The 36th America’s Cup will take place between 6-21 March 2021 in the picturesque Hauraki Gulf in Auckland, on the North Island in New Zealand.
You don’t have to be a sailing fan to enjoy the ambiance at this one-of-a-kind event, centered around the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy.
While the size of America’s Cup 2021 (AC36) will be significantly smaller than first planned due to COVID-19, it’s still expected to be one of the best Cups so far. Government standard processes and measures will be in place to ensure a safe environment.
Here are a few reasons why you should take part in the action of America’s Cup 2021 – whether you’re lucky to be on-site or if you’re joining remotely.
1. Watch the fastest sailing monohull on earth
“It’s very pleasing to know we have hoisted some sails and not only gone sailing, but gone foiling on the first day,” shore team boss Sean Regan said. Photo: David White / Stuff.nz.
The 36th America’s Cup marks the return to monohulls. The series will be contested in AC75 Class, a 75 foot, high-performance monohull, directed by the AC75 Class Rule. The class rule regulates all features of the boat, to secure fair and exciting racing, and presents much room for innovation. The flexibility is becoming more evident as the teams are presenting their incredibly diverse versions.
Team New Zealand’s 75-foot monohull Te Aihe got up on its foils in its first official sail in September this year. “The AC75 Class Rule sets the parameters for the teams to develop and race the fastest sailing monohull on earth,” said Martin Fischer, Design Coordinator for Luna Rossa Challenge.
The construction of the second generation of AC75s is in process. The advanced technology lays the foundation for races so exciting that they are worth traveling across the world for.
2. Amazing sailing conditions & a strong maritime culture
Photo: Unsplash.
Suitably for the fastest sailing monohull on earth, Auckland – nicknamed the City of Sails, presents amazing sailing conditions. With the Manukau Harbour, New Zealand’s second largest, and the Waitemata Harbour, which connects the city’s main port and the waterfront, numerous sailboats and yachts fill up the harbour on any given day.
The maritime culture is strong here, and has always been. Many locals love spending their time on the water. Much of the action during America’s Cup will take place on the waterfront across the wider Hauraki Gulf, promising great views for onshore spectators.
The racing zone for 2021’s America’s Cup covers an area stretching all the way from the Tamaki Strait between Waiheke Island and Maraetai, to the inner Waitemata Harbour, the iconic harbour bridge in the downtown area, and the stunning North shore beaches.
3. An exciting mix of teams
The teams take advantage of every minute, as time is precious in America’s Cup.
The confirmed teams are INEOS Team UK, NYYC American Magic (USA), Stars and Stripes Team USA, Luna Rossa Italy, and the Defender Emirates Team New Zealand.
There are without a doubt some exciting races coming up.
4. It will be the most viewed and accessible America’s Cup competition in history
The Opening Day of the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda. Photo: Bernews
While the Cup will be different than first planned due to COVID-19, America’s Cup fans around the globe will be able to follow the action via all forms of media and screens via coverage from broadcasters in well over 120 regions.
Well before the COVID breakout, Laurent Esquier, CEO of the Challenger of Record organisation for the 2021 America’s Cup, laid it out clear:
“We will have as much reach as we can worldwide. That is, all media – social, digital, TV and 360VR. The TV audience will be very large because we are not looking for revenues first, rather we are looking for reach”.
The America’s Cup has partnered with free as well as paid networks to ensure that the 36th America’s Cup becomes the most viewed and accessible America’s Cup competition so far.
In addition to the teams and their loved ones on-site, there will be a mix of affluent investors, entrepreneurs, and other sailing fans.
5. If you’re lucky enough to make it on-site, Auckland will win you over with its endless variation
Photo: Sofitel
In between the races, Auckland will win you over with its endless variation. From gorgeous beaches to authentic Maori culture, wine made to perfection, fine dining, premium accommodation, Heli tours, islands, and a city life full of personality.
There is no shortage of beautiful places to visit or things to do here.
> Learn more about the options in Auckland.
Ready to join the action?
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