Historic America’s Cup ambassador to visit NC
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) – Later this month, you’ll get the chance to tour or even sail on the official ambassador of the America’s Cup.
In 1851 the schooner America defeated the British and won the legendary 50 mile race around the Isle of Wight in the English Channel. America’s historic victory and impressive 8-minute margin gave name to one of the oldest, best-known and most prestigious sporting events in the world, the America’s Cup.
The America’s port is in San Diego, but while on its way to the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda, it will berth in Wrightsville Beach from September 23 to 26 as part of an East Coast and Caribbean tour.
Built in 1995, America is a replica of the 139ft original yacht launched 165 years ago.
“It’s amazing. To have a boat that represents something as big as the first vessel that won the America’s Cup is pretty huge for the sailing community here,” said Kevin Smith, General Manager of the Carolina Yacht Club. “Our club was founded on the principles of sailing in 1853, just two years after America’s victory. America represents everything the Carolina Yacht Club was created to do.”
Located two blocks south of Blockade Runner Beach Resort, Carolina Yacht Club is hosting and providing dock space for America.
Tours and sailing excursions are open to the public.
Dockside tours are free and require no reservation. Sailing excursions should be booked in advance online at $85 for adults and $42.50 for those under 18.
“Based in San Diego, it is unlikely that America will do another East Coast tour,” said Smith. “I hope everybody that wants to tour or sail on America will take advantage of this historic visit to North Carolina.”
Coincidental and in the spirit of water sports and the schooner America, the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History will present the 2016 Waterman Hall of Fame Awards on Sunday, September 25 at 2 p.m. at Blockade Runner Beach Resort.
The Waterman Hall of Fame is a lasting tribute to the achievements of generations of Wrightsville Beach watermen and women who shaped and continue to shape the community and its relationship with the water.
Itinerary for America’s visit to Wrightsville Beach:
Friday, September 23
- 12:00-2:00 PM Dock Tours
- 3:00-4:00 PM Dock Tours
- 4:30-7:00 PM Sail Excursions
Saturday, September 24
- 10:00 AM-12:30 PM Dock Tours
- 1:30-4:00 PM Sail Excursions
- 4:30-7:00 PM Sail Excursions
- 7:30-8:30 PM Presentation by Troy Sears and Crew
Sunday, September 25
CLOSED-Private Function
Monday, Sept. 26
- 10:00 AM-12:00 Dock Tours
- 1:00-4:00 PM Dock Tours
- 4:30-7:00 PM Sail Excursions
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