Janice of Wyoming Yacht News & Events

New Zealand

New Zealand Millennium Cup

The 2025 New Zealand Millennium Cup, held from February 1st to 4th in Auckland's Waitematā Harbour, featured sailing yachts competing in thrilling races.

Yachts at the New Zealand Millenium Cup 2020

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The Millennium Cup 2018 in New Zealand 

NZ Millenium Cup 2015 Bay of Islands

Janice of Wyoming yacht and Perseus^3 yacht at New Zealand Millennium Cup Regatta 2024

Sea Eagle yacht and Janice of Wyoming yacht at NZ Millennium Cup 2025

Janice of Wyoming yacht at New Zealand Millennium Cup Regatta 2024

Janice of Wyoming

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup - 2025">NZ Millennium Cup</a> has drawn to a close with the 34.14-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a> crowned as the winner of the 2025 edition. Organised by the NZ Marine Export Group the regatta took place from 1 to 4 February in the centre of Auckland, New Zealand. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/347367/image/large-4a14c989d4b3282733e0db66969922ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/347367">The regatta is designed to highlight the importance of the superyacht sector in New Zealand’s marine industry, as well as showcase some of the country’s most visually-striking cruising grounds in a unique manner.With courses dotted amongst the volcanoes, islands and channels of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, this was the second consecutive edition to be raced in Auckland and saw several yachts making their regatta debut.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/347369/image/large-189d79c524a92c8409043d1e93b11c54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/347369">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup - 2025">NZ Millennium Cup</a> Class saw <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a> race against the iconic 81-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6140" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Eagle81.0m (265'9&quot;)Royal Huisman2020">Sea Eagle</a>, the 42.65-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sharlou42.65m (139'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2011">Sharlou</a>, the 39.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Janice of Wyoming39.75m (130'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts2005">Janice of Wyoming</a> and the 34.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman2000">Sassafras</a>.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a> secured two first place finishes across four races, however coming into the final race <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6140" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Eagle81.0m (265'9&quot;)Royal Huisman2020">Sea Eagle</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman2000">Sassafras</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sharlou42.65m (139'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2011">Sharlou</a> were all within striking distance winning. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a> managed to cement her success, awarding her not only the title of overall race winner, but as a two time <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup - 2025">NZ Millennium Cup</a> winner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/347368/image/large-f0c2c30c7c73d9d6506f4d041e90213a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/347368">“It was a great race, we had a lot of fun and are simply proud to be part of the group that’s here,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a>’s owner as he accepted the 2025 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup - 2025">NZ Millennium Cup</a>. “Everybody loved it here and at the risk of sounding like the Oscars, thanks to all the crew who made it possible and thank you to the sponsors down here in New Zealand who make it possible for all of us to come down here and enjoy ourselves.”

Kawil crowned winner of the NZ Millennium Cup 2025

The NZ Millennium Cup has drawn to a close with the 34.14-metre Derecktor sailing yacht Kawil crowned as the winner of the 2025 edition.

34m Derecktor yacht Kawil crowned winner of the NZ Millennium Cup 2025

The 60-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> has been crowned the winner of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024">New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024</a>. After already making a name for herself on day one of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024">New Zealand Millennium Cup</a> by coming first place in Auckland's superyacht regatta, the vigorous <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> went on to win the entire event. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302999/image/large-08836a6e87f8432d9a2a5e95c5ff5709.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302999">Having been delivered by her Italy-based shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> in 2015, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3 </a>snatched the first spot on the Hauraki Gulf course, beside its blue-skied Auckland backdrop.For the first time in a decade, Auckland’s waters served as a race course for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024">NZ Millennium Cup</a>, with Orams Marine race day setting off the opening of the regatta, which spans from 23-26 February. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303005/image/large-e683d2a6759630731032640f0a4900e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303005">Out of the fleet of 20 that soared from their starting point of the volcanic cone of Rangitoto over to the bird sanctuary and back again, the formidable <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> was the first to cross over the finish line.“The highlight was the start, we had such a good start; and upwind was pretty damn good,” explains Tom Dodson, who was onboard Perseus.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303004/image/large-237ed7406b018ae69cf11fc42ef1b63f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303004">Following close behind the swift <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> 60m Series yacht Perseus^3, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Janice of Wyoming39.75m (130'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts2005">Janice of Wyoming</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman2000">Sassafras</a> arrived in second and third place.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303000/image/large-24d182b5ad70c2e21cb8915b642c53b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303000">Meanwhile, the competing catamarans Outnumbered and Cat+Ion enjoyed their own spar around the course.The exhilarating 2024 edition of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024">New Zealand Millennium Cup</a>, which is the most southerly superyacht regatta, continued to excite audiences throughout the weekend and Monday.&nbsp;On day two of the suspenseful event, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> won line honours to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman2000">Sassafras</a>’ win on corrected time, and the yacht, which has now earned a reputation as a force of nature, even went on to dominate the course on day three.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303007/image/large-1cc3f8d760a0bdf94491ea6c3f13f14b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303007">Even so, other contestants did not go overlooked, as the entry Outnumbered also snagged a prize for best finish in the multihull division, while Outnumbered’s owner remarked, “It’s our first time in New Zealand, And we’re in love with the country, we love the people.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303006/image/large-b90825ea651ab8904490830f3be04e48.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303006">During the day’s happy hours, sponsored by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Developments (Company)">Yachting Developments</a>, owners, captains, and crew of the yachts were dealt out spot prizes as a congratulations.&nbsp;

Perseus^3 wins New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024 

The 60-metre sailing yacht Perseus^3 has been crowned the winner of the New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024. 


60m superyacht Perseus^3 wins New Zealand Millennium Cup 2024

Following three nail-biting days of racing in the Bay of Islands in the world's most southerly superyacht regatta, the winner of the 2020 <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New Zealand Millennium Cup 2020">New Zealand Millennium Cup&nbsp;</a>has been crowned: the 34.14-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil.&nbsp;</a>Delivered by the US yard in back in 2000, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a> was a new entrant to the competition this year.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112174/image/large-5eae3a07a92a485d545a6e4759fafc22.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112174">Hot on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil's&nbsp;</a>heels were the four other sailing yachts vying for first place: the 33.8-metre<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Developments (Company)">&nbsp;Yachting Developments&nbsp;</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silvertip B33.8m (110'11&quot;)Yachting Developments2002">Silvertip,</a>&nbsp;the 34.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman&nbsp;</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2000">Sassafras</a>&nbsp;- delivered in the same year as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil&nbsp;</a>- the 39.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy Yachts</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Janice of Wyoming39.75m (130'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts2005">Janice of Wyoming</a>,&nbsp;and by far the largest boat of the bunch, the 54.64-metre<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">&nbsp;Vitters</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adele54.64m (179'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2005">Adele</a>,&nbsp;which was awarded second place in the competition.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112164/image/large-b37e94bc270d6a4f39499cb7286dbf5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112164"> <img src="/uploads/store/photo/112158/image/large-7354f6806f3b690f8b8b02e000095f3b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112158">The final day of racing was exciting from the beginning, with the 33.83-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silvertip B33.8m (110'11&quot;)Yachting Developments2002">Silvertip</a>&nbsp;and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sassafras34.2m (112'2&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2000">Sassafras</a>&nbsp;displaying impressively well-timed runs to the start line and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Janice of Wyoming39.75m (130'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts2005">Janice of Wyoming</a>&nbsp;sailing so close to the starting line that she crossed two seconds early, incurring a penalty as a consequence.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112159/image/large-bb36ea5df1dc48fd3bb8fc835e919534.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112159">Heading into the wind, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silvertip B33.8m (110'11&quot;)Yachting Developments2002">Silvertip&nbsp;</a>took a lower approach than the other yachts before sharply turning her knuckle bow towards the Ninepin Mark. Meanwhile, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a>&nbsp;had been out in front from the start. Despite some speculation from onlookers that she had overshot the mark, her perfect turns displayed the skills of her crew and kept her in check. Although <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silvertip B33.8m (110'11&quot;)Yachting Developments2002">Silvertip</a> and the others displayed exceptional racing throughout the day, it was newcomer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawii</a> who would secure the top spot on corrected time.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112161/image/large-a3f45e43fc3f62cc6cfa3aaba9724a85.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112161"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/112169/image/large-5c07bf50ca61b299ad2a8a104bf4ed83.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112169">The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by Peter Montgomery MBE, with the prizes presented by Orams Marine's managing director, Craig Park and Bas Isselman, sales manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman.</a> Montgomery commented on the setting of the racing, calling it a paradise and commenting that "If this isn't heaven, then it's just next door,"&nbsp;with spectators at the event also entertained by the appearances of a local dolphin pod.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112155/image/large-6e08b9e6548fcb8628da97e9ce9a9bcf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112155">The owner of repeat competitor <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silvertip B33.8m (110'11&quot;)Yachting Developments2002">Silvertip</a>&nbsp;commented on the event, calling the regatta "extraordinary" and stating that "It's a great privilege to be here [...] it's fantastic fun to be here in the Bay of Islands."<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112153/image/large-1428ad05fb7eebad2479c020d8cfac99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112153">As well as securing her second prize, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adele54.64m (179'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2005">Adele&nbsp;</a>also saw success in the Cup's traditional skiff regatta, which took place after the second day of racing, in which the superyacht crews rowed in pursuit of the 20-litre barrel of Mount Gay Rum prize, which was won by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1842" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adele54.64m (179'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2005">Adele's</a> Team A. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/112176/image/large-bd18e424b21a4a21a1415d82a7e8bece.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112176">The 2021 edition of the New Zealand Millennium Cup regatta will take place between 15-18th February. Thanks to the flock of superyachts expected to head to New Zealand for the America's Cup, next year's regatta is expected to be a bumper edition, with over 40 entries anticipated<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112156/image/large-bc389e1d06518a7205bc0b382ceb8e8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112156">

34m sailing yacht Kawil winner of 2020 New Zealand Millennium Cup  

New entrant Kawil, a 34-metre Derecktor superyacht, has won the 2020 New Zealand Millennium Cup. Find out more about the nail-biting result on SYT.

34m sailing yacht Kawil wins 2020 New Zealand Millennium Cup

After three days of tight racing action out on the water in the picturesque setting of the Bay of Islands, the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta has come to an end. The final day saw close-quarter racing between the fleet but when final scored came in, it was Tawera who came out on top to take home the Cup. Janice of Wyoming hung on to her second place position and the Southern Wind Farfalla, with her newly fitted bowsprit, managing to take bronze. Here is a look at some of the scenes over the last two days of racing.

Aerial photos by <a href="http://www.breedmedia.com/" target="_blank">Breed Media</a>

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164201/image/large-4113294ae52da5da7869b65f7c9117b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164201">

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<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164211/image/large-c8577495fa1acaa6bf2714904d5f88ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164211">

NZ Millennium Cup 2017 draws to a close

Kicking off on 26th January, the New Zealand Millennium Cup is currently underway in the Bay of Islands. Day one saw race officials select a short course for the eight competitors due to wind conditions, with the 39.75 metre Janice of Wyoming taking line honours.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158125/image/large-f0a86a5881994db3bccece762b27dfc2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158125">The Classen built Shamoun was first over the line at 11.30, with an impressive last minute leap aboard by a crew member from a tender flying alongside. The 33 metre was followed shortly by the 28 metre Tawera, before the three yachts in the Pacific Division - Antaeus, Allegro and Steinlager - and then fellow Claasen-build Kealoha pursued.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158126/image/large-faafa4c7ae96ae88fabb5df238211a57.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158126">At 12.05, Janice of Wyoming stormed for the line, bearing down on the committee boat with an aggressive bent. Yachting Developments’ built Silvertip followed at 12.20, and the race was underway.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158127/image/large-a0f954f23588445c7e836297eeab6f8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158127">Steinlager 2 reportedly made winning the Pacific Division look easy as she crossed first, with her fleet of Allegro and Antaeus working their way up the Bay. Kealoha held her lead in the Millennium Cup division as they turned down the Bay, but Janice of Wyoming had sailed a powerful race and, on the stretch for home, she crossed the line a triumphant first.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158128/image/large-ca3222bfabcfabb6d6e7a8c82c9283b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158128">Kealoha held her lead to take second place, with Silvertip close behind. Tawera then crossed the line, with Shamoun charging for the line to bring the day’s racing to a close.With racing continuing today, the New Zealand Millennium Cup will draw to a close on 29th January.By Gemma Fottles, photos by Jeff Brown

The 2016 New Zealand Millennium Cup underway

The eighth edition of the New Zealand Millennium Cup (NZMC) will kick off in five days time for three days of racing off the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. A total of eight vessels will participate in the challenging race, including four new entries: the 27.5m Claasen Shipyards sloop Kealoha, the 28 metre Alloy Yachts Tawera (ex. Catalyst), the 33 metre Alloy Yachts Shamoun and the Azzura Yachts built Allegro, which also competed in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race at the beginning of the year.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157997/image/large-ad40b6be6891fd398fcb84cc30b5672c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157997">The other yachts in the lineup include the 33.8 metre Silvertip, built by Yachting Development in 2002. Silvertip is no stranger to the NZMC, and has previously taken the winning title both in 2009 and 2012.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157998/image/large-d9ed2ceeab4696e0b37cc35966b4b04f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157998">New Zealand local Steinlager 2 - the only yacht to have won all six legs of the Whitbread Round the World race - is ready to race after an extensive 2014 refit, whilst the 40 metre Alloy Yachts sloop Janice of Wyoming is back again having competed in the last four NZMC regattas. The final yacht in the lineup is Antaeus, who has also competed in previous editions of the Cup.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157999/image/large-ce31953d7fefd2ac900521fbeaccc3c1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157999">Organisers look forward to the 2016 edition of the Cup, stating: “The New Zealand Millennium Cup is organised by the NZ Marine Export Group and a group of dedicated New Zealand superyacht figures. With three days of high quality racing, exceptional hospitality and stunning views in one of the most picturesque cruising destinations in the world, this event is truly unique and a must-see.”The New Zealand Millennium Cup will begin on 26th January and draw to a close on 29th January.By Gemma Fottles, photos by Jeff Brown

New Zealand Millennium Cup kicks off next week

The New Zealand Millennium Cup came to an end on January 23rd after three days of racing, with the 34.2 metre Sassafras taking line honours despite the 50 metre Silencio celebrating victories on both previous days.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152496/image/large-b35836f6ba17e8cb740ac4f7f66d1355.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152496">With Silencio in first, competition was strong on the concluding day of the Cup, with the 39.7 metre Janice of Wyoming, the 37 metre Bliss and the 33.8 metre Silvertip all tied in second place. In the sub-30m Pacific Cup Division, with one win apiece, it was to be a case of the winner takes it all between Antaeus and Steinlager 2.The course set for the day was the longest of the event, totalling 30nm. Once again Silencio was first to cross the line at 11:30, but with a much shorter lead was quickly followed by Antaeus at 11:48, Sassafras at 11:49 and Janice of Wyoming at 12:07. Soon after Steinlager 2 crossed at 12:11, Bliss at 12:12 and Silvertip at 12:19.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152497/image/large-d44ee3632a22d4e698e695604d60bf9a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152497">The wind had been steadily building and all yachts moved fast on the run towards the first mark. With much closer start times the racing grounds soon saw various battles for leads emerging. Around Motuterakihi Island buoy the fleet began the beat for the next mark at Red Head buoy with the formation beginning to incrementally uncoil.By Mark 3, Nine Pin Island, Sassafras had claimed a lead on Silencio, moving into first place. Over the next few marks in the middle of the fleet Bliss was pushing Janice of Wyoming, with both yachts overtaking Silencio on the second rounding of Nine Pin Island, before Bliss also charged ahead of Janice to move into second place.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152498/image/large-b1c6962d27b2b6947ef74239baae882d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152498">Bliss crossed the line just 31 seconds behind Sassafras. Two minutes later, third across the line was Janice of Wyoming, who was followed two minutes later by Silvertip. Steinlager 2 was fifth on the line, to win the Pacific Cup, followed by Antaeus and finally Silencio, which had lost ground after struggling to unfurl their spinnaker at an earlier mark.The prizegiving ceremony was held in conjunction with the Bay of Islands Sailing Week prizegiving. The first presentation of the night was a team spirit award, recognising a special contribution and long-term commitment to the NZ Millennium Cup. The award was presented to the owners of Silvertip and Janice of Wyoming, who have provided such support to both the event and the New Zealand marine industry over the years.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152499/image/large-17d0b8424bd9ac5722af0ed6be1e948b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152499">Concluding the ceremony were the results, with the Pacific Cup division announced first. Steinlager 2 were the winners of the Pacific Cup division, followed by Antaeus in second place. For the Millennium Cup, fifth place went to Sassafras, winners of line honours on day three, followed by Silvertip in fourth place. Third went to Janice of Wyoming, with Bliss in second place and first place awarded to Silencio.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152500/image/large-6d276db7ee90d6e0ff3a07bebd4eff71.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152500">By Gemma Fottles

Silencio wins NZ Millennium Cup 2015

Officially beginning on the 20th January with a skipper’s briefing, the New Zealand Millennium Cup was held in a brand new location this year, the Bay of Islands. Held in conjunction with the Bay of Islands Sailing Week, the seven participants of the Millennium Cup – Janice of Wyoming, Silvertip, Bliss, Sassafras, Silencio, Antaeus and Steinlager 2 – joined nearly ninety other yachts on the water for the three days of racing.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152423/image/large-159d080bc691a9eef68ab587ef3643c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152423">The event was officially launched at the formal regatta Welcome Function. Held in Russell at the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s oldest pub, the event saw owners, skippers, crew, media and industry members receive a traditional Maori welcome and blessing on the event.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152424/image/large-b3ba84d6dfc7e23bcdf168f923b8d33f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152424">The first day of racing was the Dubois Race Day, and commenced at 11:30 on 21st January. In their first time challenging for the Cup, the 50 metre Silencio was first off the mark at 11:30, crossing the line and quickly unfurling their distinctive gennaker. Next across the line was Antaeus at 11:43 followed by fellow Pacific Division competitor, the iconic Steinlager 2 at 12:04. With the first three yachts underway, the remaining four circled as they counted down to their start times. Sassafras was across the line at 12:17, quickly followed by Janice of Wyoming at 12:19, Bliss at 12:26 and finally Silvertip at 12:31.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152425/image/large-073df53b64f9fab1790f6457407a7204.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152425">With fair breezes, the yachts made good progress and by the time the yachts had reached the first mark, the Motuterakihi Island Buoy, Silvertip and Bliss had both overtaken Janice of Wyoming and Sassafras, with Silvertip then moving ahead of Bliss before turning for the second mark, Ninepin Island.This left Silencio and Antaeus taking the lead, followed in third place by Steinlager. After rounding Ninepin Island, Antaeus then took the lead towards the finish, taking line honours and first place in the Pacific Division. But it was Silencio who crossed the line to take victory in the first day of racing, gaining them an all-important first place on the scoreboard for the Millennium Cup. Thrilled with the result, the win was celebrated with champagne by the delighted owner and crew.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152426/image/large-0c35c5fd304759176276e985b8b6cc3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152426">With the first two yachts home, next to cross the line was Steinlager 2 to take third place on the line and second place in the Pacific Division. Fourth on the line, second place went to Silvertip which had made good gains, but with the shortened course had lost the legroom they needed to climb the rankings towards the finish. Close behind was Bliss, which claimed the final podium spot, with Janice of Wyoming taking fourth place and Sassafras in fifth.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152427/image/large-41f3868b46a394effbbc289ea8a75d7f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152427">Beginning today, day two is the Ocean Media Race Day which will see the yachts line up again at 11:30.By Gemma Fottles, photos by Jeff Brown

Silencio wins day one of the New Zealand Millennium Cup

Currently in the final stages of preparation, organisers of the New Zealand Millenium Cup has announced that a number of Dubois-designed yachts have joined the lineup for the race, including Janice of Wyoming, Silvertip and Bliss.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152330/image/large-d267b93eb8b6bc6c210c7c20c51c3a9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152330">Ed Dubois comments, “We are very excited to see that the Millennium Cup is being held once again in 2015. The new venue of the Bay of Islands, along with its well established regatta, is especially exciting for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in the world and ideally suited for yacht racing.“Secondly, it brings the large New Zealand-built yachts into an area and environment that particularly suits them; beautiful and away from the everyday rush and bustle of a city atmosphere and in an archipelago of islands that provides for stunningly scenic courses to be set.”In recognition of Dubois’ long association with the New Zealand industry in which as a design office, they have built 37 superyachts in New Zealand over the space of 30 years, the NZ Millennium Cup committee have named a day’s racing ‘Ed Dubois Race Day’.The regatta will be held from the 21st to 23rd January 2015 in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, and will once again be handicapped to ISYR by Jim Teeters, to ensure close-fought, fun racing. Organised by the NZ Marine Export Group, the regatta runs concurrently with New Zealand’s biggest domestic regatta; Bay of Islands Sailing Week.Entries to date include five-time circumnavigator, the 50 metre Perini Navi superyacht Silencio, as well as 34.2 metre Royal Huisman, Sassafras. In a separate Pacific Division, special guests Steinlager 2 and Antaeus will go head to head.By Eddie Kloosterman

More Dubois yachts join the New Zealand Millenium Cup 

The 2015 New Zealand Millennium Cup has announced that the 2015 edition of the event will include a specially dedicated Dubois race day.<img alt="" src="/system/legacy/articles/Image/Editorial/Yacht-Regattas/2014-08-Dubois-Cup/DuboisCup-01.jpg" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: none; opacity: 0.9; width: 550px; height: 366px; background: none;">The announcement comes after the confirmation of the return of three Dubois entrants, the 39.7 metre Janice of Wyoming, the 36 metre Bliss and reigning champion, the 33 metre Silvertip. Other yachts competing this year include Silencio, Sassafras, Steinlager II and Antaeus.New Zealand Marine’s CEO, Peter Busfield, comments, “In recognition of the significant number of Dubois-designed superyachts built by New Zealand yards and Ed Dubois’ ongoing stance of support towards the New Zealand industry, the NZMarine Export Group have named one of the 2015 Millenium Cup race days, the ‘Dubois race day.’ Race organisers are delighted Ed will be participating in the 2015 Millenium Cup, sailed for the first time in the picturesque waters of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands.”By Eddie Kloosterman

New Zealand Millenium Cup to feature a Dubois race

Celebrating its 15th year since the inaugural Cup in 2000, the New Zealand Millenium Cup will run from the 21st to 23rd January 2015 in the country’s Bay of Islands. Organised by the NZ Marine Export Group, the regatta will once again be handicapped to ISYR by Jim Teeters and will run concurrently with New Zealand’s biggest domestic regatta, Bay of Islands Sailing Week<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151297/image/large-9cf6b30733bc2e04cf431cfd85e21e42.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151297">Returning to the race are Janice of Wyoming, Bliss and Silvertip. Entries to date also include five-time circumnavigator, the 50 metre Perini Navi vessel, Silencio, which took third in class at February’s St Barth’s Bucket, and won the 2013 Perini Navi Cup.In addition will be the 34.2 metre Royal Huisman, Sassafras, with new EC6 carbon rigging by event sponsor Southern Spars. The sloop was designed by Fontaine-Hood for comfort over long distances as well as power under sail.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151298/image/large-74f19c0d1cca4c06de52759d41317508.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151298">New Zealand yard Alloy Yachts have returned as a Gold sponsor for the event for another consecutive year. They comment, "For Alloy Yachts, the Millennium Cup gives us the chance to meet with existing and potential clients on home soil. The Cup always has a very relaxed, Kiwi vibe, with polished hospitality and we enjoy showing the global visitors where we come from and how we do things. It's always a thrill to see our yachts out on the course, too!”Also sponsoring the event this year is OCEAN Independence. Julia Simpson, PR and Events Managers, says, “The Millennium Cup presents an opportunity for the OCEAN Independence Auckland team to support a local New Zealand event and to meet with the passionate supersail yachting community, naturally building awareness of our services and expertise in New Zealand and beyond,” says Julia Simpson, OCEAN Independence PR and events manager.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151299/image/large-2c6fb7525eb3215662893778a852f105.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151299">New Zealand’s Millenium Cup recently opened applications for sponsorship, and have reportedly received a positive response thus far. The regatta is well-supported by local and international suppliers with Mount Gay Rum, Allan Scott Wines, On Fire Design and Coast New Zealand all working to ensure guests receive a fantastic regatta experience.By Gemma Fottles

The New Zealand Millenium Cup 2015

Organisers host a stellar evening of cocktails, dancing and the all-important prize giving on the final day of the regatta. Auckland’s Viaduct Event Centre played host to the NZ Millennium Cup’s penultimate evening on Sunday. Owners, crew, sponsors and guests gathered to celebrate an incredible three days of racing, and applaud the winner, as the sun went down on a hot Auckland day. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142972/image/large-42a17abe90012262169ba4f4719dcc5a.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142972">Touch of Spice, luxury lifestyle company ensued all the ingredients were in place to make the evening a success. Plying guests with superb Mount Gay Millennium Mai Tais, Stoke Beer, Allan Scott wines and outstanding food. As the guests gathered, talking waterbombs, photo finishes and cruising routes around the region, sports broadcaster Peter Montgomery was preparing the prizes. Silvertip placed second overall, and also received the prize for sportsmanship, in recognition of her approach to, and goodwill during the racing. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142973/image/large-4598174a218ce0126686acce7cb903a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142932">A special prize went to the owner/skipper of Sea Toy, for her fun approach to the regatta. Her owner has been appointed ambassador-at-large for yachts in the 60-80ft division for the 2014 event. From enthusiastically encouraging other owners to enter, to dropping a line and catching enough for a mid-race lunch on the aft-deck, Sea Toy’s owner and guests were a great example of making the most of a beautiful three days on the water. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142974/image/large-9103284de782455f0938bef51f555075.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142974">A special prize was also in store for Janice of Wyoming. Awarded the accolade of best exit from the Viaduct Harbour, Janice had earned her stripes with a slingshotted waterbomb volley at rival yachts, as well as sponsors and bystanders. MC, Montgomery, also made sure to take the time to thank Janice’s owners for their constant support and advocacy of the New Zealand superyacht industry. And then it was time for the results. Third place went to the yacht who’d been drawing admiring glances throughout the competition, Ohana, having battled with Silvertip for the duration of the regatta. Second place went to her competitor and Sunday’s winner, Silvertip, earning her place with her ability to fight all the way to the line. But the winner of the NZ Millennium Cup 2013, was Zefiro - storming away with the trophy after winning two of the three races. The popular owner and crew were roundly applauded and then the business of the evening was over and it was time to get down to the serious task of celebrating a great regatta and plotting next year’s tactics. With Touch of Spice steering the festivities guests were in for a treat. Topping off a great three days on the water, the gala dinner was the icing on the cake. And (a few long sleep ins aside) it’s safe to say the NZ Millennium Cup 2014 will be one that’s already chalked into the regatta calendar for any owner with a fierce competitive spirit and sense of adventure.NZ Millennium Cup +64 224 444 011 <a href="mailto:amy@MillenniumCup.com">amy@MillenniumCup.com</a> <a href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

It’s a gala affair as the NZ Millennium Cup wraps up

Grey Auckland skies were looming over the Hauraki Gulf as the NZ Millennium Cup’s warriors lined up under the Harbour bridge to fight for line honours in the second day of racing. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142925/image/large-ee1f72f002c56cc2b059de692ead5308.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142925">Sea Toy was first to head for open seas, with yesterday’s winner Zefiro powering away after to the cheers of the chase boats. Quickly unfurling her pink gennaker, Zefiro provided a hot point on the horizon to chase down for the yachts yet to come. Lady racer, Janice of Wyoming, followed after, flicking the Hauraki Gulf from her bow, her start heralding a good omen for the day’s racing with sails filling and the skies clearing above her. Silvertip’s gennaker filled just as she prowled over the line, tearing up the harbour in hot pursuit. And then, as the committee boat’s horn sounded, Ohana let fly, yellow gennaker curled at the ready. The race was on; and every yacht was in it to win. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142926/image/large-fb2c725c9f0a785a07139373f7a8971b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142926">Approaching the Gulf Harbour buoy, Silvertip was looking strong, on the prowl after Janice of Wyoming, who had gained around a minute on Zefiro as Janice pulled in her iconic bronco gennaker, bucking in the wind. Rounding the Haystack, Ohana had decreased the gap to around three minutes. And then it was the dash up the harbour, all yachts fighting it out for supremacy. Silvertip, Ohana and Sea Toy were within hail of each other as they flew through the gap between volcano, Rangitoto, and Auckland’s North Shore. With a flick of her tail, Sea Toy was through the gap between the two larger yachts. Ohana proved all powerful grace though, as she steamed back up and past Sea Toy, Silvertip tacking away towards the suburbs, giving local boaties an up-close thrill. Zefiro was tearing for home, sweeping down the harbour with a grace that belied her power, a small admiring fleet of locals in her wake. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142927/image/large-61fc69349b73af1e1e72f39c1af37b3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142927">Then it was between Silvertip and Ohana once more as they tacked again and bore down on each other, beating a path up the harbour towards home. Silvertip looked to be holding her lead as they tacked and tacked again, each fighting for every metre’s supremacy. Zefiro shot over the line, at 16.00.28pm to the cheers of the committee boat, maintaining the effortless and graceful impression she’d kept up over the race right to the end, despite her speed. Ohana and Silvertip were neck and neck as the line approached; too close for chase boat or crew to pick the winner. Until with a surge of power, Ohana found a higher gear and flew over the line metres in front of Silvertip, each crew applauding the other. The final result; Ohana 16.07.59. Silvertip 16.08.17, Janice of Wyoming 16.20.41 and Sea Toy 16.36.00, but ultimate winner of the day was the nimble, steady Zefiro. With the sun lowering over the city the owners and crew are now sitting back with a Mount Gay Rum, watching the sun sink from their prime position on pontoons kitted out with Coast outdoor furniture, complete with DJ, and getting down to the serious business of celebrating a beautiful day’s racing. And plotting how best to get ahead of smooth, implacable Zefiro, whose finesse has made her a true champion and yacht to watch. NZ Millennium Cup +64 224 444 011 <a href="mailto:amy@MillenniumCup.com">amy@MillenniumCup.com</a> <a href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Close finish on second day of NZ Millennium Cup

It was another photo finish on the Hauraki Gulf as the last day’s racing proved once again the fierce competitive spirit of the event. Spectators and crew alike knew the racing would be ferocious when Janice of Wyoming set the tone; sliding out of the harbour slingshotting a hail of waterbombs at her competitors. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142931/image/large-dbbd28efccfc7782a79f7717c70dcefe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142931">Less forecasted wind meant a shorter course to make sure the exciting racing standard was maintained, and a quick handicapping adjustment saw Janice of Wyoming whipping up the harbour first. Cowboy hats at a jaunty angle, the renegades were off and speeding for the turn around North Head, chased by Sea Toy. Off on her shorter course, Sea Toy’s tactic of not raising the gennaker until further into the course proved fatal as Zefiro charged past within the inner harbour stretch. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142932/image/large-92bb6d62be5b05edbc5d38c949f35af4.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142932">And then Zefiro was flitting off after Janice of Wyoming; Silvertip and Ohana in hot pursuit, as the fleet poured out of the harbour mouth to tear down the channel between Rangitoto Island and Auckland’s North Shore. Approaching the Gulf Harbour buoy, where the yachts would turn about and head for home, Janice was looking comfortably in control of the situation. Silvertip and Ohana were out to starboard and Zefiro, though closest to the leader, still had some catching up to do. She was out and around the mark, and heading off toward the suburbs to starboard as Zefiro rounded, hounded by Silvertip . But a tactical tack saw her suddenly within range of the two pursuants, and catching the scent, Zefiro and Silvertip were off and chasing. The three beat up the harbour, crossing and recrossing, as Ohana flew up to port-side. Zefiro and Silvertip were moving from strength to strength. Smaller Zefiro maintaining the upperhand, just, as Silvertip circled. Despite a valiant battle, Janice of Wyoming was starting to slip away, while big, powerful Ohana gambled on taking a different route close in to the dormant volcanic island. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142933/image/large-6fc56412c9fa7c31eb3cdf79a2bf7470.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142933">But it was Silvertip and Zefiro as they flew back into the inner harbour. Zefiro looked to be holding on, and a final tack into the mouth of the harbour, facing Auckland city, saw her square up strongly for the run home and surge ahead. The two crews were metres from each other. Line looming ahead, they were neck and neck, fighting for supremacy. And then Ohana , appearing around the headland, close to Devonport beach and dashing for the line on the inside of the leaders. But it was Zefiro and Silvertip flying close into Auckland’s port; close enough for cruise ship passengers to run to the rail for a bird’s eye view of the battle. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142934/image/large-3b5afcbeda7899f2610df17a9e413412.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142934">With a short dash to go, it was too tight to call. Until the turn, Silvertip edging her bow toward the line and slowly, inescapably widening a little breathing space to edge over the winning mark metres in front of Zefiro and to the cheers of both crew. The last race might be over, but the celebrations and prizegiving are still to come. The NZ Millennium Cup has shown once again it’s a regatta that draws yachts who race with class, sportsmanship and fierce grace. NZ Millennium Cup +64 224 444 011 <a href="mailto:amy@MillenniumCup.com">amy@MillenniumCup.com</a> <a href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Nail-biting finish on the last day’s racing

The NZ Millennium Cup has its first day’s winner. Zefiro, new challenger to the race, was first to cross the finish line in the race, with the Auckland harbour bridge looming above. Her win followed a fiercely-contested day’s racing which included an upclose view of Emirates Team New Zealand practicing in the Hauraki Gulf and good winds which kept the fleet powering along. <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142887/image/large-8e039fff1d96d5c49056326a58ba4db3.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142887"> <img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142888/image/large-3a202ea78755bc3606d0eea3352d10f7.jpg" alt="" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142888">The NZ Millennium Cup’s international guests were welcomed to a rainy Auckland by prayer, song and haka, challenging the visitors to New Zealand to honour the Hauraki Gulf they would race on, and receiving the warrior’s challenge as a mark of respect in return. As the voices of local school group Mangere Kuri rose over rain-speckled water, the skies above the Hauraki began to clear and with a blessing of the fleet, and a prayer to Tangaroa, god of the seas, it was time to cast lines and let the racing begin. Racing to the International Superyacht Rule, a few points were emphasized at the briefing. Racing would take place on a longer path, of several options, and would see yachts speed up past Auckland’s northern suburbs to Gulf Harbour, circle Rakino Island and dash back toward the city. For every minute a yacht was forward of the start line, there’d be a ten minute penalty and distance between yachts was to be kept to 40metres. S/Y Sea Toy was first off the line, followed by Southern Wind-built Zefiro. Janice of Wyoming was next to fly past the starter marker, with two time winner Silvertip following her and newly launched Ohana charging up the harbour in pursuit. And pursue she did. Ohana cut an imposing sight as she powered down the course, her beautiful lines showing what a perfectly-balanced yacht she is, as her sails filled and she tore past Auckland City. She was all sleek grace, while in pursuit of Silvertip, and around the Gulf Harbour mark managed to best her, setting the scene for more battles of tactics in races to come.Silvertip’s beautiful lines sliced through the water, showing why she’s won the regatta twice, as she competed fiercely for top spot, drawing plenty of attention from Auckland’s boaties as she showed her nimbleness and grace around the gulf’s islands. Janice of Wyoming raced strongly throughout the day and, after the final turn for home, really flew, powering down the harbour toward the line with the effortless finesse she’d maintained all day. Sea Toy fought a valiant race, coming back into harbour strongly, after a great display of racing. All yachts crossed the line in close proximity to each other, for which the race committee should be congratulated; the International Superyacht Rule proving its worth once again. But it was Zefiro who was the star of the day, slipping over the line comfortably with all the grace she’d displayed throughout the race. Marking herself as one to watch for the remainder of the regatta, Zefiro’s crew, sportsmanship and approach to the spirit of the regatta is sure to cement her as a favourite.NZ Millennium Cup +64 224 444 011 <a href="mailto:amy@MillenniumCup.com">amy@MillenniumCup.com</a> <a href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

The NZ Millennium Cup kicks off

One billion dollars. That’s what the New Zealand industry has meant to him, says Ed Dubois of Dubois Yachts. “We have built over 40 yachts in New Zealand, representing over $NZ 1 billion-worth of construction. The country is therefore a central part of our background as yacht designers and we’re delighted to be involved in the NZ Millennium Cup,” says Dubois. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142310/image/large-45417999ac780c513c78286c43653d43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142310">The much-lauded designer will be on hand in Auckland come February when <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3355">Ohana</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842">Silvertip</a> and <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640">Janice of Wyoming</a> take to the waters of the Hauraki Gulf to compete in the regatta - all yachts that bear the mark of his skill. Not only is Dubois excited to see the yachts on the course though, he’s looking forward to spending time with New Zealand’s industry ﬁgures. The New Zealand yachting industry has evolved like no other over the last 25 years. “When we ﬁrst had one of our designs built by Alloy Yachts, they were just 30 people. They now represent one of the leading yacht builders in the world and their example is being followed by Fitzroy Yachts, Yachting Developments and the excellent supply companies such as Southern Spars and North Sails – with many others supporting this amazing industry.” The Cup, which will run to the International Superyacht Rule of handicapping yachts to ensure every entrant has a shot at the podium, also draws praise from Dubois. “The New Zealand Millennium Cup stands out for being particularly well run and having a very friendly atmosphere. Sailing in the Hauraki Gulf, particularly in February, is always a delightful experience. Sailing in New Zealand is one of the most natural pastimes for the host country nationals one can think of in the world. To be part of the ‘scene’ and know that New Zealand has been so successful both with racing yachts (America’s Cup, Volvo Race and in the past, the Whitbread Race) and also is now at the very forefront of yacht building, is a wonderful thing to be part of.” <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142311/image/large-60e8f715993064febf539416628cdf3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142311">But the real question - who does he think will sail away victorious? “Depending on the weather, either Ohana or Silvertip will probably take line honours. Ohana is long (just on 50 metres) and if there’s a good breeze, her size will win through. If it is lighter weather, then Silvertip’s composite construction and efﬁcient rig with excellent sails will probably win the day.” <img alt="title=" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142312/image/large-833adab41da9fab7bca7dd2d23366236.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142312">Two new entrants have just announced they’ll be joining the line up. Local yacht S/Y Sea Toy is stepping up to the plate, as is S/Y <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2630">Zeﬁro</a>; built by Southern Wind Shipyard and launched in Cape Town in 2009. The naval architecture is the work of Farr Yacht Design, with an interior by Nauta Yachts, and the 100ft yacht’s owner and crew are looking forward to challenging two time champion, S/Y Silvertip. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/142313/image/large-a7ee33e712c63ff15bba02210c96cc8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/142313">This is the ﬁrst NZ Millennium Cup for Zeﬁro as it will be for brand-new and muchanticipated Ohana, while Janice of Wyoming is coming back for more. International sponsors are showing their support of the event with Gurit, Lufthansa Private Jet, Mulcahy Engineering, Whiting Power Systems and Robinson joining Dubois as recent comers. Sturge Taylor and Associates Ltd. and Insurance Brokers International have taken on the crucial and not altogether thankless role of bar sponsors of the opening cocktail party. Yachting Developments, builder of 2012 and 2009 winner, Silvertip, is platinum sponsor of the event. Gold sponsors are Fitzroy Yachts, Waterfront Auckland, Alloy Yachts, and luxury lifestyle company, Touch of Spice. Onboard to show their support as silver sponsors are Doyle Sails and Smuggler Marine. Bronze sponsor is Gurit Asia Paciﬁc with ofﬁcial apparel partnership in the hands of Events Clothing. Ensuring the regatta maintains its legendary standards of hospitality, Mt Gay Rum has once again come to the party as hospitality partners along with Stoke beer, while The Superyacht Group and Ocean Media have thrown their weight behind the NZ Millennium Cup as ofﬁcial media partners.Dubois Naval Architects +44 (0)1590 626666 <a href="mailto:design@duboisyachts.com?subject=100%20Metre%20supersloop%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">design@duboisyachts.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.duboisyachts.com/">www.duboisyachts.com</a> Millennium Cup <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com/">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Ed Dubois shares his views on the NZ Millennium Cup

After three days of racing, 33.8 metre Silvertip, built by Yachting Developments, has been declared the winner of the NZ Millennium Cup 2012. Also competing for the title were 32 metre Eclipse, 48.5 metre Georgia, 44 metre Imagine B and 39.6 metre Janice of Wyoming, all built by Alloy Yachts. <iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/f5bZmQw-bSs" frameborder="0" width="560" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Providing a real spectacle for viewers onshore the battle for the Cup took place over three days of racing in the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf. Despite an ominous weather forecast the New Zealand weather came through and delivered sunshine for the entire event. Day One saw Georgia take home line honours, and Day Two Silvertip took first place in both races. By the end of the second day, with three races complete, it was clear that short of a major upset on Day Three the regatta belonged to Silvertip, who lead with just four points out of a possible 15. With Silvertip in the lead, the point differences between Georgia, Imagine, Janice of Wyoming and Eclipse were small, and Day Three was highly anticipated as a real decider race in the fight for the podium places. Unfortunately, calm conditions on the final day led to the abandonment of the final race mid way through which meant that the results as of the end of Day Two stood, and Georgia was awarded second place overall, followed by Imagine, Janice of Wyoming and then Eclipse. The end of the regatta was celebrated with a Gala Dinner and Prize Giving at the Cloud on Auckland's waterfront. Millennium Cup Amy Welch +64 21 02225143 <a href="mailto:amy@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">amy@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com/">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Video of the NZ Millennium Cup 2012

Renowned superyacht builder and refit specialist, Yachting Developments, has committed to a 3-year partnership with the NZ Millennium Cup as a Platinum Sponsor. The major sponsorship will begin with the 2012 NZ Millennium Cup, which will be held on the sparkling waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf on February 16-18. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/137664/image/large-eaec8e2356feda32b29d3ba0149346de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/126644">Yachting Developments, based in the Auckland suburb of Hobsonville, employs a dedicated staff of 140. They specialise in custom-built superyachts and refits, with expertise in composite, metal and timber yachts. The company has recently completed an extensive and highly-acclaimed 18-month refit of the iconic J Class <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621">Endeavour</a> and also built the 33.8-metre Silvertip, the current NZ Millennium Cup reigning champion. <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/842">Silvertip</a>, the first yacht in the world to win both the Superyacht Society’s Best Sailing Yacht and Showboat’s Best Sailing Yacht awards recently confirmed her entry into the 2012 NZ Millennium Cup. Yachting Developments’ managing director, Ian Cook says "this is an exciting time for the company and the perfect opportunity to announce the company’s participation in the 2012, 2013 and 2014 NZ Millennium Cups". Yachting Developments joins Gold Sponsors; Alloy Yachts, Integrated Marine Group and Touch of Spice; Silver Sponsors: Dubois Yachts, Events Clothing and Doyle Sails and Media Partners The Superyacht Group and Ocean Media. The NZ Millennium Cup is expected to attract a superb fleet of superyachts, all at least 30 metres long. Other confirmed entries include the 48.5-metre <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/624">Georgia</a>, the 44-metre S/Y <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2532">Imagine D</a>, the 39.6-metre <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1640">Janice of Wyoming</a> and the 31-metre <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3446">Pacific Eagle</a>. Yachting Developments +64 (0)9 417 0060 <a href="mailto:info@yachtingdevelopments.co.nz?subject=Yachting%20Developments%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">info@yachtingdevelopments.co.nz</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.yachtingdevelopments.co.nz/">www.yachtingdevelopments.co.nz</a> Millennium Cup Amy Welch +64 21 02225143 <a href="mailto:amy@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">amy@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Yachting Developments become Platinum Sponsor of 2012 NZ Millennium Cup

As the 40m superyacht Janice of Wyoming recently moved down the slipway following service, paint work and maintenance it heralded the final stage of completing the 600 tonne slipway upgrade at Orams Marine Services. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/133398/image/large-5cdddb43300eb119134bb89b0e387d20.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/133398">Managing director Craig Park says the rebuilt slipway will enable the yard to more efficiently haul out the larger superyachts that have been built over recent years. “The upgrade will increase the tonnes per metre ratio,” Park explains. “With improved design and technology superyachts are being built longer and heavier, although the foot of the keel hasn’t increased in size, normally being around seven metres. On the slipway the keel takes 100% of the vessel weight and our new facility will more evenly spread the load.” He added although the Yard was busy over the winter period it was the best time for the work to be completed and bookings are steady with projections indicating a busy period ahead further enhanced with owners heading to New Zealand for the September 2011 Rugby World Cup. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/133399/image/large-ee42f211ea913bb24220734977b6a589.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/133399">Following the launch of Janice of Wyoming the 53m sloop Erica XII was moved up the slipway for service and maintenance. Park also advised that running parallel with the slipway project is completion of a 90m work berth which will further broaden the range of vessels that can be handled in the Yard. The first superyacht to use this facility will be one of the world's largest sailing yachts the 88 m Athena arriving in January for a six month period undergoing extensive service and maintenance including a complete repaint of topsides, superstructure and spars. He added, “With Auckland rapidly gaining a reputation as the superyacht hub for the South Pacific the demand for additional Service and Refit infrastructure will steadily increase and it is for this reason that the industry is preparing to meet the market.” Orams Marine Services Craig Park + 64 27 4723616 <a href="mailto:craig@oramsmarine.co.nz?subject=Orams%20Marine%20Services%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">craig@oramsmarine.co.nz</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.oramsmarineservices.co.nz">www.oramsmarineservices.co.nz</a>

Superyacht refit facility upgrade at Auckland Yard

The New Zealand-built sailing yacht Silvertip has won the very competitively-sailed Millennium Cup Pacific Series superyacht regatta in Auckland. A small, but spirited fleet sailed four races in three days on three very different courses in Auckland Harbour. Using an IRC handicap system, Silvertip started near or at the rear of the fleet with the smaller yachts starting nearly half an hour in front of her in all four races. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/126663/image/large-56503ab3c5f56e5fc87de00548cdafe4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/126663">The final two races were sailed around a 12-nautical mile triangular course off Auckland's East Coast Bays. In Fitzroy Yachts race three, Silvertip, an Ed Dubois-designed 33.8 metre sloop, proved well suited to the light conditions - 7-8 knots - to easily pass SY Janice of Wyoming, then SY Thalia and SY Naos on a shortened course to be saluted by the committee boat's gun on the finish line. The sole division two entry SY Ragtime was again the quickest craft to complete the short course. Built in New Zealand in 1964, the 19.8 metre Ragtime (formerly Infidel) has shown her considerable pace in a range of conditions throughout the regatta. The afternoon's Southern Spars race four required two circuits of the triangular course and in 14-15 knots of breeze, the smallest yacht in the fleet, the 32-metre cutter rigged SY Naos started first and finished first much to the delight of all onboard. Janice of Wyoming crossed the line in second place to consolidate second place overall in the regatta while Silvertip finished third with Thalia fourth and Ragtime fifth. Millennium Cup organising committee member Owen Rutter has been part of the crew onboard Silvertip for all four races. "The lighter conditions really favoured Silvertip in the morning race, but as the breeze picked up Janice of Wyoming had the advantage over us. Our racing was very close; at times just metres apart," says Rutter. "All the competitors have thoroughly enjoyed the racing and, as we've seen with the IRC handicap system ably managed for us by Hal Wagstaff of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, different conditions suit different boats and therefore it's great to see Naos and Janice of Wyoming sail so well in this final race of the regatta." Points were awarded on a reverse basis, with one point for a win, two points for second and so on. Silvertip finished on six points, Janice of Wyoming on eight, Naos on 12 and Thalia on 14, making Silvertip the Millennium Cup winner for 2009. Mark Wightman, chairman of NZ Marine which developed and organises the Millennium Cup superyacht regatta, sums up the event as "...fantastic! We've had excellent, competitive sailing, a very spirited golf game at Gulf Harbour and some fantastic functions each evening." "This encompasses everything a Millennium Cup regatta should be - an extremely enjoyable way to celebrate the New Zealand marine industry and our involvement in the international yachting fraternity. We thank all our competitors, all our guests to celebrated the regatta with us at our events and all our sponsors for helping us make the 2009 Millennium Cup Pacific Series a truly great regatta," says Wightman. "This Millennium Cup Pacific Series has offered superyacht owners the last chance in what could be a long time to compete for the Millennium Cup in Auckland. Our event is intrinsically linked to the America's Cup and Louis Vuitton Cup, so all you can say with certainty is that the next Millennium Cup will be sailed overseas and we look forward to welcoming everyone to our next event whenever it may be." The 2009 Millennium Cup Pacific Series has been made possible with the support of Boat International Media, Alloy Yachts, Integrated Marine Group, Southern Spars, Fitzroy Yachts, Robinson Marine Interiors, Events Clothing, Viking Crew Management, Hall Spars, Electronic Navigation, Oceanbridge Shipping, Harken NZ, North Sails, IC Frith &amp; Associates, Maxwell Marine, Mulcahy Engineering, Yachting Developments, 26000 Vodka, Lufthansa Private Jet, Lexus, Antipodes Water, Arano Juice and Domo Collections. Millennium Cup +64 9 376 1300 <a href="mailto:pacificseries@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%202009%20%28SuperYachtTimes.com%29">pacificseries@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com/">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Silvertip wins the 2009 Millennium Cup Pacific Series

The superyachts contesting the New Zealand Millennium Cup Pacific Series in Auckland this week raced around an inner harbour course for their second of four races during the superyacht regatta. Winner of race one, 33.8 metre Sailing Yacht (SY) Silvertip made it two wins from two when she crossed the line first in Robinson Marine Interiors race two. Following the previous evening's captains' briefing, race officials and yacht captains also met again at 9:00am to review weather conditions and the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series race schedule to ensure that conditions were suitable for the superyachts - all 33 metres or more in length - to sail in the confined harbour situation. The original 11:30am start time was delayed 90 minutes to accommodate the arrival of three large commercial ships at the Ports of Auckland. Race officer Hal Wagstaff, of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, also amended the handicap system applied to the superyachts for their allocated starting time and order. Race one's start order was Naos, Thalia, Silvertip and Janice of Wyoming, with the division two entry of Ragtime five minutes after Janice of Wyoming. This order was revised to see Naos followed by Thalia, Zenji which raced for the first time today, Janice of Wyoming and Silvertip, then Ragtime. Millennium Cup organising committee member Owen Rutter is part of the crew onboard Silvertip. From his on-the-water perspective, Rutter comments that the revised start order and light winds meant it took some time for the faster yachts to catch the slower ones. "And that's as it's meant to be in these IRC handicap races - the aim is to have the yachts finish the course as close to each other as possible. Today, Silvertip won by just 15 seconds from Janice of Wyoming and when you're talking a 39.6 metre yacht and a 33 metre yacht, that's pretty close racing. "Interestingly both Silvertip and Janice of Wyoming were designed by Ed Dubois of Dubois Naval Architects in the United Kingdom. Both were also built in New Zealand - Silvertip by Yachting Developments in 2001 and Janice of Wyoming in 2005 by Alloy Yachts," adds Rutter. "In our Gulf Island race yesterday, Ed steered Silvertip for some of the race so that's great to have the yacht's designer able to race her in New Zealand waters during our Millennium Cup series." During the yachts' two circuits around the short inner harbour course, they started off Princes Wharf, sailed east towards Orakei and out towards Rangitoto for a short stretch, around a mark and back into the harbour to turn again near Princes Wharf. "In the light winds with rain throughout most of the race, slowly but surely Janice of Wyoming and Silvertip caught the others," says Rutter. "Behind us, the 19.8 metre Ragtime - another yacht built in New Zealand with some fantastic race heritage - proved to be the fastest boat around the course today. Having started five minutes behind Silvertip, Ragtime came through the fleet to finish third overall just three-and-a-half minutes behind us. That was great sailing from Chris Welsh and his crew on Ragtime. Naos and Thalia finished very close together and Zenji - the largest in the fleet - crossed the line last." The Millennium Cup also hosted a golf day for sponsors and non-sailing superyacht crews today. Six teams of four teed off at the scenic Gulf Harbour Country Club for the Integrated Marine Group golf challenge. Mark Wightman, chairman of NZ Marine which developed and organises the Millennium Cup superyacht regatta, was at the golf day and said a fantastic game was enjoyed by all. Wightman also flew out to Rakino Island to meet up with Millennium Cup guests who travelled to the island on MY Acheron. Also hosted by Millennium Cup sponsor Integrated Marine Group, media and guests enjoyed lunch at Hurakia Lodge, an exclusive luxury retreat recently completed on the Hauraki Gulf island. Points are awarded on a reverse basis, so Silvertip has now has two points, Janice of Wyoming four points, Thalia six and Naos eight. The yacht with the least number of points after the event's four races will win the New Zealand Millennium Cup for 2009. The final two races will be sailed on Wednesday 11 February and will comprise two circuits of a triangular course off Takapuna Beach. Officials will confirm the scheduled start time of 11:30am at this evening's captains' briefing.Millennium Cup +64 9 376 1300 <a href="mailto:pacificseries@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%202009%20%28SuperYachtTimes.com%29">pacificseries@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com/">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Silvertip leading race for 2009 NZ Millennium Cup after day two

The first race of the New Zealand Millennium Cup Pacific Series superyacht sailing regatta - sponsored by Alloy Yachts - was won by the 33.8 metre Sailing Yacht (SY) Silvertip. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/126644/image/large-c5cce132bfbc4256a07e1f265fa03c03.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/126644">With the five Millennium Cup entrants racing around a Gulf Island course, each superyacht was started at a specific time according to their IRC rating off Takapuna beach to sail a pursuit race that saw the yachts sail around Tiri Tiri Matangi Island and Rakino Island, then back to Takapuna. Although the breeze was very light until just before the 11:30am start, it quickly built as soon as the first starter, SY Naos, crossed the line, says Millennium Cup organising committee member Owen Rutter who was part of the crew on SY Silvertip. "The crew on Naos did a fantastic job to hold their lead over the faster boats until nearly the end of the reaching leg to Rakino," says Rutter. "They led for nearly half the race, but unfortunately blew their spinnaker just before rounding Rakino." On Silvertip, Rutter says they passed second starter SY Thalia just going into the Tiri Passage at the end of the first leg. "The yachts had to tack through the Tiri Passage which was quite tricky as yachts of 100ft (33m) in length don't tack too easily. Throughout the race we had around 15 to 16 knots of breeze with a maximum of 20 knots, which was fantastic."SY Janice of Wyoming made up a lot of time on Silvertip during the reach to Rakino and our division two entrant, SY Ragtime, also looked to be having a very competitive race a little behind the division one yachts. Several competitors commented to me that they really enjoyed today's race course as we sailed around islands, not just buoys, which added a unique Auckland Harbour dimension to the whole race.Mark Wightman, chairman of NZ Marine which developed and organises the Millennium Cup superyacht regatta, was on the water on a spectator boat as the yachts crossed the finish line within approximately ten minutes of each other. "It was a magnificent sight watching these luxury craft under full sail," said Wightman. "There were a number of spectators gathered to watch our race finish and every Millennium Cup competitor got a great welcome home." Silvertip was followed home by Janice of Wyoming, Thalia, Naos and Ragtime. Points are awarded on a reverse basis, so Silvertip has one point, Janice of Wyoming two points, etc. The yacht with the least number of points after the event's four races will win the New Zealand Millennium Cup for 2009. Photo: Jeff Brown / Superyacht Media. Millennium Cup +64 9 376 1300 <a href="mailto:pacificseries@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%202009%20%28SuperYachtTimes.com%29">pacificseries@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>

Silvertip takes first NZ Millennium Cup race 

The 105ft cutter rig S/Y Naos has been confirmed as a Millennium Cup entrant, bringing the total number of confirmed entrants in the event's division one class for superyachts over 100ft to four. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/126581/image/large-5adadbd7cb68187b80c348ebd487d0db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/126581">"We're delighted to announce that S.Y. Naos will join S.Y. Janice of Wyoming, S.Y. Thalia and S.Y. Silvertip to sail for the Millennium Cup on Auckland Harbour next week," says Mark Wightman, chairman of the Millennium Cup Pacific Series organising committee. "And assuming that the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series lay day falls on a suitable day of the Millennium Cup, we'll also see S/Y Zenji join the others for one of our races." "Along with S.Y. Ragtime and the unofficial-but-nonetheless interesting entry of NZL41, one of New Zealand's America's Cup boats from 1995, we are surer than ever this is going to be a great sailing regatta. We're very close to confirming one, possibly two more sailing yachts," adds Wightman. "We won't say which ones just yet; let's get the entry details confirmed with the owners and crews first.""While this Millennium Cup won't have the sheer numbers we saw at our last event in Palma de Mallorca, we're confident the sailing will be no less intense as these fantastic sailing yachts compete in a best of four races regatta for the cup." Millennium Cup +64 9 376 1300 <a href="mailto:pacificseries@millenniumcup.com?subject=Millennium%20Cup%202009%20%28SuperYachtTimes.com%29">pacificseries@millenniumcup.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.millenniumcup.com">www.millenniumcup.com</a>