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Sailing News for June 12, 2025

A new SailGP docuseries shows what it takes to lead, while Lucky’s all-out Caribbean 600 run sets the pace. The Mini Globe Race challenges sailors’ patience and stamina, and the Star Europeans heat up early. Whale-saving AI is making its way to cruising routes, and Laser sailors can fine-tune their planing game with a fresh lesson from Coach Swifto.

Sail GP/America’s Cup

Uncharted Docuseries Offers Inside Look at SailGP’s Evolution (3 min read)
SailGP has launched Uncharted, a new three-part docuseries now streaming on Paramount+, offering fans unprecedented access to the league’s inner workings. Narrated by Jimmy Spithill, the series follows his journey from U.S. SailGP driver to Red Bull Italy CEO, highlighting the league’s rapid growth through interviews with founders Larry Ellison and Russell Coutts. Episodes roll out weekly through June and are also available via global broadcast partners or SailGP’s YouTube for select regions.

Close Call in New York as Brazil and Flying Roos Clash at the Mark (2 min read)
A dramatic near-collision unfolded in SailGP’s New York event as BONDS Flying Roos and Mubadala Brazil clashed at Gate 2 during Fleet Race 2. Tom Slingsby’s team was penalized for not allowing enough mark room to Martine Grael’s Brazilians, forcing a sudden swerve to avoid contact. Despite the setback, the Australians reclaimed the lead, with both teams finishing first and second. Brazil’s fourth-place overall finish marked a standout performance against some of the league’s top contenders.

Inshore & Offshore Racing

Stitelmann Nears Fiji Finish as Mini Globe Race Fleet Spreads Out (4 min read)
Mini Globe Race leader Renaud Stitelmann is just days from reaching Fiji, followed by Dan Turner and others navigating mixed conditions across the Pacific. After regrouping in Tonga, the fleet faced everything from dead calms to violent squalls as they pushed toward the end of Leg 2. While some sailors are thriving in solitude, others are struggling with setbacks and isolation. The next leg to Cape Town begins on 26 July following a four-week rest in Fiji.

Lucky Smashes Records in Caribbean 600 Sprint (4 min read)
Bryon Ehrhart’s 88-foot offshore yacht Lucky claimed line honors in the 2025 Caribbean 600, finishing in just under 42 hours. With a veteran crew led by Brad Butterworth and a squad of young American sailors, Lucky’s power-reaching strengths dominated the course. From tight teamwork to smart tactical calls, including navigating Guadeloupe’s tricky lee, the race showcased elite offshore racing at its finest. For the young crew members, it was a fast, unforgettable ride and a milestone moment.

Olympic Class/Dinghy Sailing

Star Class Europeans Kick Off with Tight Racing in Viareggio (3 min read)
The 2025 Star Class European Championship opened in Viareggio with two tightly contested races sailed in light breeze. Olympic medalist Tonci Stipanovic claimed the first win, while American sailing legend Paul Cayard and new crew George Iverson took the second. With 70 boats on the line and variable conditions expected ahead, the competition remains wide open. Enrico Chieffi and Nando Colaninno lead the standings after day one.

Sustainability

AI Tech Aims to Protect Atlantic Whales from Ship Strikes (4 min read)
A new partnership between SEA.AI and European scientists is using artificial intelligence to help prevent ship strikes on whales in the busy Atlantic. The system combines optical and thermal cameras with real-time AI detection to alert mariners to nearby whales, offering added safety and conservation value. Cruisers transiting whale-sensitive areas like the Canaries or Irish coast could benefit from this innovation, which supports both ecological research and smarter navigation practices. More campaigns are planned as data continues to shape protection strategies.

Tech & Gear

Navico’s New Android OS Modernizes Onboard Electronics (3 min read)
Navico has launched Neon, a new Android-based operating system for its B&G and Simrad product lines, designed to bring smartphone-like ease and app functionality to marine electronics. Debuting with the Nemesis display and expanding to devices like the Triton Edge and Zeus SR chartplotters, Neon offers a customizable interface, integrated apps, and simplified calibration tools. This marks a major step toward unified systems and smarter onboard navigation, though seasoned users of older NSS-based systems will need to adjust.

Sailing Highlight of the Day

Coach Swifto explains the when, why, and how of the “drop sheet” technique for Laser sailors aiming to sharpen their downwind performance. By quickly dropping and catching the mainsheet during a turn from broad reach to by the lee, sailors can boost power, engage the rig, and steer more effectively. This move is best used in planing conditions and requires careful timing, a high hand position, and solid boat feel. It’s a challenging but rewarding skill to master.