GAEL I

GAEL I is a 23-metre wooden ketch, designed by Philip Rhodes and built by Abeking & Rasmussen in 1962. Rhodes reportedly considered her one of his finest creations, and the build reflects it: double-layer Siam teak on steam-bent white oak frames, silicon bronze fastenings, and hollow varnished Sitka spruce masts that catch the light from a harbour away.

She was originally built for Robert Fievet, the French industrialist behind Baby Bel cheese, and later passed to Count Alberto Marone Cinzano of the Italian drinks family. After the Count's death, the yacht passed to his daughter, Contessa Marone Cinzano, who sailed her in the Caribbean. Most recently refitted in 2024, she's now chartering in the western Mediterranean.

She sleeps six guests in three cabins: one double and two twins, with a crew of four. The interiors are warm wood throughout, in keeping with the period, and the deck layout is classic ketch: teak decks, varnished deckhouse, and enough space to lounge, dine, and watch the sails work above you.

She cruises at 8 knots from her summer base in the South of France, with Corsica, Sardinia, and the Balearics all within easy sailing range. Paddleboards, snorkel gear, and a tube are on board, but the yacht herself is the main attraction.