Flyer is a 20-metre aluminium ketch designed by Sparkman & Stephens, built in 1977. She won the 1977-78 Whitbread Round the World Race with Conny van Rietschoten. In 2015, VMG Yachtbuilders had the honor of carrying out a refit to bring her back to her original glory.
- Brand & Model Whitbread Racer
- Type Sailing Yacht
- Designer Sparkman & Stephens
- Material Aluminium
- Length 20,85 m
- Displacement 34 t
About the Flyer
In 1977, Dutch sailor Conny van Rietschoten commissioned the construction of ‘Flyer’, a 20-metre aluminium ketch designed by Sparkman & Stephens. Built with a relentless
focus on performance and safety, she was Van Rietschoten’s entry into the 1977–78 Whitbread Round the World Race, now known as The Ocean Race. With a skilled crew and thorough preparation, ‘Flyer’ secured victory, making Van Rietschoten the first Dutchman to win this gruelling global challenge.
Following her triumph, ‘Flyer’ had a long and varied career, including years as a training vessel on the U.S. West Coast. In 2014, she returned to the Netherlands for an extensive
restoration that brought her back to her original glory. In 2015, VMG Yachtbuilders had the privilege of working on this iconic yacht, carrying out a refit to help preserve her legacy. Contributing to the maintenance of such an important piece of sailing history was a true honour, ensuring ‘Flyer’ remains an inspiration for future generations of sailors.
