"S/V The Impossible Machine"
- Type Sail
- Condition Used
- Model Custom
- Manufacturer Custom
- Price $119,500
Welcome aboard The Impossible Machine.
Originally launched in 1966, this classic wooden sailing vessel was designed by Kurt Oehlman and built at the Louw & Halvorsen shipyard in Cape Town, South Africa, to be used as a training vessel for the South African Navy.
In 2020, her current owner commissioned a major refit, transforming her into the proud ocean voyager she is today. The refit included extensive mechanical, structural, and rigging upgrades, and in 2022 her topsides and antifoul were renewed, completing her rejuvenation.
This extensive refit prepared her for the adventure of a lifetime — sailing from South Africa to Brazil to compete in the 2023 Cape to Rio Race. At the helm was her owner, Ard Matthews, renowned South African musician, songwriter, and lead vocalist of the band Just Jinjer, who then continued his voyage north to the Caribbean.
In recent years, The Impossible Machine has also served as a sailing and yacht-training platform for the Paper Boat Academy, offering aspiring mariners the skills and experience to launch careers in the yachting industry.
