The 35th America’s Cup sailing races will take place in Bermuda this summer! On a recent visit, we found a whirlwind of preparations going on about the island.
Since it’s only 600 miles from East Coast— between two to three hours by air from Atlanta (Delta Airlines) or New York City (Jet Blue)—it’s worth considering a visit to take in all the excitement.
Oracle Team USA’s sleek sailboat looks nothing like the mono-hull yachts of yesteryear. Today’s nearly 50-foot, double-hull catamarans have towering masts that support tall, rectangular-shaped sails. In a strong wind, the vessels rise up on “foils”—two rudders and two dagger boards. The objective, in fact, is to keep the twin hulls out of the water as much as possible and reach speeds exceeding 40 knots. As Tom Slingsby, tactician for Oracle Team USA , was quoted in the New York Times, “The boat that can make it around the racecourse without touching the water will win this America’s Cup.” Slingsby and the rest of his crew have been practicing in Bermuda for over a year, intent on defending the Cup title they won in San Francisco four years ago.
Those who come for the race will be able to enjoy Bermuda’s signature pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. And in addition to enjoying water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and wind, visitors can play golf, bike and explore the island’s beautiful caves, to name just a few activities. And don’t shopping or dining at Bermuda’s sophisticated restaurants.
If you’re looking for a luxury accommodation at the center of all the action, the historic Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, which has just completed a multi-million dollar renovation, is hard to beat. The historic hotel, located downtown on the island’s protected Great Sound, is the official host of the America’s Cup.
For more information: gotobermuda.com, thehamiltonprincess.com