At the start of the fourth day the Scottish boat Lafayette needed to hold onto its lead over Hollandia (second) and Yquem (third) to be in with a chance for the world title.

The first race started in 14 knots of north-easterly wind. Yquem, Wyvern and Athena were over the line at the start, but unlike the latter, Yquem continued to race. First round the mark were the two Swiss boats Alluette and Yquem. Saskia had gone out toward the shore and crossed ahead of Hollandia, but Hollandia just got ahead of Saskia at the mark. Lafayette was fifth round.

At the finish Aluette crossed the line first, Yquem second, Lafayette third. Close behind were Hollandia, Saskia – first of the Classic boats – and Ganymede. With Yquem disqualified at the start, Lafayette was lying second after the first race.

The wind died to eight knots at the start of the second. With the wind dying all the time Lafayette had a great start down the left hand side of the course. Alluette was first round the mark followed by Lafayette, Yquem, Ganymede, Gefion and Hollandia. Alluette and Lafayette then broke away from the main fleet, Alluette crossing the line first with Lafayette close on her heels. Hollandia was third.

Alluette now leads the series, but with just three points between herself and Lafayette there is everything to play for on the last day. All results are subject to protest.