Those who do regattas know that such an event without motor boats would be decidedly difficult to organize. From the jury boat to buoy laying rafts and more. The America’s Cup represents one of the highest technological and logistical expressions in sailing. Watching the videos (and for the lucky ones live) of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team that took part in the last America’s Cup, you will not have missed a motorized motorized assistance fleet of boats buzzing around the AC75. To wit, those same boats that also went to the rescue of American Magic after the capsize. LR team there are at least five motor boats essential for carrying out activities on the water. From dinghies to hyper-technological catamarans via even a sleeker boat: this is Luna Rossa’s “motor” team.
Luna Rossa’s five motorboats
Chase Boat – Salthouse Catalist 45
This cata-dinghy is one of Luna Rossa’s AC75 support vehicles. All the computers and systems for data monitoring and telemetry were set up on this 13-meter catamaran with tubulars on the bulwarks. Do you know the pitwall in Formula 1? This is its floating version. It is also able to flank the AC75 to make equipment changes and to get the crew on and off. Last, but not least, is a 1,800-horsepower outboard fireball powered by four Mercury 450R
Support Boat – LANCER RWC 1400
If the Salthouse Catalist 45 is the pitwall, this 13-meter dinghy is the support boat for pit stops. With a triple 300-horsepower Mercury outboard motor, it is responsible for towing Luna Rossa around the race course, but it is primarily the support boat during sea outings on which sails ready for changes are placed. This is in both training and racing.
Support Boat – Interceptor Fast 2000
This nearly 12-meter craft, powered by two 300-horsepower Mercurys each, also outboard, is the boat for observation activities, nimble to move around the race course. During the event it then flanks the other boats for all needs.
Cab Boat – STINGHER 800
A nimble 8-meter with a purpose: to serve as a cab boat between the race/training grounds and the base. A rib then used for transfer service propelled by two 115-horsepower Mercury outboards.
Guest Boat – Pardo 38
Aboard this Pardo 38, powered by a 300-horsepower Mercury triple outboard, team guests can watch AC75 races or training sessions. Read the full article here.
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