DONQUIJOTE

A rare opportunity to acquire a truly historic ocean-going classic designed by one of the most influential naval architects of the twentieth century.

Built in 1953 at the renowned Arsenal Naval shipyard in Buenos Aires, Don Quijote was designed by legendary Argentine naval architect Germán Frers, whose yachts became famous for their elegance, speed and seaworthiness.

Originally conceived as a performance ocean racer, the yacht quickly earned a reputation as one of the fastest boats in South America during her early years. Her lines, reminiscent of the celebrated designs of Sparkman & Stephens, combine graceful classic proportions with powerful ocean-going capability, making her equally admired by sailors and collectors of historic yachts.

A Yacht With True Ocean Heritage

From the beginning, Don Quijote was built for serious offshore sailing. During her early career she competed successfully in several editions of the legendary Buenos Aires – Rio de Janeiro ocean race, achieving excellent results and gaining recognition among the fastest yachts of her era.

Later, the yacht evolved from racing pedigree to comfortable bluewater cruising yacht, while preserving the elegance and spirit of her original design. Over the decades she completed multiple Atlantic crossings, following the historic sailing route:

Buenos Aires → Rio de Janeiro → Dakar → Canary Islands → Gibraltar.

These voyages are part of the yacht’s living history and demonstrate the strength and seaworthiness of her construction.

A Carefully Preserved Classic

In 1993, the yacht was acquired by her current owner, who immediately undertook a comprehensive restoration in Italy at the respected Cantieri Beconcini in La Spezia.

The refit was conducted with great respect for the original design and traditional craftsmanship:

• Deck structures were restored and reinforced


• Structural beams and frames renewed where necessary


• The hull was carefully reconditioned


• New teak deck installed


• Interiors redesigned under the direction of architect Ugo Faggioni, preserving the classic character while improving comfort


• Use of noble materials including Argentine teak, American oak and selected hardwoods

The restoration lasted nine months and resulted in a yacht that combines authentic classic aesthetics with renewed structural integrity.

Rig and Sailing Character

Originally launched with a yawl rig, Don Quijote was later converted to her current Bermudan ketch rig, a configuration highly appreciated for offshore sailing thanks to its balance, sail versatility and reduced loads.

During her evolution the yacht received metal spars with furling systems, significantly improving ease of handling without compromising her classic lines.

The result is a yacht capable of serious passages while remaining manageable by a small crew.

Principal Characteristics

• Designer: Germán Frers


• Year of Build: 1953


• Shipyard: Arsenal Naval – Buenos Aires


• Rig: Bermudan Ketch


• Length Overall: 17.50 m


• Length Waterline: 11.95 m


• Beam: 3.79 m


• Draft: 2.50 m


• Displacement: approx. 18.6 t


• Sail Area: approx. 215 m²


• Engine: 106 HP

A Yacht for the True Connoisseur

Don Quijote is not simply a sailing yacht — she is a piece of sailing history.

Her elegant sheerline, classic overhangs and powerful hull reflect the golden era of yacht design, while her documented history across continents gives her a soul that modern yachts cannot replicate.

She represents a rare opportunity for:

• Collectors of classic yachts


• Enthusiasts of historic regattas such as the Mediterranean classic circuit


• Sailors seeking an authentic ocean-going classic


• Owners looking for a yacht with pedigree, presence and narrative

Today Don Quijote stands as a timeless example of mid-century naval architecture, ready to continue her story with a new owner who appreciates tradition, craftsmanship and the romance of classic sailing.

✅ Viewings are highly recommended for discerning buyers seeking a yacht of historical significance and enduring elegance.