Despite being postponed due to an outbreak of coronavirus cases, the 2021 New Zealand Millennium Cup is set to host a standout line-up of some of the most competitive sailing yachts in the world. The regatta, which will take place from March 28-31, is set to be graced by a number of Millennium Cup veterans alongside some new faces too. BOAT takes a look at the sailing yachts hoping to lift the trophy.
A familiar face at the Millennium Cup since her first appearance in 2015, Sassafras will return to do battle this year. The 34.2 metre aluminium yacht, which was launched by Dutch yard Royal Huisman in 2000, will attempt to better her 2020 fourth place finish. With naval architecture by Ted Hood and exterior design by Ted Fontaine, Sassafras can accommodate a total of eight guests with five crew members.
Based in Auckland, Tawera is no stranger to the Bay of Islands. After losing out on the title in 2018 she returned in 2019 to win the regatta and lift the trophy. After a year off, Tawera will be back and looking to secure another win in the 2021 edition of the Millennium Cup. The 28 metre sailing yacht was delivered in 1995 by Alloy Yachts and is currently offered for sale.
Fresh from competing in the Mastercard Superyacht Regatta, the 34.8 metre classic sailing yacht Aschanti IV of Vegesack will demonstrate her competitive edge as she goes head to head at this year's Millennium Cup. Launched in 1954 as Aschanti of Saba, Aschanti IV of Vegesack was built to a design by Henry Gruber. Aschanti IV of Vegesack is a veteran of the world's classic yacht regattas, and has completed several transoceanic journeys
Previously named Sovereign and sold in 2019, the 36.2 metre sailing yacht Miss Silver was originally built in aluminium by New Zealand yard Alloy Yachts in 1995. Designed by Dubois Naval Architects, Miss Silver features an RWD-designed interior with accommodation for eight guests and six crew. This high-performance sloop is capable to fast speeds and is sure to be a real Millennium Cup contender this year.
The 44.8 metre Vitters-built sailing yacht Catalina has been announced as a late entry to the Millennium Cup and is now the largest in the six sailing yacht fleet. First delivered in 2001, Catalina was designed by Dubois Naval Architects and can accommodate a total of eight guests and seven crew.