19/06/2026
S/Y of the day โต๏ธ
Today's sailing yacht just proved that Southern Winds are built for far more than comfort. Meet Aragon, a 28.64m Southern Wind Yachts SW94 sloop that recently sailed directly from New Zealand to Patagonia across the Southern Ocean, one of the world's most desolate and dangerous stretches of water.
Owner Karin van Leeuwen and 28-year-old Skipper Tom Rohde Pearce chose an off-the-beaten-track route home to Europe: twenty-four days at sea through the Roaring Forties and Screaming Fifties, 40-50 knot winds and 10-metre waves. And the best part? Karin was right there at the helm, actively sailing her own boat.
Built in 2013 and refitted in 2019, Aragon pairs Reichel/Pugh Yacht Design naval architecture with the elegance of Nauta Design. With understated luxury accommodation for 8 guests, this is a serious performance cruiser, not just a comfortable one.
For skipper Rohde Pearce, this was the biggest challenge of his career, built on three months of meticulous prep. Karin sailed, handled maintenance, and was genuinely part of the team throughout. As she puts it: "When I'm on the boat, I'm never afraid... I fully trusted the crew."
And the adventure isn't over yet. From Patagonia, Aragon's long road home wound north through South America and across the Atlantic, with her home port of Mallorca (and onwards!) waiting at journey's end.
Ever been part of a crew where the owner was genuinely out there sailing alongside you?
Photo Credit: Yachtshot
