The schooner Creole, one of the most famous and luxurious sailing vessels in the world is sailing these days between Ibiza and Formentera. With an approximate length of 65 meters, it is considered one of the largest classic sailboats currently in operation. It belongs to the Gucci family, which has been visiting Ibiza and Formentera for more than 20 years aboard the vessel, but its history leaves no one indifferent.
It was originally called Vira and was used by the British Navy during World War II. Of course, the sails were removed and military equipment was installed. After the war, she was returned in very poor condition. Later, in the 1950s, it was owned by the French composer Maurice Ravel and already in 1983 it was acquired by Maurizio Gucci.
The luxury yacht can accommodate 11 guests and a crew of 15. The current owners are Alessandra and Allegra Gucci, daughters of Maurizio Gucci.
But besides his looks, what makes him special? That he thought he was cursed for a while. Although when it was bought in the 1980s by the heir of the famous fashion house, he completely restored it for four years, bringing it back to its original splendor. The restoration was personally supervised by Maurizio Gucci, who saw the yacht as a floating extension of Gucci luxury. He used it as a status symbol, for luxury events and as a family yacht.
In 1995, Maurizio Gucci was shot dead in Milan on the orders of his ex-wife, Patrizia Reggiani. And, although the Creole had no direct involvement, it remained symbolically associated with the Gucci drama for having been one of Maurizio’s most beloved possessions. In fact, as a curious fact, members of the Gucci entourage have reiterated in several interviews that this vessel was one of the few places where Maurizio felt at peace. On board the ship he used to reflect on his family’s legacy, his business decisions and the future of Gucci (which he would end up selling shortly before his assassination).
The Creole has also appeared in documentaries and fashion shoots. Because of its classic aesthetics and elegance, it has been requested by luxury magazines and designers for exclusive shoots. At present, and despite being almost 100 years old, it was launched in 1927, the sailboat is still sailing, and is often seen in the Mediterranean in classic regattas or private events, as now.
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