12 September 2011
The organisers of the most famous yachting challenge in the world, the 160-year-old America’s Cup, have chosen Jersey as the Port of Registry for their race management fleet.
For the past few months, staff at the Jersey Ships Registry have been working closely with the America’s Cup representatives in the UK and America to complete the registration of their fleet of 30 support craft.
The Jersey-registered fleet consists mainly of fast rigid inflatables and motor catamarans. Each vessel is now marked with ‘Jersey’ on the stern and will be visible not only to the sailors but also to the millions who watch the televised world-wide America’s Cup events – including the second round of the 2011-2012 AC World Series currently taking place in Plymouth.
'Oldest trophy'
The America's Cup is arguably the most difficult trophy in sport to win. In the 160 years since the first race only 4 nations have won what is often referred to as the ‘oldest trophy in international sport’.
Assistant Registrar, Debbie Podger, said: "The Jersey Ships Registry was founded in 1803, even before the first Olympic Games, so it seems fitting that such a prestigious event as the America’s Cup should be connected to our Island’s rich maritime heritage in this way.
"We are delighted and proud that the America’s Cup race management has chosen Jersey as their Port of Registry and we look forward to seeing our Jersey-registered vessels on this famous world circuit, culminating in San Francisco in 2013."
gov.je