Your Sailing Experience
What to expect on your day of 12 Meter sailing in Newport, Rhode Island:
Today our 12 Meter America’s Cup yachts remain racing beauties, while including amenities for comfort. They all have been outfitted with interiors which include bunks, toilet, and galley. All of our yachts are U.S. Coast Guard certified and have the necessary safety equipment including lifelines and life jackets. Although they have been updated slightly since the America’s Cup they remain speedy boats on the race course!
Our yachts’ decks remain similar to their America’s Cup racing days. There is a sunken cockpit area with bench style seating for 6 guests. The remaining guests will sit directly on the yacht’s deck. There are no cushions on board the yacht but you may bring your own aboard if you wish. During certain sailing maneuvers, you may be asked to change where you are sitting on the boat. Under the crews’ direction, you are welcome to move around and explore the yacht during your sail.
We will meet for your sail 30 minutes prior to departure in downtown Newport, see confirmation for the specific meeting spot. At the meeting spot please check in with our 12 Meter Yacht Charters’ representative and sign our participant waiver. Once all guests arrive, we will either take a short, three minute walk to the dock where we will board the yacht or take a five minute launch ride to the yacht.
A typical 12 Meter Yacht Charters’ sail has three parts: hoisting the sails, sailing or racing the yacht, and taking the sails down. While participation is never required, the 12 Meter crew will encourage guests to participate in each part of the sail. The 12 Meter Yacht Charters’ captains and crew are trained to make your sail as enjoyable as possible. Feel free to ask them questions about the history of the yacht you are sailing, the history of the America’s Cup, and any questions you have about sailing. In an effort to make your whole stay in Newport memorable, 12 Meter Yacht Charters will gladly provide information about Newport sites, accommodations, and restaurants, if requested.
Water and juice will be provided complimentary on all sails. For private charters, other beverages and food can be arranged by our staff.
12 Meter Crew Gear including hats, polo shirts, tee-shirts, and sweatshirts is available for purchase before, during, or after your sail.
What to bring on your sail:
While sailing on the waters of Narragansett Bay the temperature and conditions can change. Therefore, we suggest that guests wear layers. Also, we recommend that you bring the following with you on your sailing experience in Newport:
a light sweater, sweatshirt, jacket, or windbreaker
pair of pants if sailing in spring or fall
athletic shoes – preferably without black soles
sunglasses, hat
sunscreen
Most importantly don’t forget your camera! You will want to snap away as you enjoy the beauty of Narragansett Bay and the grace of our 12 Meter yachts!
There is plenty of space to stow purses, bags and belongings down below on the yacht. Throughout the sail, these items will be accessible by asking for our crews’ assistance.
Depending on the wind and weather you may get wet while on board, and you may be asked to move to a new position on deck as we maneuver our sails.
In the event of rain or cold weather all of our America’s Cup yachts have an ample supply of waterproof rain gear including hooded jackets and pants for your comfort. However, you are most welcome to bring your own if you wish.