What’S The Top Speed Of An Americas Cup Catamaran?

The 75-foot keel-less yachts, known as the AC40, are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 50 knots (93 kilometres per hour) in the right conditions. Early trials of the AC40 by Emirates Team New Zealand have been sensational, with speeds recorded in the high-40-knot bracket. It is anticipated that this new class will form a global racing class before the 2021 Americas Cup in New Zealand.

The AC72 catamarans are very fast, reaching peak speeds of 37-38 knots. They have two large L-foils and two spade rudders with T-foils. Crewed by five people, including a helmsman, the AC40 Performance. In light winds, the AC40 is expected to sail at up to 26 knots at 46º upwind and 30 knots. The wing technology will improve the trimaran’s apparent wind angle, potentially enabling the multihull to exceed two to 2.5 times wind speed.

The upcoming Americas Cup challenge will have maximum speed, with typical racing speeds being over 30 knots (55 kmh, 34 mph) in the right conditions. The American Magic AC75 has arrived in Barcelona but is not expected to reach maximum speeds. The Kiwis set a new top speed of 50.7 knots in a bear-away, while Alinghi Red Bull Racing broached twice in top end conditions.

In their final race before being knocked out of the competition, American Magic’s Patriot registered a top speed of 53.3 knots during a bear. The boats will be expected to fly at speeds touching 50 knots in winds that average 12 knots in late summers in Barcelona.