Not even Maritimo 100's crew expect the supermaxi will push her rivals for Sydney to Hobart line honours. But with the five-star luxury they'll enjoy on board, you mightn't blame the sailors for just wanting to enjoy the trip. Entering her first Sydney-Hobart, Maritimo is one of only two 100ft supermaxis made by the British luxury yacht designer Oyster.
The other, Serafim, was listed for sale in 2022 for €6,300,000 ($A10.5million). Maritimo can lay claim to being the most decadent boat in the race fleet of 104 boats, boasting marble ensuites, stunning views and separate lounge and dining spaces.
As her rivals chow down on freeze-dried food or whatever they've cooked at home this week, Maritimo features a professional chef's gallery with an elaborate menu. "It's roast ham tonight and a potato bake," skipper Peter Jones said of the menu on Thursday. The array of features means Maritimo weighs in at more than 100 tonnes, a major stumbling block in the push to reach Hobart before rival supermaxis LawConnect, Master Lock Comanche or Wild Thing 100.
The world's most impressive 100-footer, Comanche is the favourite for line honurs, but the varied conditions forecast will also suit her nearest rival and reigning champion LawConnect. But bookmakers aren't even offering a price for Maritimo to claim the John H Illingworth Challenge Cup as first past the post, with her rivals similarly sceptical of her chances. "Maritimo 100 will certainly be having better food and a more enjoyable ri.