12 Metres in Narragansett

More summer sailing happenings:  An interesting little regatta was put together this year in celebration of all the America's Cup events and racing happening in Newport the last week of June. South County Tourism Council, the towns of Narragansett and South Kingstown, their chambers of commerce, and several sponsors including The Mews Tavern, Matunuck Oyster Bar, The Whale Rockers, The Coast Guard House Restaurant, and the Narragansett Lions Club (among others) brought together six 12 Metres to sail for a small regatta off of Narragansett Town Beach. Coined the South County 12 Metre Regatta, all of the participating boats had sailed in past America's Cup events, including two-time cup winner Intrepid, cup winners Columbia and Weatherly, American Eagle with her prestigious racing record, the trial boat Northern Light and cup contender Nefertiti.

While spectators watched from shore and a ticketed pre-race party was held at the Coast Guard House, I watched from a boat out on the water.  It was an absolutely beautiful day with calm seas, gentle breeze, nice and sunny.... actually it was probably a better beach day than sailing day, especially at the get-go when the 12 metres struggled to find breeze, but they managed to get a few races off.  All of these ships are available for charter, and were actually crewed by charter-ers for the regatta!  You can get more information about these wonderful classics and chartering opportunities at 12 Metre Charters and America's Cup Charters.