Like stepping into a spaceship

When British sailor Andrew Simpson died in May 2013 during a training accident for the America’s Cup in San Francisco, that ended the tradition of guest passengers on the racing yachts. The shift to much faster boats came with risks, and safety regulations were significantly increased for the event to be held.

But 13 years later, the onboard experience returns. Report by Joseph Pearson from Kiwi media STUFF:

Hearing you’re about to jump onboard “one of the fastest boats in the world” makes you giddy, tense, and focused in equal measure.

It’s the finest of Auckland’s autumn, with enough wind to sail despite the soothing stillness, on what feels like the perfect day for a leisurely cruise. The blinding sun is baking the Waitematā Harbour.

While this is just another sailing day for Team New Zealand with their relaunched America’s Cup boat, Taihoro, it’s unique for me, as someone who has never sailed before when stood on the shore gawking at their imposing AC75 yacht. – Full report

Details: https://www.americascup.com/

Defender New Zealand and Challenger of Record from Great Britain confirmed the Protocol for the 38th America’s Cup on August 12, 2025. The close of the initial entry period was October 31, 2025, with late entries considered up to March 31, 2026. If no USA team participates in the 38th America’s Cup, it will be the first time in the event’s 175-year history.

Current entrants:
• Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL) – Defender
• Athena Racing (GBR) – Challenger of Record
• Luna Rossa (ITA) – Challenger
• Tudor Team Alinghi (SUI) – Challenger
• La Roche-Posay Racing Team (FRA) – Challenger

After the 2024 event, Barcelona, Spain declined hosting another edition, with the venue moved to Naples, Italy. Challenger racing begins in the spring before the 38th Match on July 10-18, 2027.

Preliminary Regattas:*
May 21-24 – Cagliari, Sardinia

* More are to be announced.