Living in the Scuttlebutt World

by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
World order has been restored with details revealed for the 38th America’s Cup in 2027. The clock had been ticking ever so louder, and while the plans are not fully vetted, New Zealand defense boss Grant Dalton admitted they had to put something out. The mob was getting restless.

There’s plenty of change in the 70-page document but it all begins in the Introduction with how they “sought to continue the development of the America’s Cup as the premier event in the sport of sailing, consistent with the provisions of the Deed of Gift,” with six provisions listed:

• Maintain the balance between sailing and design.
• Keep the America’s Cup at the forefront of technology.
• Endeavor to increase the number of Competitors involved in the America’s Cup.
• Increase public engagement with the America’s Cup.
• Cut the cost of organizing and executing an America’s Cup campaign including the design,
Production, and operations of AC75 Yachts.
• Maintain the value of the existing fleet of AC75 Yachts.

I suspect the internet will be quick to judge how much of a sailing event it remains as the crew size continues to shrink, with design and technology taking over functions previously done by people. But since there is so little crew movement on the AC75, does it matter how many people aren’t moving? Thoughts?

The teaser for The Ocean Race 2027 has seven teams now competing through Europe, and it didn’t take five minutes after the start of Leg 1 to remind us that boats designed for offshore racing, in this case the IMOCA, are not too suitable for inshore situations.

Collisions are bad, and for boats that go really fast, aren’t easily maneuvered, have foils and shroud outriggers extending their beam, and are intended for crew to be in the cabin for safety, they probably shouldn’t be near each other. As for offshore sailors, their skills aren’t super refined in these situations either.

Of course, this was all in the interest of creating a spectacle, and it certainly became one, with The Ocean Race Europe gaining significant exposure because of the damage.

With protests to be heard, it will be interesting how much weight the jury gives to the conditions of the boat. The rules require that “when a right-of-way boat changes course, she shall give the other boat room to keep clear.” Did that occur?

It’s National Rum Day on August 16, which means Mount Gay Rum and ginger beer for me. Cheers!