THE AC35 - CLASS YACHT IN ACTION
| NZ AC35-Class Yacht |
It's been a few years since I have written anything, due to work commitment and hectic schedules. To recap the trip that I took on the "Americas Cup" sailing boat, it was a very memorable experienced. It doesn't aged, and felt as if I've just taken the trip yesterday.
As the boat cruised through the bay (or the Great Sound) we saw some beautiful houses and mansions stretched along the sea front. A few notable Yacht Clubs were also noticeable, namely : Royal Akarana Yacht Club, Tamaki Yacht Club and Richmond Yacht Club Inc.
Look how the weather quickly deteriorated ...... cloudy and overcast. We were notified by the skipper (Captain) that the wind might blow a lil' bit stronger and cautioned us to hold on to something solid. True enough, the wind started to increase in strength as we approached the open sea. Together we tightened the slack on our jib and main sails. We were zooming thru' the water. "What a Speed" - "Speedy Gonzaleez" so exhilarating.....I told myself "This is once-in-a-lifetime experience". I was told this elite yacht is worth over NZ$1 million, a racing machine that is usually the domain of professional sailors.
The trip back to Waitemata Harbour was equally enjoyable. We got the glimpse of the new NZ AC35 - Class Yacht being put to test at the Great Sound. On her top speed she seemed to glide high on her centreboard keel. Pretty amazing !
| She seems like flying over the water ! |
The two hour trip was well worth it. It costs NZ$155 for this two hour sailing experience. Any landlubbers can experience what it's like to crew an elite yacht. Normally there are 11 crew in a racing team. This time around we have only 5 of them. The balance is complemented by the "landlubbers". There's no pressure to participate - it's fine to sit back and enjoy the sailing - but for those who want to get on the action, there's plenty to do. Work up a sweat on the grinders (winches), learn the art of tacking, steer the boat, or simply keep a lookout for approaching ships and boats.
| Homeward bound into the harbour |
| Secured once again at the waterfront |
It was two hours well spent and will continue my next episode soon.......
