered in yachting circles, Baruna represents a pinnacle of pre-war yacht design, combining aesthetic grace with cutting-edge performance capabilities.
Olin Stephens, one of the most influential yacht designers of the 20th century, designed Baruna with a lot of attention to detail and a deep understanding of hydrodynamics. Sparkman & Stephens, founded in 1929 by Olin Stephens and Drake Sparkman, quickly rose to prominence in the yachting world, and Baruna stands as a testament to their innovative vision and craftsmanship.
Constructed at the Nevins Shipyard in City Island, New York, Baruna features a classic wooden hull, characterized by sleek lines and a robust yet graceful structure. Her design was ahead of its time, incorporating a deep keel and a well-balanced sail plan that enabled superior performance in various wind conditions. These attributes made her a formidable competitor in the racing circuit and a beloved vessel among sailing enthusiasts.
Baruna’s racing pedigree is illustrious. She participated in numerous prestigious regattas, earning accolades and establishing a legacy of excellence. Notably, she competed in the Newport Bermuda Race, where her performance was a testament to Stephens’ innovative design and the yacht’s exceptional craftsmanship.
Beyond her racing prowess, Baruna is cherished for her timeless beauty and the sense of history she carries. Restorations over the years have ensured that she retains her original charm while incorporating modern amenities to meet contemporary standards of comfort and safety.Today, Baruna continues to sail, a living piece of maritime heritage. She stands not only as a symbol of Olin Stephens’ genius but also as an enduring icon of the golden age of yachting. Her presence on the water is a tribute to the enduring appeal of classic yacht design and the enduring spirit of adventure that defines the world of sailing.
Baruna’s refit
For the refit, Baruna’s hull was shipped to Enkhuizen, where we have been responsible for the complete outfitting of the yacht. She has been restored to an extremely high standard and is one of the foremost examples of current classic yacht restoration.
