Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Our contacts in Valencia are keeping us posted on the latest news. Although the two teams continue their (sometimes secret) negotiations, our sources bet that they will continue to fail to reach mutual consent and that the Match will go forward with the first race on Monday, February 8th.

GGYC sent a letter to SNG yesterday (Dec 22) claiming that Alinghi's sails are made in Nevada (by North) and therefore do not comply with the "constructed in the country" language of the Deed of Gift.

SNG replied today (Dec 23) with their own letter, stating that the sails are constructed in Switzerland.

Link to the GGYC letter here.
Link to the SNG reply here.

Of course, the pundits are now discussing how the word "constructed" will be interpreted.

And, the real wags have noticed that the Deed of Gift says: "...with a yacht or vessel propelled by sails only and constructed in the country..." Doesn't say anything about wings, does it?

In spite of the wrangling, we still expect to see these spectacular boats racing on February 8 off Valencia. We hope you will join us!

Herreshoff at the 33rd America's Cup

The Herreshoff Marine Museum / America’s Cup Hall of Fame is working with a highly respected global travel agency to create a first-class hospitality program for our friends and supporters to be a part of the 33rd America’s Cup, currently scheduled from February 8 - 12, 2010 in Valencia, Spain. is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will feature a battle between Alinghi’s sleek catamaran and the stunning winged tri of BMW ORACLE Racing.

We are seeking expressions of interest from our friends so that we may better plan the experience. Details of the package, including dates, will be finalized as soon as possible based upon response. Due to timing, when final details are announced, reservations will require payment in full.

If you would be interested in participating, contact us at events@herreshoff.org as soon as possible.

This exclusive package will include:
- Round trip airfare from NY to Valencia
- Five-star hotel accommodations for seven nights, including breakfast
- Seven dinners, including a Gala Event
- VIP Hospitality Program for three race days, including:
VIP shore lounge
Morning refreshments
Pre-race briefing
VIP spectator boat with expert commentary
Champagne toast on board
On-board gourmet buffet lunch
Wine, beer, soft drinks available throughout the day
Souvenir on-board gift
Post-race debrief with aperitif in VIP shore lounge
- Land transfers to and from airport, between hotel and VIP lounge, and to
all dinners

Price not to exceed $8,975 per person (double occupancy).

Options (prices TBD):
- Business class airfare upgrade from economy
- Single occupancy hotel room
- Suite upgrade from double room
- Extended stay if races are postponed due to weather
- Additional hospitality days, if more than three races are sailed

IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Currently planned race calendar is best of three races, with race days scheduled for February 8, 10, and 12 (if needed).
- Defender and Challenger are currently negotiating regatta details. Race dates and number of races could change.
- Best of five or best of seven races are under discussion, with first race day February 12.
- NOR calls for maximum wind speed of 15 kts for racing, with maximum sea state of 1 metre swells. Races could be delayed or postponed due to weather.