J Class Yachts - Latest News

Endeavour JK4 Launched

2011-10-08T09:00:00.011+01:00

Yachting Developments proudly launched the iconic J Boat Endeavour on Saturday 8th October 2011, the launching marks the completion of an extensive 18 month refit at Yachting Developments yard based in Hobsonville, Auckland.

Endeavour touched the water at 8am, onboard systems were commissioned and checked, the new mast was stepped at 11am, the boom was fitted at 1.00pm, Endeavour then moved to her berth at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on schedule at 2.30pm.

Absolute care has been taken throughout the refit to preserve as much of the vessel as practical while taking advantage of twenty first century sailing systems, enhanced performance and improved functionality.

The comprehensive refit includes removal and replacement of the complete weather deck including all deck equipment. Steel deck framing has also been relocated to accommodate the new load paths of the new deck layout.

There has been a long term philosophy of longevity and serviceability throughout the refit ensuring Endeavour will remain the historic Icon she is today for future generations.

Dykstra & Partners, Naval Architects, have been instrumental in the design of the new sail plan, deck layout, and structural engineering.

The main engine, generators, hydraulic systems, winches, electrical system, electronics, bow thruster and air conditioning have been replaced or upgraded.

The new carbon fibre mast was built by Southern Spars Auckland, the mast features carbon standing rigging.

Accommodation forward of the mast has been reconfigured by John Munford and Adam Lay, the new interior has been built in-house by Yachting Developments tradesmen.

The owner’s project management is by Jon Barrett Associates whom have had over 25 years experience in this role with Endeavour.

Yachting Developments Managing Director Ian Cook describes working on Endeavour as “an honor, she is something special, everyone involved has put their heart and soul into the refit, I think the care, and passion is very evident in the end result”.

Yachting Developments, Jon Barrett Associates, Dykstra & Partners will be attending this years Fort Lauderdale International Boat show.

www.yachtingdevelopments.co.nz
www.gdnp.nl
www.JBAyachts.com

EXCITING END TO J CLASS REGATTA, NEWPORT USA

2011-06-20T09:30:00.003+01:00

The last race was held in light northerly breezes, and the Race officer bravely issued a course with a downwind start, passing the crowded spectator fleet off Fort Adams and Castle Hill.

Both yachts got away cleanly but Velsheda elected the pin end, closer to the next gate and gained a quick advantage. A gybing duel followed, but after a few inside gybes, Ranger caught her spinnaker high in the rigging and it quickly split, loosing them more ground for the recovery.

At the bottom mark Velsheda had gained a 2 minute lead, enough for them to command the windward berth on the long slow upwind leg back to the shortened course finish line, right in front of the many spectators at Castle Hill.

The exciting tactical race was a fitting end to a great regatta, where many thousands of spectators were enthralled by these great yachts. Just a few of the comments included
" It was wonderful to see these boats from a pas era"
"we could not believe the size and power of the se yachts"
"and the teamwork on these boats is astounding"
"we can't believe that they were designed and built in the 1930's

CORUM WATCHES presented a wonderful perpetual trophy to Ranger, the overal winner, who also won a unique timepiece - a CORUM TIDE WATCH

The legend lives on and the J's will be back in Newport in the future!

NEWPORT J CLASS REGATTA - Report No.5

2011-06-20T09:30:00.000+01:00

With Friday's race postponed, two were held on Saturday, in bright sky's with a strong 15 know South Easterly into the Newport harbour entrance.

the first race got away with Ranger holding a short, five boat length lead and the distance never really changed on the subsequent top spinnaker reach, and run to the finish. With a small time correction factor , RANGER won by 25 seconds, and winning the event overall at that point with a 3:0 score.

The start of race four saw a repeat of the first start where RANGER managed to push VELSHEDA above the committee boat, then bear away to cross on time, leaving VELSHEDA to complete a slow gybe before crossing the line.

RANGER had pulled out a massive 4 minute lead by the top mark. The two yachts headed off with spinnakers pulling, into a bank of famous Newport fog before piping out later on the downwind leg, past the Castle Hill headland and New York Yacht Club, packed with spectators.

VELSHEDA slowly ground down the distance but was never to be in contention, finishing a creditable 2 minutes 40 seconds behind.

One more race completes the series, already now won by RANGER.

NEWPORT J CLASS REGATTA - Report No.4

2011-06-20T09:28:00.003+01:00

After a long and frustrating wait at the dock, the third and critical race in the Newport J Class Regatta, was postponed to be raced another day. A deep depression covered the area and with strong wind and torrential rain it was decided to re-run the race, if possible, on Saturday 18th June.

The next race is critical for Velsheda, as Ranger has a 2-0 lead in the 5 race series. If weather permits, many thousands of spectators, both on the shore and on the water are expected for the weekend.

NEWPORT J CLASS REGATTA - Report No.3

2011-06-17T09:08:00.005+01:00

A simply stunning day of racing was experienced by the thousands of spectators who took to the waters to see RANGER and VELSHEDA battle in the near perfect conditions of Newport Harbour - 16 knots southerly with sunshine.

The two yachts circled and manouvred for best position to cross the start line , laid across the bay from Fort Adams. Both got away cleanly, but RANGER quickly got the advantage and covered VELSHEDA most of the way up to the first mark, laid well out into the bay. nly several boat lenghts seperated them along the next four mile power reach with their massive spinnakers driving them at around 16 knots.

Downwind the yachts had to pass a gate at Fort Adams, where many spectators had lined the shore to see these yachts glide past with more than 16,000 square feet of area in the mainsail and spinnaker. Sailing through the gate, the gap was down to half a boat length. Both gybed simultaneously in true America's Cup style and trimmed sails for every inch of advantage, continuing alongside each other under the Newport bridge and down to the leeward turning mark.

RANGER, just managed to turn the leeward island one boatlength ahead, giving them the advantage to hold a cover up to the finish. RANGER, the bgger boay, gives VELSHEDA a small handicap in these conditions, but won by 27 seconds on corrected time. RANGER now has a 2:0 win with three races to go in the series.

NEWPORT J CLASS REGATTA - REPORT NO.2

2011-06-16T15:24:00.000+01:00

In a stunning text book manoeuvre, RANGER locked out VELSHEDA at the start of the First race of the Newport J Class Regatta. both boats lined up in perfect conditions - 16 knots northerly and sunny - to give them a beat away from the spectator start area off Fort Adams, and up into the harbour under the famous Newport bridge.

RANGER crossed on the gun leaving VELSHEDA to gybe back and return to the line, leaving her 40 seconds behind from the very start. Both yacht held the same distance as they turned the island mark to run back down the harbour under spinnaker, creating a superb sight for the shoreline spectators at Fort Adams and Castle Hill.

Having rounded marks in the bay, the two yachts worked back to windward into the harbour entrance, each trying to gain best advantage. At the finish it was RANGER clear ahead with a 79 second lead, winning the first race by just one second on handicap from her rival.

NEWPORT J CLASS REGATTA - REPORT NO.1

2011-06-15T12:00:00.001+01:00

Two of the most competitive yachts in the world are coming together for the first race of the Newport J Class Regatta, R.I. USA - a series of five races from 15-19 June. The yachts, their entourage of support boats, containers and Crew have been arriving over the last few weeks in preparation for this event: bringing the famous J Class yachts back to sail on Newport waters.

Both yachts have been practising on the proposed course around the harbour and under the famous Newport Harbour bridge. With 175 feet of mast above the deck there is little clearance for these yachts, making sailing under the bridge truly spectacular. Racing is due to start at 1.00pm local time on a start line near Fort Adams, allowing spectators stunning views of these wonderful classic yachts.

VELSHEDA dates back to 1933 when she was owned and built by Mr Stephenson, to spar against the UK yacht ENDEAVOUR. RANGER is a replica build of the famous original, launched in 2002. The original successfully defended the America's Cup against ENDEAVOUR II in 1937.

This has been a big commitment by the J Class Association to bring these wonderful yachts back to the home waters of the 1930s era of America's Cup sailing. It had been hoped that more would be competing, but SHAMROCK V could not make the Atlantic crossing due to European commitments and HANUMAN (a replica of the 1937 ENDEAVOUR II) declined to race.

This event starts the run-in to the 2012 series of J Class regattas in the UK planned for Falmouth, June 2012, The Solent, July 2012, and the final "Hundred Guinea Cup Race" around the Isle of Wight on the original 1851 America's Cup course.

J CLASS REGATTA ANNOUNCED FOR NEWPORT, JUNE 2011

2011-01-27T12:00:00.007Z

click here to view the Newport Regatta page...

The J Class yachts VELSHEDA, RANGER and SHAMROCK V will be participating in the J CLASS NEWPORT REGATTA, the first of a series of global J Class events, culminating in the Hundred Guinea Cup race, Cowes 2012.

JANUARY 27, 2011, Newport, RI – David Pitman, Secretary of the J Class Association announced that the first event in the J Class Global Calendar of events will be staged in Newport, RI. Racing in the famous waters of the America’s Cup, the J Class will use this regatta to kick off a four regatta programme culminating in a race around the Isle of Wight in July of 2012 on the original 1851 America’s Cup course, for the HUNDRED GUINEA CUP.

In 1930, Newport was the venue for the start of the remarkable J Class era. Between 1930 and 1937 there were just 10 of these stunning yachts constructed for the purpose of winning the America’s Cup. Two of the originals (Shamrock V and Velsheda) will participate in Newport, together with Ranger, a true replica of the original. Negotiations continue with other new J yachts for them join the regatta.

Sail Newport and the J Class Association are responsible for the on water race management of the regatta. The yachts and their teams will be based at the Newport Shipyard with crews staying at the Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina.

The regatta series of 5 races will be run from June 15th to 19th, 2011 with starts and finishes off of Fort Adams. Viewing stands will be set up on the Northwestern corner of Fort Adams and other excellent viewing options will be at Castle Hill Inn and various spots in Jamestown.

Working with the US Coast Guard, Sail Newport will establish safe water viewing areas along the entire course.

Mr. Pitman closed the announcement by saying, “We hope to provide five days of spectacular racing and with the continued support of the State and the city of Newport we look forward to planning arrangements for a major regatta in Newport during 2014, featuring up to 10 yachts.”

SPONSOR ANNOUNCED FOR THE J CLASS 2012 REGATTA SERIES

2010-09-23T09:00:00.024+01:00

As you will be aware, the J Class Association has comprehensive plans for a series of regattas in the UK during 2012. The J Class Association is now delighted to announce that four of the leading Dutch shipyards will form the main sponsor for these events. This is just a start of the initiative sponsoring the J-Class and their events. It is anticipated that the sponsoring group may be enlarged and broadened in scope in the months ahead.

The Sponsor Partners are, in no particular order:

Royal Huisman
Holland Jachtbouw
Claasen / Jongkind
Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw

All of these shipyards have been involved in the construction and launching of either new builds or restorations.

They recognise the importance of the J Class fleet, and its resurgence at the leading edge of modern yacht racing around the world. The J Class yachts command respect from yachtsmen worldwide and are a marker for quality, advanced technology and performance. Our sponsors are therefore proud to be associated with the Class and its future expansion and the JCA is delighted to have their support.

BLOEMSMA ALUMINIUMBOUW has now built the aluminium hulls for three yachts: ATLANTIS, LIONHEART and RAINBOW.

CLAASEN / JONGKIND has recently completed fitting out the Yacht LIONHEART and is involved in further projects.

HOLLAND JACHTBOUW is now finishing RAINBOW, which was moved to their shipyard several months ago. Rainbow will be launching in January 2012 and will be ready for the 2012 regatta series.

ROYAL HUISMAN was responsible for the restoration of ENDEAVOUR in 1986, and more recently completed the replica build of ENDEAVOUR II, now named HANUMAN.

All these yards are all heavily involved in the Class, its unique history and its very promising future, hence their desire to support this major regatta programme in the Olympic Year.

“This is a great opportunity for us,”said Jan Hart, spokesman on behalf of the sponsor group “We believe that this J Class yacht racing programme epitomises the achievements that our Dutch yards have made in the competitive field of superyacht construction. We want to build on this success and look forward to working with the Class throughout the 2012 regatta and beyond”.

David Pitman, J Class Association Secretary said “This is a big step forward for our 2012 event. It enables us to plan a great sailing programme for the competitors plus a wonderful spectacle of sailing, both in Falmouth and the Solent. We can now look forward to the real possibility of attracting at least six and possibly more yachts. It will be a breathtaking sight.”.

ABOUT THE 2012 REGATTA
In June 2012 the first regatta will be sailed in the wonderful waters of Falmouth Bay, in Cornwall. One month later the second regatta will be held in the Solent. The final regatta will be a single race, sailed over the original 1851 America’s Cup course, 65 miles around the Isle of Wight, with no time limit.

YACHTS - EXISTING AND PLANNED
Six originals or replicas now exist: SHAMROCK V, ENDEAVOUR, VELSHEDA, RANGER, HANUMAN and LIONHEART.
Two more are in build: RAINBOW and ATLANTIS.
Two more have plans approved to build : ENTERPRISE and SVEA
One more project is about to be commissioned. The grand total is ELEVEN, a long way from where we were in the year 2000 when the class association was formed.

YANKEE PROJECT
We are extremely pleased to make a further announcement. Holland Jachtbouw will shortly start the construction of the yacht YANKEE for a Dutch syndicate. Originally built in 1930 as a defender of the America’s Cup, this new yacht will also be ready for the 2012 Regatta. The contract for this exciting project will be signed on the Holland Jachtbouw stand Thursday 23rd September at 16.00 hrs.

Rainbow JH2: Transported to Holland Jachtbouw

2010-07-20T09:00:00.000+01:00

On Monday July 19th Rainbow JH2 was transported on a barge to Holland Jachtbouw in Zaandam.

Zwartsluis based HEBO took care of the transport, across the IJsselmeer and through Amsterdam.

The 40 meter yacht is now on a cradle inside Holland Jachtbouw where she will be finished.

Early 2012 Rainbow will be launched and rigged. Immediately afterwards test sailing and crew training will commence off Ijmuiden.

At the J class event at Fallmouth and Cowes in June 2012 Rainbow JH2 will be able to compete against her sister ships for the first time.

During the Olympic Games in England, Rainbow is available for (day)charters.

Building progress and latest developments can be checked at www.rainbow-jh2.com

Further information is available from Martine Vos. info@rainbow-jh2.com

LIONHEART NOW ON THE WATER

2010-07-08T12:00:00.013+01:00

The sensational new J Class yacht LIONHEART has now been launched in Holland.

LIONHEART is based on a RANGER design (77F Model) which was tank tested in 1936 but never built. Design work from the original hull lines was completed by Andre Hoek Naval Architects, with construction of the aluminium hull by the now famous Bloemsma Shipyard. She was then moved by barge to Claasen Jachtbouw BV for fitting out and completion with technical installations by Cornelis Jongkind Yacht Installations.

She is finished below decks to a very high standard, befitting a yacht of this calibre. Above decks she features the very latest technology in sailing systems - Harken winches, Hall Spars carbon mast, spars and rigging and North sails. Following sailing trials she will leave for the Mediterranean.

This is now the sixth J Class yacht on the water.

Already afloat are:

SHAMROCK V (1930)
VELSHEDA (1933)
ENDEAVOUR (1934)
RANGER (replica 2002)
HANUMAN (replica 2009)

Two more yachts are currently under construction at Bloemsma, ATLANTIS and RAINBOW, both due to complete in time for the J Class Regatta programme in England (Falmouth June 2012, the Solent July 2012).

VELSHEDA WINS CLASS IN RTI RACE 2010

2010-06-21T12:00:00.004+01:00

Velsheda had a great race in technically difficult conditions finishing first in Class '0', which comprises the fastest of the IRC yacht racing fleet. JK7 was able to hold on to a good wind band right down to the Needles, rounding second, behind ICAP Leopard, and ahead of around 1700 yachts in the monohull fleet.

At the finish of the 55 mile course, JK7 held on to her second place over the line, completing the course in 5 hrs 45 mins 2 seconds to the surprise of many onlookers.

Early quotes:

"In the light conditions, ICAP Leopard was first to the Needles with Velsheda behind her making good progress thanks to her massive acreage of sail. At this stage the mighty J was only just being caught by the first of the Extreme 40s"

"Velsheda had a great race finishing at 10.45.02 and ended up winning Class 0 ahead of Ben Ainslie on JPM Princes Trust, followed by John Caulcutt’s Swan 65 Desperado and then the ‘international incidence’ – the Farr 52 BOB, formerly Bear of Britain, who’s crew included Tony Hayward, the BP CEO, heavily lambasted recently for his company’s responsibility in the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster and who was trying to get some quiet down time with his son."

"The exquisite J Class yacht Velsheda finished at 10:45. Built in 1933 in Camper and Nicholsons in Gosport, Velsheda is the most famous of the few remaining J Class yachts left in the world today."

HANUMAN WINS SAILING YACHT OF THE YEAR in the World Superyacht Awards 2010

2010-05-22T12:00:00.002+01:00

J CLASS YACHT 'HANUMAN' has been awarded the SAILING YACHT OF THE YEAR AWARD at the 2010 World Superyacht Awards.

Judges' Comments:
Chosen from among the three award winners in the sailing yacht classes, the judges felt that the combination of beauty and extremely high quality of construction concentrated in Hanuman made her a worthy winner of the title Sailing Yacht of the Year.

http://worldsuperyachtawards.com/2010-winners/#sailing

Press Statement from the J Class Association: 15th April 2010

2010-04-15T12:30:00.002+01:00

It is with regret that the J Class Association has been informed that Hanuman has withdrawn from the Antigua Classic Regatta 2010. Everyone had been looking forward to watching the three J yachts ‘Hanuman’, ‘Velsheda’ and ‘Ranger’ compete in the four day event, which starts Friday 16th April 2010.

Both ‘Velsheda’ and ‘Ranger’ will compete in the Spirit of Tradition Class, a fleet of around 7 yachts, schooners, yawls and sloops all over 90’ LOA.

We hope to see ‘Hanuman’ sailing against other Js in future regattas.

2012 J CLASS REGATTA

2010-02-16T18:00:00.004Z

"A spectacular yachting event is coming to the UK"

The J Class Association is pleased to announce outline plans for a series of spectacular regattas in England during 2012 - the Olympic Year. This will be the first time in history that more than four of these imposing yachts will race together in a fleet.

The outline plan has received a positive response from J Class owners and event planning is now proceeding. Many yachts in the fleet are now preparing to be on the start line for these 2012 events.

FALMOUTH
The first regatta will be based in Falmouth, Cornwall, hosted by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club. Races will be held in the bay and along the coastline.

SOLENT
The second regatta will be based in the Solent, the traditional home of J Class racing in the UK during the 1930s.

ROUND THE ISLAND
The last race will be held over the original course around the Isle of Wight, for the 1851 Hundred Guinea Cup Race, which is now known as the “America’s Cup”.

This J Class event will attract many thousands of spectators. There are numerous headlands and vantage points close to the race courses for viewing this spectacular fleet.

Read more about the Regatta here...

Rainbow :a J-class boat with a future

2010-02-09T12:00:00.004Z

On Friday 22nd January, before a large crowd, the keel was laid for Rainbow.

The original Rainbow, commissioned by Harold Vanderbilt, was built in 1934 to defend the America’s Cup against Endeavour. Rainbow’s defense was successful, but Rainbow was sold for scrap in 1940.

Gerard Dykstra & Partners have been asked to redesign this Dutch flagged J-class boat, based on the original drawings.

Rainbow will be built to win but this does not mean there will be less comfort below decks. As may be expected on a yacht this size, the interior design will be luxurious and comfortable. According to the original plans a Boxboom will be used instead of the “Park Avenue” boom and the design of the rigging will be original too. But the 40 meter yacht will now have an aluminium hull and full carbon mast and rigging.

Rainbow will be fitted with a diesel-electric propulsion system. Two generators deliver 350Kw shaft horsepower. The propeller, which has hydraulically adjustable pitch, will be used to charge the batteries on Atlantic crossings. This hybrid engine is smaller and lighter than other engines. This feature makes Rainbow quite unique.

The hull is constructed by Freddie Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw in Makkum, the Netherlands. In spring 2010 the boat will be transported over water to Holland Jachtbouw in Zaandam where she will be finished. By the end of 2011 she will be launched and extensive tests and trainings will commence.

The first J-class event in which Rainbow will compete will be in July 2012 in Cowes.

Rainbow meets Endeavour again!

Rainbow will be fitted out for racing but she can also be chartered for pleasure trips or business incentives. A permanent crew of seven will look after a maximum of eight guests.

For further information contact Martine Vos (mrs) at info@rainbow-jh2.com

2010 Superyacht Cup, Antigua

2010-02-02T09:00:00.004Z

Three days of wonderful racing in the strong warm caribbean winds.

Day 1
"It was a day for the ketches" commented Mike Quilter on Ranger, "It may be a small fleet but they are all excellent boats, and without being able to use the genniker we just could not keep up. We finished third".

Day 2
The J-Boat Ranger numbers among her traditional themes no safety rails when racing in these heavy seas. It truly doesn’t get much better than this, even in the rarified atmosphere of superyacht racing, than the thrill of racing on a gorgeous, and very competitive Super-J in one of the worlds most scenic racing venues.
Today, she proved that she’s still at heart a gazelle of the sea, powering through rough waters, taking on 30 knot winds, and seemingly easily achieving over 15 knots of boat speed. Despite the fact that the conditions required Ranger, for the first time ever during a race, to reef in her mainsail, she managed to also get up a staysail on the downwind runs, and the entire contingent of 35 crew and guests, scampered back and forth to the rails on seemingly endless tacks.
As for the lucky guests aboard today, Ranger’s skipper Alastair Tait, called the day’s racing “moist”, while long-time racing crewmember Paul Collen perhaps more accurately said “this is the wettest day we’ve ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, had.” Yet the full-time crew made sure that we all stayed dry in perfectly matching kit, and home-made cookies were served on a regular basis.

Day 3
Ranger and P2 had a tight battle all day, crossing tacks several times. At one point P2 looked to be clear ahead, but Ranger gained on the last upwind leg, beating them by just over 3 minutes.

See: http://www.thesuperyachtcup.com/ for full report.
1st Visione - 4 points
2nd Sojana - 10 points
3rd Ranger - 10 points

The J Class ‘Ranger’ and Mothership MY ‘Vita’ – FOR SALE OR CHARTER

2010-01-25T09:00:00.000Z

A unique opportunity exists to buy or charter ‘Ranger’ and her mothership ‘Vita’. Ranger has a proven racing record, having won the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and Antigua Classics. She is available fully race prepared or ready for luxury cruising. Her mahogany interior is exquisite, with four staterooms for owners and guests and accommodation for up to 8 crew. Her traditional design originates from the 1930s, but she is equipped with modern systems above and below decks.

Ranger’s mothership MY Vita, is also available for sale or charter. With a comfortable cruising speed of around 18 knots, she can accommodate and entertain 12 guests in ultimate luxury. Both yachts are immaculate with every facility possible provided for guests or crew, whether superyacht racing, cruising or just enjoying a relaxing holiday break.

Further information at: http://www.jclassyachts.com/ranger/index.html

J CLASS CALENDAR 2010 NOW AVAILABLE

2009-12-02T12:00:00.003Z

2010 DESK CALENDAR
Capture some of the J Class magic, both original 1930s and the new projects in the new desktop J Class calendar for 2010.

Each of the twelve pages features one of the yachts, offering a comprehensive view of the J Class fleet and the rebirth of the Class.

The three original yachts, Shamrock V, Velsheda and Endeavour are all featured, along with the replica new builds currently on the water, Ranger and Hanuman. There are further photographs and information on J Class yachts currently in build, as well as Svea, who has already had her lines plans approved by the J Class Association.

The history of the J Class is summarised within the calendar and many of the photographs will be seen for the first time.

The calendar costs £10.99 excluding postage, or it can be obtained at an introductory offer for those who wish to join the J Class Supporters’ Club.

This calendar or membership to the J Class Supporters’ Club would make an ideal gift for friends or family who are followers and enthusiasts of this iconic class.

BUY YOUR CALENDAR HERE

RAINBOW UPDATE - Building has started

2009-10-26T09:00:00.006Z

A replica of the J-Class RAINBOW, the famous American yacht which won the 1934 America’s Cup, has started building at Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw at Makkum in Holland. It is no surprise that Bloemsma should be selected to produce the hull as the yard has previously built “Windrose of Amsterdam” for the owner of Rainbow.

The replica re-build of this original design by William Starling Burgess will be under the supervision of Dykstra & Partners, who have more than 20 years’ experience with J Class and have been responsible for the re-builds and refits of: SHAMROCK V, ENDEAVOUR, VELSHEDA, RANGER and the new HANUMAN (Endeavour II Project).

The new RAINBOW will be constructed in aluminium, combining lightweight construction with high overall stiffness to improve sailing performance. Below deck the interior will represent 1930s styling,yet with all modern comforts for 8 guests and 8 crew.

The superstructure will have clear flush decks and the rig and sail handling systems will be similar to other Js - high modulus carbon spars, carbon rigging, 3DL sails and hydraulic winches in accordance with the JCA (J Class Association) Rules.

When the hull is complete, RAINBOW will be transported by barge, to Holland Jachtbouw where she will be finished. She will be campaigned by an experienced, proven team of sailors from Holland.

RAINBOW has a well respected pedigree. The original W. Starling Burgess design was launched on 15th May 1934, at the Herreshoff Yard in Bristol, Rhode Island, USA. She was built to defend the America’s Cup against “ENDEAVOUR”. The first 2 races were tough for RAINBOW, yet she beat ENDEAVOUR in the last four races to win. In 1937 she was sold and then challenged for the Cup defence. Sadly for her, RANGER won and RAINBOW was sold for scrap in 1940.

J Class enthusiasts and fans of these iconic racing yachts can look forward to the prospect of a re-run of the 1934 America’s Cup races between the original ENDEAVOUR and the new replica RAINBOW when she is launched.

Specification: RAINBOW
LOA: 39.95 m
LWL: 27.10 m
Hull material: Aluminum
Displacement: Approx. 176 tons
Naval Architect: Dykstra & Partners
Interior design: Dykstra & Partners
Hull construction: Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw
Shipyard: Holland Jachtbouw

VOILES DE SAINT TROPEZ - 2009

2009-10-05T09:00:00.002+01:00

SHAMROCK V sailed for the first time in the ‘Modern” fleet at the Voiles de St Tropez and with very good results bearing in mind that she was packed with charter guests. She finished a very creditable 11th out of a fleet of 36 yachts.

Her new genoa certainly seems to have transformed her performance. In two of the races she finished 7th against smaller modern race yachts, proving once again that the J’s can sail well against modern race yachts with an IRC handicap.

MAXI YACHT ROLEX CUP - SARDINIA 2009

2009-09-14T09:00:00.002+01:00

VELSHEDA was the overall winner of Class 1 at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Regatta 2009, Sardinia.

It was a great result for her, against the best of the superyachts.

She won with five straight 1st places sailed over a range of wind strengths from light up to 25 knots.

Newport Bucket Regatta - Race Summary

2009-07-20T17:00:00.002+01:00

History was made today when the replicas of both Ranger and Endeavour II (Hanuman) lined up together, 72 years after these designs first raced each other in the America’s Cup, Newport, R.I. in 1937. In that event, the British challenger Endeavour II lost to the US Cup defender, Ranger.

Today’s historic sail in the waters just off Newport, home for the America’s Cup throughout the J Class era, confirms the promise of breathtaking sailing in what are acknowledged to be the most beautiful yachts in the world.

With a soft 10mph wind and difficult sloppy sea conditions, Hanuman lined up with Ranger for a first beat to weather. Hanuman started with around a 300 metre lead and hung on to it for around one hour, suggesting that the two yachts were very evenly matched, although Hanuman is just ‘out of the box’ and Ranger is now fully race prepared.

Both yachts agreed to the same sail configuration - double headsail, cruising mainsail and asymmetric spinnaker with no pole; Ranger’s cruising mainsail was clearly well used.

Hanuman also showed great promise downwind. Whilst she had some difficulty through the gybes, she was able to stay in contact with the polished downwind performance from Ranger. This historic meeting of the two yachts takes the J Class fleet into an exciting new era with the boats evenly matched in performance, offering competitors and spectators the promise of great fleet racing.

Hanuman was built at the Royal Huisman shipyard to the original lines of Endeavour II and is a maximum size ‘Super J’, along with Ranger and the Swedish design Svea (also designed in 1937 and yet to be built).

Whilst legal battles between America’s Cup syndicates continue to exasperate onlookers, the rebirth of the great J Class yachts slowly continues.

Newport Bucket Regatta - Race 2

2009-07-20T17:00:00.001+01:00

With clear skies and a building wind from the South, the yachts got underway for this second and last race. Handicaps were reversed and Ranger was awarded a one minute earlier start on Hanuman.

With steady performance and positive tactical decisions, Hanuman overhauled Ranger to finish ahead of her by one minute.

All credit must go to Jim Clark, who not only commissioned Hanuman, based on such a great historical background, but also got behind the wheel and sailed her to success on this first outing.

Newport Bucket Regatta - Race 1

2009-07-20T17:00:00.000+01:00

Shrouded in sea fog, the NEWPORT BUCKET, an annual Pursuit Race around Newport Bay, got underway with a 10 mph Southerly breeze but by the time Hanuman and Ranger were starting, the skies had cleared to a perfect, sunny 12-15 mph breeze.

Hanuman was awarded a one minute advantage and made the best of this, crossing the line at full speed. Ranger followed in spectacular style just a few hundred metres behind. Both yachts quickly accelerated away from the spectator fleet to concentrate on their battle within the Bucket regatta fleet.

After more than two and a half hours of close racing, it was the new Hanuman who crossed the line just ahead of Ranger by 38 seconds. Hanuman had been helmed by owner Jim Clark, assisted by the experienced America’s Cup tactician and sailmaker, Tom Whidden.

Ranger, helmed by New Zealander Erle Williams (fresh from racing the Volvo Ocean Race on board Puma) closed the gap in the last few minutes of the race by setting a kite for the last sprint to the finish.

Hanuman Carries out Sail Trials

2009-04-30T09:00:00.001+01:00

Hanuman, the replica new build of Endeavour II, undergoing sail trials from the fishing port of Harlingen, Holland.

SYNFO.COM REGATTA REPORT

2009-04-23T17:00:00.003+01:00

23 April 2009 - Velsheda triumphs at Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta

Once again the ever popular Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, which ran from April 16 - 21, enjoyed another fantastic year of competitive sailing and lively social gatherings. Among the 30 metre plus yachts entered this year were the J class yachts Ranger and Velsheda, the 42 metre ketch Rebecca and the 46 metre staysail schooner Windrose of Amsterdam. All eyes were on the two Js with sailors bracing themselves for some fierce rivalry and close competition.

The weather on day one was delightful with sunshine, gentle seas and just enough winds to satisfy the needs of the 62 classic yachts entered. The fleet were well spread out as they rounded the first mark, unsurprising given the range of the LOAs of the competing yachts. The larger yachts were started an hour and a quarter after the first class but swiftly caught up with the smaller yachts in the fleet. Velsheda took the Spirit of Tradition class A finishing the twenty nautical mile course in 2 hours 33 minutes of corrected time.

There were more light winds on day two as the yachts set off to tackle the twenty mile, six-leg Butterfly course, designed to get contestants to use all their sail configurations. Velsheda triumphed for a second time showcasing her crews' nifty sail changes and trimming skills. The pimms party served on the lawn of the Antigua Yacht Club went down a treat as the competitors waited for the day's race results. As the evening worn on and crew wound down there was singing and merriment to the sounds of local band Time Machine.

Day three dawned grey and gloomy with a feeble nine knots of wind, prompting the organisers to delay the start of the race by fifteen minutes. This turned out to be a prudent decision as the trades gradually picked up throughout the day to a pleasant 12 - 15 knots, providing the majority of the fleet with a faster third leg. The yachts stretched their legs over the 24 mile course before heading back to English Harbour for the much anticipated Parade of the Classics. Then it was back to the yacht club for the famous Maine lobster bisque and champagne night. Local band the Hot Doggers provided a great soundtrack to the fun atmosphere.

On day four, the last day of racing, the fleet experienced a fair wind start with an exciting reach for the last leg with gusts of over 20 knots. The organisers reported that an unfortunate "incident" occurred between the two J Class entrants on the beat to windward forcing them both to retire. The heat of the rivalry between them had apparently caused them to crash causing minor damage to both hulls and rigs. This, however, gave Windrose of Amsterdam a chance to show her true colours as she took the class in just over three hours of corrected time. The evening was dedicated to individual crew dinners at the local restaurants as team work was celebrated before tuesday's cream team party and prize giving ceremony.

The overall regatta result for the Spirit of Tradition class A were:

1. Velsheda
2. Ranger
3. Windrose of Amsterdam
4. Rebecca

For all class results visit the regatta website.

REPORT BY YACHTING-WORLD.COM

2009-04-23T17:00:00.000+01:00

Racing got too close for comfort yesterday at the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta when the two J Class yachts Velsheda and Ranger collided in a port and starboard incident in the fourth and last race of the regatta.

According to a source in Falmouth Harbour John Williams's Ranger was on starboard when the two Js clashed with minor damage to both hulls and rigs. Velsheda, owned and steered by Ronald de Waal immediately retired while Ranger recorded a RDG - redress given.

However, that wasn't enough to bring her to the top of the table in a regatta in which Velsheda scored three 1sts and a 5th and Ranger four 2nds. Velsheda has a more advantageous rating than Ranger who was unable to overcome her handicap. She also lost a headsail during race one which ended her chances that day. On day two Ranger beat Velsheda on the water by 15 seconds but was beaten by more than three minutes on the water in race three. -- David Glenn, Yachting World, www.yachting-world.com

HANUMAN Update

2009-04-07T13:00:00.000+01:00

Following her launch and rig set up, at the Royal Huisman yard in Vollenhove, Holland recently, Hanuman is on her way to the coast today (Tuesday 7th April). Her destination is the fishing port of Harlingen in Friesland on the edge of the Wadden Sea, where she will now complete her sea trials and commissioning.

Hanuman Launched

2009-03-09T09:00:00.001Z

Hanuman, the replica new build of Endeavour II, was launched over the weekend at the Royal Huisman yard in The Netherlands. Designed by Dykstra and Partners, and with an interior by Pieter Beeldsnijder; she made a dramatic appearance as she was lowered into the water yesterday.

She was launched alongside the shipyard to step the mast and check all the rigging systems, prior to moving the yacht to the North Sea for commissioning and sea trials.

In 1937 the original Endeavour II was built in steel at Camper & Nicholson's yard in Gosport, for T.O.M. Sopwith, to designs by Charles E Nicholson. She was built to challenge for the America's Cup, against the defender 'Ranger'. click here to view the latest pics.

J Class Association Approve Lines Plans for “SVEA”

2009-02-20T09:00:00.003Z

J Class Association Approve Lines Plans for “SVEA” - One of the longest yacht construction projects - 74 years from design in 1937 to expected completion in 2011.

During 1999, whilst researching International 8 Metre plans by designer Tore Holm, John Lammerts van Bueren discovered plans for a Swedish J Class yacht dating from 1937. The fragile paper plans were close to disintegration but were thankfully saved and carefully copied.

Since the set up of the J Class Association (JCA) back in 2000 there have been several possible projects for the build of this outstanding design, but recently copyright of the original plans came into new ownership.

New lines plans for the original design of the hull have now been completed by Hoek Design and following a meeting on 17th February 2009, were fully approved by the JCA.

“SVEA” was designed to be the longest of all the Js - a racing Super J. Detailed research by the Hoek design office and other experts in the field, suggests that this will be one of the fastest of all the J Class designs. She will certainly be one of the longest at 41.50 metres overall. Current plans are to build the yacht with a flush deck as per the original design.

Building of the aluminium hull is planned to start in May 2009 at the Bloemsma Shipyard, Holland. From there it will be barged to the Claasen Jachtbouw for finishing.

Completion is due for 2011, making this one of the longest yacht construction projects - 74 years from Tore Holm’s drawing board to expected comissioning in 2011.

Specification:
LOA 41.50 m
LWL 26.55 m
Beam 6.40 m
Draft 4.57 m
Upwind Sail area 704 m2
Project designers: Hoek design
Hull and deck construction - Freddie Bloemsma Shipyard
Finishing: Claasen Jachtbouw

Download Press release .pdf here

NEW YACHT UPDATE

2009-02-02T09:00:00.006Z

ATLANTIS
The aluminium hull construction is almost complete at Bloemsma Aluminiumbouw, Holland. view pics

LIONHEART
Now well under way at Claasen Jachtbouw, Holland and due for completion in the spring 2010. view pics

HANUMAN
Almost complete at Royal Huisman Shipyard, Holland and due to launch in the next few months.

ANTIGUA CLASSIC REGATTA 2009

2009-01-26T08:30:00.000Z

Both RANGER and VELSHEDA will compete at this major sailing event in April 2009. Over the seasons each yacht has been a winner here, and this will again be a real test of performance and determination by each yacht in the big waves and strong wind conditions.
Reports and pictures will be posted here.

More: http://www.antiguaclassics.com

RECENT MAGAZINE REPORTS

2009-01-20T09:00:00.002Z

Following misleading reports in recent weeks, we wish to clarify plans for some of the yachts this season.

RANGER
Will compete in Caribbean regattas, including Antigua Classic Regatta, April 2009. She will then be based on the Eastern seaboard of the USA for the rest of the season, She is not intending to participate in European regattas during 2009.

VELSHEDA
Will also compete at the Antigua Classic Regatta, April 2009.
She is also planning to compete at the Rolex Maxi Yacht Regatta, Sardinia, September and the St Tropez Regatta, October. She will not be competing at the Superyacht Cup, Palma, June 2009.

HANUMAN
(the new replica rebuild of ENDEAVOUR II) will on completion, depart for the USA East Coast.

SHAMROCK V
Is available for Charter during the season, including European based regattas.

ENDEAVOUR
Will be refitting during 2009.

SPRING J CLASS EVENTS 2009

2008-10-06T10:00:00.000+01:00

J Class Association members have been in discussion to select the best venue for potentially four yachts to meet and race together next year in a late Spring regatta in Europe. Several venues are under consideration and at this time NO venue has been selected, contrary to recent reports in the press. When the venue is agreed, it will be announced to the press and issued on the J Class Association website here.

Ranger and Velsheda are expected to race at the Antigua Classic Regatta - see EVENTS

VOILES DE ST TROPEZ

2008-10-06T09:00:00.000+01:00

OVERALL RESULTS ST TROPEZ October 2008

Velsheda finishes second overall in the IRC Modern Class at this year's event.
Shamrock V finishes first overall in the spirit of Tradition Class with a 1st and 2nd result.

MAXI YACHT ROLEX CUP

2008-09-12T20:00:00.000+01:00

SARDINIA September 2008

In the Cruising Division, John Williams and the J Class Ranger (CAY. IS) cruised seemingly effortlessly to their second consecutive Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup victory.

Four races, four bullets tell their own story. The reality on the race course was quite different with competition coming from the other J ClassVelsheda (GBR), the massive 44-metre Salperton (GBR), Hamilton II (GBR) and Hetairos (CAY IS).

NEW J CLASS YACHT NAMED

2008-08-12T21:00:00.000+01:00

'ATLANTIS'
The J Class Association is pleased to announce that the name of the new Frank C Paine ‘A’ design yacht will be “ATLANTIS”. This yacht has been commissioned for a Dutch owner from original lines plans for a ‘Super J’, designed by Frank C Paine in the 1930’s. Frank Paine had previously designed the yacht "YANKEE", which was built by Lawleys in 1930. Drawings for two further designs were also fully completed. Over the past few months, lines plans have been prepared by Andre Hoek Design from original Frank Paine plans and approved by the JCA.

Frank C Paine was the son of General Charles J Paine of Boston, a three times owner of the successful America’s Cup defenders for the New York Yacht Club, “Puritan” in 1885 (as part of a syndicate) and later “Mayflower” (1886) and “Volunteer” (1887). He was brought up in the world of yachts and was younger brother to an amateur yacht designer John Paine, who had designed ‘Jubilee’ for a Boston based syndicate for the 1893 Defence when ‘Vigilant’ was selected by the New York Yacht Club.

Frank went on to become one of the most important designers during the first half of the twentieth century. He worked alongside designers such as William Starling Burgess, and L Francis Herreshoff (son of Nathanial G Herreshoff) and subsequently was famous for the design of Yankee (originally an R class sloop), which launched in 1930 and was renowned for being fast in a breeze and the beamiest of her contemporaries.

A subsequent major refit for the 1934 Defender Trials at the yard of George Lawley and Son altered Yankee’s forward and mid sections to optimise her for light to medium weather, which provided a marked improvement to her boatspeed.† Credits to Frank Paine were made at the time, as her centreboard was the only one to measure under the then new J Class Rule for the 1934 event.

After that conversion, Yankee became a very successful contender, owned by Gerard Lambert who also owned the schooner Atlantic. Frank Paine had designed three Super Js for the 1936 America’s Cup, most probably for Mr. Lambert.

‘ATLANTIS’ has been researched by the Hoek office, and found to be a good all round performer. She is the longest waterline J Class designed, with the highest keel aspect ratio, combined with the lowest wetted surface area. Frank Paine had already calculated in the 1930s, that it was better to take a penalty on an increased waterline length in a trade off against sail area and displacement.

Her hull is in build at Freddie Bloemsma’s specialist aluminium construction company, and is to be finished at Claasen Jachtbouw. She will carry a High Modulus carbon mast and boom, and fibre rigging.