Wingsail Upgrades Underway Ahead Of New York (3 min read)
Following the Rio Sail Grand Prix cancellation, SailGP is implementing urgent repairs and upgrades to all 12 F50 wingsails ahead of the New York event. Routine testing revealed bonding issues in the shear webs, prompting a redesign featuring stronger Aluminum Nomex cores and increased laminate for added durability. Work is being carried out in the UK and U.S., with sea trials and safety checks planned before racing resumes June 7–8.

Nathan Outteridge named as New Zealand’s America’s Cup skipper (4 min read)
Emirates Team New Zealand has appointed Nathan Outteridge as skipper for the 38th America’s Cup, succeeding Pete Burling after contract negotiations fell through. Outteridge, who co-helmed during the team’s 2024 victory, is joined by a consistent core team including Blair Tuke and Andy Maloney, with newcomer Chris Draper adding depth and international experience. The move hints at potential changes to nationality rules in the upcoming Cup cycle, now under discussion with challenger of record Athena Racing.

Italy to Host 38th America’s Cup in Naples (2 min read)
Naples, Italy has been named the host city for the 38th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup, set for spring and summer 2027. This marks the first time Italy will host both the Louis Vuitton Cup and America’s Cup Match, highlighting its deep-rooted sailing culture and passionate fan base. Set against the backdrop of Mt Vesuvius, the event promises iconic racing and global attention, as Team New Zealand prepares to defend the Cup in the home waters of rival Luna Rossa.

SailGP: Develop or die – Coutts gives some advice to ageing teams (4 min read)
SailGP CEO Russell Coutts is calling on teams to invest in young talent, warning that over-reliance on aging pros could leave them trailing the rising stars of the fleet. Highlighting the Spanish and French teams’ momentum, Coutts pointed to their youth-driven success as a model for the league’s future. Alongside updates on wingsail reinforcements, he emphasized that evolving team rosters will be crucial for staying competitive in SailGP’s fast-paced format.

Doyle Sails continues to support the Cape 31 Class (4 min read)
Doyle Sails reaffirms its partnership with the Cape 31 Class, returning as a preferred sail supplier for the 2025 Mediterranean Circuit. The collaboration brings top-tier sail design, hands-on coaching, and event-based technical support to one of the fastest-growing One Design fleets. With experts like Victor Marino in the mix, Doyle continues to provide a competitive edge while showcasing its commitment to innovation and teamwork across the circuit.

Entries surpass 100 for 74 Islands Distillery Airlie Beach Race Week (4 min read)
With over 100 entries confirmed, Airlie Beach Race Week is set for a major 2025 edition as 74 Islands Distillery comes aboard as naming rights sponsor. This year’s regatta doubles as a testing ground for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic sailing venues, following the Whitsundays’ recent selection. Competitors and locals alike are excited by the global spotlight, with the region’s ideal conditions and vibrant sailing scene drawing widespread praise.

I’m a commercial skipper and this is my onboard essentials list for a Mediterranean Yacht Charter (6 min read)
Commercial skipper Viveka Herzum shares her go-to packing list for Mediterranean yacht charters, emphasizing smart, light packing and gear that balances comfort, safety, and sustainability. From soft-shell bags to biodegradable soaps and multitools, her guide blends practical wisdom with firsthand sailing experience. It’s a compact checklist for any sailor aiming to travel well-prepared and leave a lighter footprint at sea.

Fitness Tips for the Cruising Sailor (5 min read)
Staying fit at sea doesn’t require a gym, just creativity, consistency, and a few compact tools. Cruiser Douglas Weibel shares how body-weight exercises, resistance bands, and suspension straps can turn any deck into a personal fitness space. With the help of an online trainer and smart routines, he proves that maintaining strength and mobility while cruising is not only possible but life-enhancing.

Shifting to hybrid-electric propulsion >> Scuttlebutt Sailing News (3 min read)
A 2025 rule change requiring more powerful propulsion has pushed IMOCA teams to adopt hybrid-electric systems over heavier diesel engines. Teams like Malizia – Seaexplorer are leading the charge with low-voltage electric motors, expanded battery banks, and renewable integrations like solar panels and hydrogenerators. The shift not only meets class rules but boosts performance and sustainability, offering a cleaner, quieter alternative for offshore racing.