America’s Cup World Series: What you need to know
What is America’s Cup?
The America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sailing competitions in the world, first contested in 1851, in a race around the Isle of Wight. Some might say it is also the most unfair sporting competition, as the winner not only gets to choose the next edition’s venue but also has a significant input in the sets of rules of engagement. Each competing vessel must be designed and built in the country it represents, which is part of the competition’s charm.
History
The first cup was offered by the Royal Yacht Squadron of Great Britain following a race around the Isle of Wight, won by the 30m schooner called America – which, as you would have guessed is where the name of America’s Cup came. In 1857, the winners donated the cup to the New York Yacht Club, that being the start point of this famous international competition.
How it works:
Since the beginning, the race has always been between a ‘challenger’ vs a ‘defender’ who compete on the water – one on one! To start with, the challenger teams must go against each other in a series of preliminary races (known as the America’s Cup World Series) to secure a spot in taking on the defender in the race itself. The events have four races over the course of a Saturday and Sunday and each event has a winner that accumulates points, the Sunday race being awarded double the points.
At the end of the America’s Cup World Series events, the top team gets two bonus points while the second-place team gets one bonus points.
2021 AMERICA CUP
The 36th America’s Cup presented by Prada will take place between the 6th and 21st of March 2021 in Auckland, New Zealand. The race will be between the winner of the 2017 America’s Cup – Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, represented by Emirates Team New Zealand and the challenger – winner of the Prada Cup, series that will take place in January / February 2021.
The “Challenger of Record”, Circolo della Vela Sicilia who will be represented by their team Luna Rossa Challenge will be negotiating the racing protocol for the competition with the defender.
Ahoy Club is excited for what’s to come and want to encourage all race enthusiasts to experience this fabulous event, from the best spot possible – from onboard a luxury yacht. Like many other global events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Sail GP, you can spectate this exciting event from the deck on your yacht (the best seats in the house)!
With 80 superyachts from around the world announcing their attendance, we can assure you the choice for charter yachts will be of the highest quality. This is a fantastic opportunity to not only watch a historical, renowned race but also explore the beautiful surroundings that New Zealand has to offer – home to an array of clear waters, coves and sandy beaches, with breath-taking views all around!
Here are a few must-sees to explore whilst down under:
Bay of Islands
Only three hours north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s most popular summer destination and we sure see why. Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands and boasts incredible beaches and waters, making it an idyllic aquatic playground you can’t miss! An abundance of wildlife including dolphins, marlins and whales can be observed in the region and the beautiful secluded islands make for a perfect sunbathing spot that you can have all to yourself.
The Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the North Island. Take time whilst you are here to walk through the sub-tropical rainforests which is home to the Kauri trees which can grow up to 50m tall. A trip to Coromandel would not be complete without experiencing Hot Water Beach. Families, kids and couples can be seen digging their own spa pool in the sand and relaxing in the natural springs.
The Bay of Plenty & Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
The Hauraki Gulf is a coastal feature of New Zealand’s North Island and offers over a million hectares of sparkling blue waters, being the only Marine Park in New Zealand. With over 80 islands that can be explored by boat, there is truly no other way to fully experience and enjoy this area than by venturing on and in the waters, for beautiful adventures
Auckland
Relax onboard your luxury yacht in the ‘City of Sails’, dine at world-class restaurants, marvel at the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge, or browse designer shops and the city’s many art galleries and museums.
Poor Knights Islands
Just 22 km off the shores of the North Island, Poor Knight Islands offer superb, world-class scuba diving and snorkelling spots. With various caves and a nudibranch wall, the Poor Knights Islands are the perfect choice for experienced divers, whereas beginners are also welcomed to practise their skills and gain experience. Although named as one of the top 10 best scuba diving locations in the world, the sceneries above water are splendid and make a beautiful spot for non-divers to enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding.
If you are considering attending the America’s Cup 2021 look no further! Let our experts do the planning and enjoy a different kind of holiday next year – combine the adrenaline of the races with the relaxing and unwinding New Zealand’s nature has to offer. Check out our range of vessels available for charter today.
