Since its inception in 1851, the America’s Cup has been a male-dominated event. That will remain true this August through October, when testosterone-heavy teams are scheduled to compete for the Cup in Barcelona, Spain. But this year will also mark the inaugural edition of the Puig Women’s America’s Cup—meaning it’s going to be a chance to witness history for anyone who charters a yacht as a spectator.
The Puig Women’s America’s Cup is an initiative sponsored by the Barcelona-based fashion and cosmetics company, which aims to help women “showcase their skills and talent in the high-performance foiling AC40s and provide a skills pathway to the America’s Cup itself.” A dozen women’s teams are expected to compete, with New York Yacht Club American Magic sending a formidable squad that includes four Olympians, two former winners of US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year award, and a recent winner of The Ocean Race.
“Our goal is not just to compete, but to win the Puig Women’s America’s Cup, illustrating that US women can reach the pinnacle of this sport,” says Suzy Leech, co-leader of the New York Yacht Club Women’s and Youth America’s Cup Task Force.
It sounds like an incredibly fun experience to not only watch, but also cheer from the comfort of a sun deck or bow lounge aboard a private charter yacht. Quite a few have announced availability for America’s Cup charters, including the three featured below from the Edmiston fleet. More yachts from other companies are expected to be available for the Cup as well, following the end of the West Mediterranean’s high season in early September.
As the team at Edmiston is telling its charter clients, this is an extraordinary opportunity. It’s a chance to witness a major step forward in the world’s oldest international sporting trophy.
The Yachts
America’s Cup Details
- Louis Vuitton is the prime sponsor of the 37th America’s Cup, which will be raced between August and October.
- Racing will be around Port Vell and Port Olimpic, and the beach between them.
- Defenders Emirates Team New Zealand will face challengers INEOS Britannia from the United Kingdom, Alinghi Red Bull Racing from Switzerland, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli from Italy, New York Yacht Club American Magic, and Orient Express Racing Team from France.
