After time correction, Rob Craigie’s Sun Fast 3600 Bellino, racing double-handed with co-skipper RORC Commodore Deb Fish, was the winner by just 53 seconds after 22 hours of racing.
A Fresh Take on Doublehanded Dinghy Sailing
Tuesday
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The Melges 15 is redefining what sailors can expect from a modern, doublehanded dinghy. Since its launch, the boat has gained momentum across America and Europe for one simple reason — it delivers high-performance sailing with unmatched accessibility.
First women-led owner for SailGP
Tuesday
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
As one of two new teams for Season Five, the Italy SailGP Team revealed it is funded by a group of investors organized by Muse Sport, the sports investing and advisory practice of early-stage VC firm Muse Capital. The consortium is led by Muse founding partner Assia Grazioli-Venier, Italian luxury brand entrepreneur Gian Luca Passi de Preposulo, and team CEO Jimmy Spithill.
The transaction, which valued the team at $45 million, also includes Hollywood flair. Academy Award winning actress Anne Hathaway is among the investors, while Passi de Preposulo is married to Academy Award-winning actress and producer Jessica Chastain.
“Anne brings both vision and values to the table. We hope her involvement encourages more people to look under the hood of this league and realize this is not our grandfather’s sailing,” Grazioli-Venier told ESPN. “Her presence reflects the kind of team we’re building — one with heart, talent, and purpose.”
Muse Capital’s portfolio includes the Washington Spirit of the National Women’s Soccer League, Women’s Professional Baseball League, Sports Innovation Lab, and Just Women’s Sports. The acquisition marks the first women-led ownership group for the global racing championship.
The Italian-born Grazioli-Venier got her first taste of SailGP team ownership through the U.S. team, which she invested in several years ago as a minority partner. While the latest transaction closed in February, the new owners have effectively been financing and operating the team since its on-water debut in November.
SP80 kiteboat reaches a top speed of over 58 knots
Tuesday
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
May 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The SP80 kiteboat has reached a top speed of over 58 knots, or 108 km/h. This new personal best makes SP80 the second fastest sailboat ever recorded, behind Vestas Sailrocket II and its 68.01-knot top speed.
never enough, 2
Thursday
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
For cryin’ out loud, how many of these damn near look a like 70′ + luxury liners can about 10 manufacturers produce? It just shows how much money people have to buy something like this, the new Oyster 805.
Wonder how many will be sold from now on in the Trump Economic Disaster?
never enough
Thursday
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
This is Magic Carpet e, the brand new maxi that is undefeated after two races at the PalmaVela.
If you can stomach it, you can watch yet another mind-numbing, quick-cut video of the event here. – ed.
Defending champion Chris Poole USA leads Congressional Cup
Thursday
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
Defending champion Chris Poole USA, leads first day of the Congressional Cup at Long Beach
Newport to Ensenada Race With ‘Favonius 2’
Thursday
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
May 01
2025
Posted by deleteme
Greg Dorn’s San Francisco Yacht Club-flagged Favonius 2 (Transpac 52) raced the 77th Newport to Ensenada Race on Friday. We used the race as another training session for the 2025 Transpac coming up in July.
© 2025 Matthew Sessions
Conditions were fairly mellow but consistent this year. For our noon start in the Maxi class, we had overcast skies, which slowly burned off to a late afternoon sun and a spectacular sunset. Winds for the majority of the race were 8-12 knots. The top teams all navigated slightly east of rhumb line this year for best routing. We sailed within 2–3 miles of Mission Bay and Point Loma, and the sunset inside the Coronado Islands was spectacular.
© 2025 Matthew Sessions
Our main competitors Zephyrus (R/P 77) and Fast Exit II (Ker 52) did a great job in the reaching conditions. At 9 p.m. in the darkness south of Rosarito, they had extended to a 5–7-mile lead on us. We were in a strong third for line honors with a half-dozen boats within five miles of our transom.
© 2025 Matthew Sessions
Just as our navigator Sylvian Barrielle predicted, we were lifted at 10 p.m., jibed onto the port-tack header, and lined up perfectly for the finish line 21 miles away. Zephyrus and Fast Exit barely slowed down on final approach to Ensenada, and both finished around midnight–12:30 a.m. The nighttime wind gods (unsurprisingly) wouldn’t let us pass through so smoothly. We had a few starts and stops inside the last 10 miles to finish third on line honors at 3:05 a.m.
© 2025 Matthew Sessions
Quick high-fives and cleanup followed, and then it was a skeleton shift on deck as we motorsailed right back to San Diego. An early Saturday afternoon lunch at SDYC was welcomed as we debriefed the race and discussed further improvements for the Favonius 2 crew and yacht. Our next race is the SoCal 300 at the end of May.
© 2025 Matthew Sessions
Beyond the racing there are the natural wonders captured while sailing south:
The post Newport to Ensenada Race With ‘Favonius 2’ appeared first on Latitude38.
M32 Catamaran: World’s coolest yachts
Thursday
May 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
May 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Yachting World has been asking top sailors and marine industry gurus to choose the coolest and most innovative yachts of our times, and match racing world champion Ian Williams nominated the M32 Catamaran. Here’s the report:
As a match racer, Ian Williams frequently jumps into different classes of boats, but the Marström-designed M32 Catamaran is his pick. “What I love about the M32 is the simplicity of design allowing for such a light weight boat (550kg all up) which makes for a number of sailing and practical benefits.
“The boat can be towed behind a normal car, and rigged and launched from a slipway in a few hours.
“On the water, the boat is incredibly responsive, flying a hull in as little as four knots of wind. The C-boards and relatively full bows mean they are also controllable in strong winds, but if you do capsize they are quite straightforward to right with a medium sized RIB, usually with no damage.”
The M32 Catamaran has a rotating rig and hiking racks. “With only two sails, rigging is very quick, and the job list is usually very short. Combined with getting around the race course at high speed means you can step off the boat about four hours after stepping on, having completed five races. Top speed is about 28 knots in perfect conditions, but the boat regularly sails downwind at 23 knots.”
M32 Catamaran stats rating
Top speed: 28 knots
LOA: 9.68m/31ft 9in
Launched: 2011
Berths: 0
Price: $250,000
Adrenalin factor: 85%
For Yachting World’s list of cool boats, click here.
Transatlantic Race 2025 Preview
Friday
Apr 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The Transatlantic Race 2025 from the East Coast of the United States to the shores of the United Kingdom stands as one of sailing’s most time-honored and demanding challenges.
Hail and Farewell
Friday
Apr 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
by Buttons Padin
On a ship in the Navy, Hail and Farewell parties blend the arrival of a new member of the wardroom with a send-off for a departing shipmate. In the Racing Rules of Sailng 2025-2028, an improper “hail” could result in an untimely “farewell” from the protest room.
The current rules address Hailing as follows:
20.1 Hailing
A boat may hail for room to tack and avoid a boat on the same tack by hailing ‘Room to tack.’ However, she shall not hail unless:
• She is approaching an obstruction and will soon need to make a substantial course change to avoid it safely, and
• She is sailing close-hauled or above.
In addition, she shall not hail if the obstruction is a mark and a boat that is fetching it would be required to change course as a result of the hail.
Intertwined in this rule are a number of subtle points that most sailors “reading through the rules” quickly may miss. Let’s consider hailing at an obstruction. – Full report
cover boy
Thursday
Apr 24
2025
Posted by deleteme
Apr 24
2025
Posted by deleteme
When I first saw the March cover of Latitude 38 floating around San Diego, I had to pick it up. I mean, come on — that’s just a badass shot. Winger mid-carve, massive swell, moody lighting — you can almost hear the wind, and feel the harsh light and spray. Then I noticed the credit: Jacob Rosenberg. Wait, that Jacob? The co-founder and president of Tajima Direct — one of our favorite advertisers and makers of the best lens technology on the planet?!!
Turns out, yeah. Jacob’s not just building the sailor’s favorite lens tech — the guy absolutely charges on the water, too. I sent him a note to ask about the shot. His answer:
“Just another day in the office testing lenses. I was actually wearing a new pair of Tajima prescription polarized lenses I made for myself. It was one of the biggest days we’ve seen in a while … solid 10 to 15 foot breaking faces under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. I was out with a couple of buddies riding huge waves and testing lenses. Bryan McDonald and Grace Towle just happened to be there with the camera and perfect boat positioning — one of those perfect timing situations for all of us.”
Jacob and his Crissy Field wing crew are wrapping up wave season and switching back into race mode for the 2nd Annual US Wing Foil Nationals hosted by St. Francis YC this June. Jacob’s a serious contender — he took 3rd last year — and Tajima Direct is stepping up as a sponsor in support of the event. You can check out his write-up from last year’s Nationals right here.
Want the full story behind the cover shot — and what it’s like testing new lens tech in 15-foot surf under the Golden Gate?
VIDEO: The World’s Most Advanced Maxi
Thursday
Apr 24
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 24
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Matt Sheahan tours the new Magic Carpet-e, considered to be the most advanced Maxi in more than a decade. In the first of three reports, Matt speaks to owner Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, skipper Danny Gallichan, and project manager Ed Bell about this sophisticated and slippery 100-footer.
How to follow the Transat Paprec
Friday
Apr 18
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 18
2025
Posted by XS Editor
This Sunday at 13:02, the 19 duos competing in the Transat Paprec will set sail across the Atlantic Ocean. The morning promises to be full of emotion.
Cayard and Spithill Join America’s Cup Hall of Fame Class of 2025
Friday
Apr 18
2025
Posted by deleteme
Apr 18
2025
Posted by deleteme
California sailing legend Paul Cayard, Australian-born racer Jimmy Spithill, and Susan Henn, the first known woman to compete in the America’s Cup, have been announced as the Herreshoff Marine Museum/America’s Cup Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Each sailor is recognized for their personal achievements and positive influence on the sport and in America’s Cup racing.
Paul Cayard has been in the sailing news for decades and has won seven world championships and the Whitbread Round the World Race, competed in seven America’s Cup campaigns, and is a two-time Olympian. He has also been highly active in official roles behind the sailing scene including board chair for the St. Francis Yacht Club, former executive director of US Olympic Sailing, and president of the International Star Class Association.
© 2025 International Star Class
Cayard’s first America’s Cup campaign was as a sail trimmer aboard the 12 Meter Defender in 1983. He served as tactician in the 1987 America’s Cup in Fremantle, Australia. He went on to win multiple sailing events and championships including the International Star Class Worlds, the Maxi Yacht World Championship, and the 1997–98 Whitbread Round the World Race. In 2000 Cayard launched an America’s Cup campaign on behalf of his home club, the St. Francis Yacht Club, with his team AmericaOne. He is also an inductee of the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame.
Jimmy Spithill was just 4 years old when Australia II won the 1983 America’s Cup. His first boat was a race-ready dump-find, recovered from a dump and made ready for racing, and in 1989, together with his sister, he won the first race he ever entered. In 1997 he captained his crew to win the Australian High School Sailing Championship. That same year Spithill was named New South Wales Youth Yachtsman of the Year.
© 2025 Kieran Cleeves/SailGP
In 1998 Spithill was recruited to race the Rolex Sydney Hobart race aboard Ragamuffin, and in 2000 at age 20, he became skipper of Young Australia for the 2000 America’s Cup in San Diego — the Cup’s youngest-ever helmsman. Subsequent America’s Cup campaigns followed, including roles with the USA’s American OneWorld and ORACLE teams, and Italy’s Luna Rossa. In 2024, Spithill retired at the conclusion of the America’s Cup in Barcelona but not before having led numerous teams aboard foiling trimarans, the foiling wing sail AC72 and AC50 catamarans, foiling AC75 monohulls, and the foiling F50s as captain for the US SailGP Team.
Susan Matilda Cunninghame-Graham Henn (1853-1911) is celebrated as the first woman to compete, and ultimately command a yacht, in the America’s Cup. Henn sailed aboard the 102-ft steel cutter Galatea in the 1886 match against the Mayflower. Henn and her husband Lt. William Henn sailed across the Atlantic for the race against Mayflower, proving Henn’s disposition for a life at sea. When her husband became ill during a race, Henn took charge of their yacht, once more demonstrating her exceptional sailing skills.
© 2025 Harpers Weekly, August 1886
The America’s Cup Hall of Fame has inducted over 100 individuals since its founding in 1992. Candidates eligible for consideration include sailing team members, designers, builders, syndicate leaders, supporters, chroniclers, and other individuals of merit. Each nominee is judged on the basis of outstanding ability, international recognition, character, performance, and contributions to the America’s Cup. The members of the Selection Committee are intimate with the history and traditions of the America’s Cup and are committed to maintaining the integrity of the Hall of Fame.
Cayard, Spithill, and Henn will be honored on October 16 at the America’s Cup Hall of Fame Induction at the New York Yacht Club.
The post Cayard and Spithill Join America’s Cup Hall of Fame Class of 2025 appeared first on Latitude38.
good question
Friday
Apr 18
2025
Posted by deleteme
Apr 18
2025
Posted by deleteme
As the owner of a stock 41-year-old Hobie 33 in an area with at least one questionable 33 (and one I will immediately protest when we race against it), I don’t think equitable OD racing would be possible. This post from the forum is a good one…- ed.
We’ve had a recent influx of boats into a one-design class at our club. The issue is that the design (and all the boats) are 40-something years old and not all have been treated the same in that time. Realistically, the difference between the best and worst boats in that fleet is probably ~10 sec / mile.
I like OD racing as much as the next guy, but ostensibly OD fleets should take the “boat factor” out of the equation and let the best skippers rise to the top and I’m not sure that is a realistic proposition with old beercan level boats. At the top of the class for major regattas, nationals, worlds etc. the boats can be remarkably close across the fleet, but at the local club level they are generally not.
Now, first, I have no dog in this fight. I’m just curious to hear others’ opinions and thoughts. Second, I have read the forum discussions on how to try to keep things level in inexpensive OD fleets (e.g. new sail limits, round-robin boat assignment etc.).
I realize that whether OD or handicap racing, boat condition is not accounted for and those with deep pockets or a knack for boat maintenance have an advantage. Here are the things I am wondering about:
1. Is it worth racing these things OD for Wednesday beercans, or will it always be too big a spread between boat condition to make for close racing?
2. At a small club that can scarcely get a dozen boats on the start line on Wednesdays anyways, is it worth having a separate OD fleet? Would it be better to just lump everyone together (and the OD boats could have their own separate scoring if they really want)?
Eight Bells: Garry Hoyt
Sunday
Apr 13
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 13
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Garry Hoyt, visionary sailor and advertising executive, passed away peacefully at home in Newport, Rhode Island on March 31, 2025. He was 93 years old.
Garry’s first career was with the leading global advertising and marketing agency of Young & Rubicam in New York City. After a short time, he was promoted to Senior Vice President and Creative Director, to lead business operations and creative services for all Y&R offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Latin America and the Far East.
The twenty-five years spent in the Caribbean allowed him to focus on his favorite sport of sailing during his free time. He represented Puerto Rico in the Olympic Games in Mexico, 1968, Germany, 1972, and Canada, 1976. In St. Thomas, USVI (1970), he became the first Sunfish World Champion. During his years of competitive sailing, he won many trophies in the Caribbean Ocean Racing Circuit and in later years at the Nantucket Yacht Club.
Garry retired from Y&R after 25 years to pursue his unwavering passion for sailing. He moved to Newport, RI in 1980 where he began his second career. He founded Freedom Yachts and for the next twenty-five years he was a yacht designer and innovative entrepreneur.
He was honored with Sail Magazine’s 1999 Award for innovation and in 2001 their Award for Industry Leadership. To acknowledge his many accomplishments, he was inducted into the Barnegat Bay Sailing Hall of Fame in 2008 and the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2022.
Garry was the inventor and owner of ten patents. He was the author of five books, his first being ‘Go For The Gold’, written in 1971. He was the architect behind countless designs under the Freedom Yachts, Escape, and Alerion brands.
In the words of Bill Schanen, Publisher and Editor of Sailing Magazine, “These boats were the brainchild of one of the most innovative minds in the world of sailing, that of Garry Hoyt. This hard-core sailing competitor and savvy businessman had a single cause: to make sailing Swifter, Safer and Simpler. He was a World Champion Sailor, Olympic competitor, Yacht Designer, widget Inventor and book author. Garry Hoyt was an authentic Renaissance man of sailing, indeed.”
Garry was born in Elizabeth, NJ to Robert T. and Frances M. (Garrison) Hoyt on April 7, 1931. He was predeceased by his parents and former wife, Patricia T. Hoyt. Garry grew up in Plainfield, NJ. The family summered in Beachwood, NJ and were members of the Beachwood Yacht Club, where Garry learned to sail at the age of 8.
He graduated from Plainfield High School Class of 1948 and Colgate University Class of 1952. He was Captain of the swim team at both schools. This was followed by service to his country in the United States Coast Guard. In 1956 he earned a graduate degree from American Institute of Foreign Trade, now named Thunderbird School of Global Management in Phoenix, Arizona.
Garry was a member of The New York Yacht Club, the Nantucket Yacht Club, the Ida Lewis Yacht Club, the Storm Trysail Club and the Naval War College Foundation.
He leaves his wife of 43 years, Donna Robinson Hoyt, his sister-in-law, Janet L. Robinson, his children: Mary C. Brittingham (David) of Washington, DC, Jeffrey T. Hoyt (Yolanda) of Boynton Beach, FL, Eric G. Hoyt (Lilian) of Fort Lauderdale, FL, five grandchildren, four great grandchildren, his brothers, Robert T. Hoyt, Jr. of Newtown Square, PA and Timothy S. Hoyt of Pine Beach, NJ, several nieces, nephews and cousins.
The Memorial Observance will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Sail Newport or the National Sailing Hall of Fame, both of which are in Newport, RI.
J/70 Corinthian Europeans in Cascais day 3
Sunday
Apr 06
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 06
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The inaugural J/70 Corinthian European Championship has been a roller coaster of conditions at Clube Naval de Cascais Portugal…
NZL Sailing Team: Bronze for Ten Have
Sunday
Apr 06
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 06
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The 24-year-old Tauranga sailor claimed bronze in the women’s iQFOiL at the 2025 Princess Sofia Trophy regatta in Palma, Mallorca on Saturday following a strong display of speed and consistency in her first major regatta since finishing 10th in Marseille…
Bayview Mackinac Race Communication #6
Saturday
Apr 05
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 05
2025
Posted by XS Editor
USSailing’s application was designed to be completed in sections. An owner can submit their initial application without having all the required measurement data on hand, including your final crew weight.
Seattle set to host Clipper Race stopover
Saturday
Apr 05
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 05
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Seattle is set to host the Clipper 2025-26 Race as the global sailing event has announced the city will feature on its race route…
Eight Bells: Don Stokes
Friday
Apr 04
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 04
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Donald Gregg Stokes, 73, of Topsfield, MA departed this life on Wednesday, March 27, 2025. His principal passion of competitive sailing began from working at Hood Sails in Marblehead and carried on to the highest levels as a prime candidate for the 1980 Olympic USA Sailing Team.
He launched Stokes Boatworks, Inc., a full-service boatyard that built a fine reputation as an expert in custom boat work, constructing, and preparing racing sailboats for worldwide competition. His boats won many races in the Etchells, Lightning, J/24 and J/30 classes, with one of his Echells standing atop the podium at the 1981 World Championship in Marblehead.
He trained in Hawaii and Australia as practice crew for the 1987 America’s Cup, and volunteered in his later sailing years as an instructor at the Courageous Sailing Center in Boston.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA he was the son to the late Delores Jean Gregaitis & Edward Donald Stokes, and beloved husband to Debra A. Stokes.
Don was a husband, father, grandfather and stalwart friend. Don was a proud and loyal navy recruit in the United States Navy. His dedication to his family was evident in every aspect of his life.
Involved early on in Boy Scouts, he proudly achieved Eagle Scout, eventually involving both of his sons in Scouting as Scoutmaster. Don enthusiastically volunteered and coordinated many learning events for his Troop.
Don was an exceptional person with many abilities and interests. He was known for his innovative artwork and would often be found in his workshop creating sculptures utilizing hardwoods from clear-felled trees. His original creations were featured at local Art Exhibitions alongside the work of his father, Ed Stokes.
Don gladly volunteered his wood craftmanship frequently and donated many creations to benefit children. In recent times building and donating sizable Rocking Horses for the 2022 National Adoption Day celebration at Essex Probate and Family Court in Salem, MA.
Don fostered his love of woodworking by forming a specialty construction and historic restoration company, Harrison Taylor Enterprises (HTE). HTE was responsible for the renovation/restoration of many homes throughout New England, with work featured in local builder’s magazines, Fine Woodworking, and being featured on several episodes of “This Old House” as hosted by Bob Vila.
Don was an enthusiastic Motorsports fan, predominantly focused on Formula 1. Don would always set aside Sunday mornings to cheer on his favorite team and driver, Ferrari and Michael Schumacher. Don would most often be seen sporting some form of Scuderia Ferrari gear and made sure to introduce his sons to his Sunday ritual as often as he was able.
Don is survived by his wife, Debra, sons Harrison and Dillon, and grandson Wesley. Two brothers – George B. Stokes and Robert A. Stokes – and his very much loved adopted English Lab, Buddy Blu. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by one brother, Allan.
Funeral services for Don are private. Contributions may be made in Don’s memory to The American Cancer Society, 3 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.
Source: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/donald-stokes-obituary?id=58048852
Alien Encounters on the High Seas
Wednesday
Apr 02
2025
Posted by deleteme
Apr 02
2025
Posted by deleteme
A rough rendering of the Coast Guard’s Feb. 26 encounter off Southern California.
© 2025 ChatGPT/aka “chatdawg”
We are not alone in the universe!
On February 26, a USCG/Department of Homeland Security press release read: Coast Guard encounters over a dozen aliens off the coast of southern California.
How was this not bigger news?
After centuries of speculation and generations of fiction imagining other worlds and new beings, suddenly — on a Tuesday morning — the Coast Guard made first contact somewhere off SoCal.
Will the world ever be the same? Surely, something of this magnitude would forever change humanity.
Star Trek posited that after making first contact with an alien species, the nagging problems plaguing humanity vanished, or rather, humanity abandoned war and strife and instead sought to embrace what was beyond Earth. Aliens opened the door to a utopia.
Or maybe an alien encounter would be more like Star Wars, where war and strife were taken to the stars. (Not to worry, the bad guys have terrible aim.) Or maybe the alien encounter would be more like Watchman, where a false-flag attack from an extraterrestrial brought the US and Russia (still the USSR) back from the brink of nuclear war — uniting two foes against a common external threat.
Juxtaposing the Coast Guard’s previous press release, on January 21, a USCG headline read: Coast Guard interdicts 26 migrants near Oceanside Harbor. “Coast Guard crews interdicted a panga-style vessel. A boarding team safely embarked the 26 individuals who represented multiple nationalities, including those from Mexico, China and Vietnam,” a press release said.
The alien event on February 26 was, of course, a near-identical situation: The Coast Guard said that three assets “participated in the encounter … [Coast Guard] crewmembers turned over custody of the aliens, including Mexican, Chinese, and Indian nationals, to Customs and Border Protection for further processing.”
The Coast Guard added in the February release that they “work closely with federal and international partners to disrupt human smuggling operations and ensure the safety of those at sea.”
Latitude considered asking the Coast Guard about the language change, but decided against it. That would have been inappropriate. The Coast Guard is just following orders … and they have better things to do, like saving lives.
Clearly, the language change came from high above.
The day after the new administration was sworn in, the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued a memo directing ICE to use “alien” instead of “noncitizen” in all communications, rescinding previous guidance from 2021. “Alien” had long been the legal term in federal law but had fallen out of favor in some agencies due to its negative connotations. This is only natural — language is dynamic and has always evolved with time.
Being the starving writers that we are, we here at Latitude believe in the importance of words. We are open to words changing our minds, and we hope that our own words might give people who don’t agree with us something to ponder. Believing in language is a little like believing in life outside Planet Earth, though — it requires faith and hope, and it’s a little scary. Who knows if the message will be received?
Language can be manipulated (both sides do it) and set-in-the-stone morals can be flip-flopped. (Liberals now hate Teslas and conservatives love them.) Who is the enemy? (Those fu@king Canadians?) Whom are we afraid of? And where does that fear come from? From the words we read, or from what’s happening in our everyday lives?
We thank the Coast Guard for watching after migrants, aliens, extraterrestrials, individuals, commercial mariners and pleasure boaters with equal care and skill.
The post Alien Encounters on the High Seas appeared first on Latitude38.
America’s Cup set to return to the USA
Tuesday
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
President Donald J. Trump has proclaimed that the next America’s Cup, the prestigious sailing competition dating back to 1851, will be held at his private club, Mar-a-Lago…
Killer whales sink yacht in Baltic Sea
Tuesday
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Not far from the German headland of Cape Arkona, a sailing boat sank March 31 due to massive water ingress. The crew had to climb into the life raft, from which they were rescued a short time later by a fishing boat. The accident was preceded by an attack by killer whales.
According to the crew, the animals were after the yacht’s rudder, which then caused a large leak. The bilge pump was unable to cope with the rapidly penetrating water, with the yacht sinking within a very short time. It is the first documented incident of this kind in the Baltic Sea. Previously, such attacks were only known from the Iberian Atlantic coast and the Strait of Gibraltar. – Full report
Will Olympic home host America’s Cup?
Tuesday
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Apr 01
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Now that Auckland has removed itself as an option to host the 38th America’s Cup, the leading candidates floating in the media are Italy and Greece, with Greek billionaire George Prokopiou as the man behind his nation’s bid to host the next America’s Cup in 2027.
The 78-year-old shipping tycoon is one of Greece’s richest men with a net worth of more than NZ$6.5 billion, according to Forbes, and is hoping to stage sailing’s biggest event in Athens for the first time.
While Naples is reportedly Italy’s potential host city, that venue may be seen as an advantage to the Italian challenger while Athens would provide a neutral site with significant Olympic history as host to 1st and 28th Games. – Full report
Details: https://www.americascup.com/
Defender New Zealand will work with the Challenger of Record from Great Britain to organize the 38th America’s Cup. Anticipated to be held in 2027, the two teams have agreed on some details with the venue to be confirmed by June 2025 after Barcelona declined hosting another edition.
Craig Wood has set off across the Pacific
Thursday
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
33-year-old former British soldier Craig Wood has officially begun his world first maritime expedition to become the world’s first triple amputee to sail solo, non-stop and unsupported 7,000 nautical miles across the Pacific Ocean…
AUS sailors get a head start on Olympic waters
Thursday
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
As the Australian summer concludes and the sailors are set for the 2025 international regattas, the Australian Sailing ILCA7 squad has made a crucial stopover in Long Beach, California, the future home of the LA 2028 Olympic sailing competition…
Revealing the Secrets of the ‘Impossible’ XR 41
Thursday
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 27
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The XR 41 from X-Yachts was quite a departure from what they’d been doing for the last 15 years: concentrating on high-end Performance Racing Cruisers. This is an out and out race yacht, but it’s also a sporty cruiser, thanks to its modular interior…
Bring the fun back to sailing
Tuesday
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
In a session at the 2025 US Sailing Leadership Forum, Bring the Fun Back to Sailing Using Innovative Regatta Formats, the title implies that the fun has left sailing. Has it? Increased participation does follow fun, and growth in the sport is limited. Here are some of the observations shared:
• Conflicting commitments reduce time for traditional weekend racing.
• Conventional racing (ie, W/L courses) is expensive and labor-intensive for organizers and teams.
• Limited availability of regular crew for conventional racing.
• Casual formats and performance cruising are more inclusive and popular.
• Participation is dropping almost everywhere except in innovative, fun formats.
Alternate starting formats:
• Pursuit Starts: Staggered starts based on handicaps; reduces stress.
• Le Mans Starts: Boats anchored with sails down, adding excitement.
• Two-Way Starts: Closed courses where boats can sail in either direction.
• Rally Races: Focus on hitting a predetermined time for finishing.
Innovative race formats:
• Point-to-Point Races: Include destinations with social events.
• Mixed Formats: Buoy and distance races in multi-day events.
• Casual Races: Government mark options, harbor tours, and ‘random’ races.
• Youth & Tech Appeal: Kite/foiling slalom races, newer creative formats.
• Match/Team racing combinations: Attracts various skills.
Events with innovative formats:
• 2025 Annapolis YC 3-2-1 Invitational (Annapolis, MD)
• 2025 O’pen Skiff North American “Un-Regatta” (Pensacola, FL)
• 2025 AYC Two Bridge Fiasco Race (Annapolis, MD)
• 2025 SDYC Hot Rum Series (San Diego, CA)
• Bang & Go Back: Open to any type of boat, starting all together on a beam reach, aiming for a destination until a cannon sounds (~ 30 min), turning back on the sound to the start/finish line, first boat back wins.
Three times America’s Cup winner passes away
Tuesday
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
There wasn’t a boat Matt Mitchell couldn’t race or a challenge he wasn’t up for. And, say those closest to the America’s Cup star and grassroots sailing champion, no one was spared his good-hearted quips.
San Francisco SailGP news, Vendee Globe, GL52s
Tuesday
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 25
2025
Posted by XS Editor
One of the coolest aspects of SailGP’s fifth season of racing has been the rotating cast of characters who have been reaching the podium’s top step. This past weekend, in San Francisco, it was the Spain SailGP Team’s time to shine…
2025 GL52 Pensacola Cup overall
Monday
Mar 24
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 24
2025
Posted by XS Editor
On the fourth and final day of the GL52 Pensacola Cup regatta (3/23/25) two races were run in 10-13 knots of breeze.
SailGP: Flying Roos dismasted in Pre-start
Sunday
Mar 23
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 23
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The Flying Roos (AUS) broke their wingsail in the final seconds leading up to the start of Race 7 of the Oracle SailGP Regatta in San Francisco.
Going to publish the ‘F’ word – Again!
Sunday
Mar 23
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 23
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Now we published the first one back in June last year. It did really well, thank you. Very much appreciated. Clearly, there are lots of young sailors out there looking to add a load of fun to their sailing, and are keen to get into the foiling world.
Up & coming young athletes look to make their mark
Friday
Mar 21
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 21
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The entry lists are now almost definitive and confirm a historic post-Olympic edition, with almost 850 boats registered comparing favourably to the 779 which took part at the first Sofia regatta of the Paris 2024 cycle.
SailGP: Denmark out for San Francisco
Friday
Mar 21
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 21
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The Rockwool Denmark Racing SailGP Team will not compete in San Francisco after damage sustained in Los Angeles was deemed too extensive to repair in time for the weekend.
Windsurfer IT set for serious fun off Waiheke
Thursday
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The Interdominion Windsurfer LT event, starting Friday, is to challenge the Australian and Pacific nation Windsurfer LT sailors to show the New Zealand Windsurfer LT sailors how they compare on an international level.
Keys to the personal safety kit
Thursday
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
A successful rescue is always rooted in preparation which George Day has us thinking about in this report for the Cruising Compass:
We’re soon going to be in the spring and early summer migration and offshore event season so our thoughts turn to the gear we’ll need to be safe out there. We’ll need the foul weather gear for the region we’re sailing. Got that. Sea boots. Check. Sailing gloves and a watch cap if the nights will be cold. Check. Headlamp with a red lens. Check. New-last-year PLB with AIS. Check.
And then there’s the most important item, an inflatable PFD/harness with a good tether. Last week we reviewed the new Mustang Atlas PFD which impressed me and made me look at my very old and bulky Mustang unit with a clear eye. It’s going to be replaced.
But just as important is the tether and the hooks at either end. These little bits of gear are the keys to the whole personal safety kit. If you don’t stay on the boat because the hook at the end of your tether failed, everything else is now Plan B. – Full report
VIDEO: 2025 RORC Caribbean 600
Thursday
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
Mar 20
2025
Posted by XS Editor
The 2025 RORC Caribbean 600 brought together a world-class fleet for one of the most challenging and exhilarating offshore races on the calendar. A 600-mile course weaving through 11 stunning Caribbean islands, with record-breaking Maxis, professionally crewed teams, and Corinthian sailors lining up on the same start line. Watch the full story of the 16th edition.
Event information – Race details – Entry list – Tracker – Results
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