scuttlebutt
Date: Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:30:05 +1100
Subject: Scuttlebutt_6487_–_November_25,_2025
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Scuttlebutt Sailing News [1]
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 - Issue 6487
50m Project ELEMENTAL Catamaran by Tripp Design.
This newsletter is provided through the support of its sponsors, delivering a digest of major sailing news, commentary, opinions, features and dock talk…with a North American focus.
Today's sponsors:
UK Sailmakers - Tripp Design - New York Yacht Club
HAPPY THANKSGIVING [2]
To celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in the USA, the Scuttlebutt HQ staff this week will be enjoying football, food, and family, which means no Friday newsletter. If you are working on your holiday gift list, consider buying stuff from Scuttlebutt suppliers [2]. Thank you!
Junior Sailing: How real success looks [3]
Scott Lindley, Head Optimist Coach of Southern Yacht Club and United States Optimist Dinghy Association (USODA) Development Program Director, examines what real success looks like in a Junior Sailing Program.
Many people assume a successful junior sailing program is defined by winning championships. But real success runs much deeper than results on a scoreboard. Too often, little thought is given to how success is truly built, or what it even means for a youth program or an individual developing sailor.
Parents, sailors, yacht clubs, and sailing organizations often believe that one coach, or a specific group of coaches, is what makes a program great. In reality, lasting success comes from a balanced combination of support from parents and the club, strong coaching, and an environment where sailors can learn, have fun, feel included, and contribute at their own pace and level.
This is the true foundation of a thriving program. Winning becomes a natural byproduct, not the primary objective. The growth and long-term health of any racing program depends on these principles.
I have spent over 25 years developing youth Optimist sailors and currently serve as the USODA Optimist Development Program Director and USODA Development Team Head Coach, a role I’ve held for six years.
I’ve coached with the US Optimist Development Team, National Team and International Teams since 2006, and am the Head Optimist Coach at Southern Yacht Club. My primary mission is not simply to produce elite Optimist sailors, but to cultivate young people who love the sport enough to continue beyond Optis, whether competing at the Corinthian level or pursuing Olympic dreams.
I’m proud of the sailors who have followed this path. Former Opti sailors such as Ian McDermaid, Charlotte Rose, and Ford and Marshall McCann are now competing at the Olympic level. Others, like Wade Waddell, Ricky Welch, Wiley Rogers, Duncan Wiliford, Chris Wiliford, and Cody Stansky, have become major forces in the national sailing scene. These individuals are not only exceptional sailors; they are outstanding people. And that, more than anything, is the result of the environment described above.
Unfortunately, I’ve also seen many talented sailors burn out, quit, or lose their passion entirely. This almost always stems from programs that are unbalanced, overly pressurized, or focused solely on short-term success at the expense of long-term development and love for the sport. - Read on [4]
[5]
Now’s the Best Time to Order Your 2025 Sails [6]
With the 2025 season wrapping up for many sailors, it’s a great time to plan ahead for next year’s racing calendar. UK Sailmakers suggests you:
1. Make a list of gear, lines, and parts that need replacing,
2. Decide if your boat’s bottom needs work,
3. Evaluate your system upgrades “wish list,” and
4. Order new sails now to enjoy season-end pricing and ensure you’re ready for that first warning gun in 2025.
Talk to UK Sailmakers about your options, from grand-prix Titanium® sails to price-performing X-Drive®—plus a full range of spinnakers. And, if new sails are on your list, have UK measure your boat before you packit it up for winter.
Find your nearest UK Sailmaker at www.uksailmakers.com [6]
Moving team racing to the next level [7]
Amanda Callahan (USA), Chair of the World Sailing Team Race Committee, provides a snapshot of where team racing currently stands — globally and structurally — with some thoughts on what her committee is doing to respond to underlying challenges.
The comeback of elite team racing
After years of relative dormancy at the highest level, team racing is showing signs of resurgence. World Sailing rebooted the Team Racing World Championship in 2025 in a new 2v2 keelboat format. That championship, held in Newport, RI, hosted 12 teams from 10 countries.
The Global Team Race Regatta, started in 2019, has been held annually to fill the void created when the Team Race World Championship ceased. In 2025, it attracted teams from AUS, JPN, BDA, NED, USA, SWE, ITA, SCO, and UK. 2K team racing in Europe promotes fun, gender equal, and affordable keelboat team racing with events across Europe.
Major dinghy team races, like the Wilson Trophy (UK TR Championship) and Hinman Trophy (US TR Championship), continue to be over subscribed. - Full report [7]
[8]
Giving back to your one design class [9]
My name is Hank Saurage, and I was introduced to sailing at the age of 10. The Sunfish was the first boat I sailed by myself, and I loved it! I have raced Sunfish competitively from my teens through the current day.
Racing the Sunfish for over 50 years, I gained new friends, new skills, independence, great experiences and memories that’ll last a lifetime. The Sunfish Class has given me so much that I feel compelled to give back to the Class in a meaningful way, and to encourage others to consider doing the same.
With the formation of the new US Sunfish Class Association (USSCA) Foundation [10], we now have the opportunity and vehicle to create a legacy for future generations of sailors and class members. We should all reflect on the benefits of being part of this wonderful family of sailors in the USSCA, and consider leaving “your own legacy” by supporting the foundation in a meaningful way.
As you contemplate this message, I will make it easier for you to make a donation to the foundation. I am offering a matching Grant up to $10,000 for all gifts made to the foundation between now and April 1, 2026 (my birthday).
We all have a passion for racing Sunfish and sailing in general. We are most thankful for each other… our sailing family. Please join me and leave a legacy. For more information and to make a contribution, click here [11].
[12]
200 miles offshore with no rudder [13]
Just after midnight, the Grand Soleil 43 Trustmarque Quokka left the River Hamble in the UK, bound for Malta and the Middle Sea Race via Cascais, Portugal. She was skippered by her owner, Peter Rutter, a former Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club, with three highly experienced crew: Graham Moody, Malcolm McEwen and Scott Dawson.
After Malta, Quokka was bound for the Canaries, where she would be joined by her race crew in a bid to win her class in the ARC transatlantic rally, reaching St Lucia in time for Christmas.
Quokka was in ocean-going trim, prepared for commercial MCA approval and equipped with a large quantity of water and food, a water-maker and a full tank of diesel with 70 litres in a back-up container: but 200 miles off the French coast, disaster struck.
Quokka’s rudder snapped, leaving the crew with no way of steering. – Full story [14]
[15]
Safety: Quality time on the water [16]
The key to safety, especially when you sail solo, is not gadgets but proficiency earned through time and experience. Yachting World’s Nikki Henderson explores why time on the water trumps all safety gadgets and certificates.
Boat owners, future boat owners, dreamer boat owners, the most common question they ask me is, ‘What’s going to make me and my boat safer?’ They want to know what my one piece of crew-overboard gear is that I’d recommend, my thoughts on which sea survival course is the best, or an instruction manual for emergency situations.
In other words, they’re looking for a quick fix. I’ve got a bugbear here, you cannot buy safety, you cannot shortcut safety. Safety has to be earned, and that takes time. Gear and certificates don’t make you safer, not in isolation anyway. You need another key ingredient. So, what is that? What actually makes you a safer sailor? – Full story [17]
[18]
Future of sustainability in our sport [19]
by Emily Conklin, Sailors for the Sea
With Clean Regattas hosted in 53 countries around the world, we rarely get the opportunity to see our organizers face-to-face. Most of our work supporting events happens virtually, and we’ve gotten to know hundreds of clubs without ever stepping foot inside them.
This is part of why it was such a treat to attend this year’s World Sailing Conference in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, an annual gathering of the sailing industry’s key stakeholders to discuss the future of the sport.
World Sailing is a close partner in our mission to activate and empower the sailing community to restore ocean health, and this year’s conference was no exception. Sustainability was front and center across all sessions we were lucky enough to attend.
Our week started with a workshop hosted during the Development Symposium, a series of sessions dedicated to shaping the future of the sport. This year, the theme was “One Sport, One Future: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact”. – Full Story [20]
[21]
The Perfect Bridge from Power to Sail [mailto:danielle@tripp.design]
Project Elemental is a 50m sailing catamaran concept designed as an elegant bridge for motoryacht owners who want to move into sailing. Created by Tripp Design Naval Architecture and Design Unlimited, it blends the stability, space and luxury of a motor yacht with the quiet efficiency and autonomy of sail.
Bill Tripp describes it as “exciting to sail but never intimidating,” delivering enjoyable performance without the heeling or complexity often associated with large sailing yachts.
Twin hulls ensure exceptional stability and expansive deck areas, while hybrid and regenerative systems minimize fuel use and guarantee a far greater cruising range than any motor yacht.
With generous hull volume, the yacht offers interiors familiar to motoryacht owners. Design Unlimited has crafted sociable open spaces balanced with private retreats, including a main-deck duplex owner’s suite, a VIP cabin and four guest cabins. Outdoor areas - from bow trampolines to an aft beach club and spa - encourage relaxation.
The layout supports extended living aboard, with a flybridge for socializing and calm corners for solitude. Crew spaces are generous, and the simple, well-balanced 1,230-square-meter sail plan ensures safe, straightforward operation. Built in lightweight Alustar aluminium, the yacht prioritizes control, comfort, and sustainability.
More than a concept, Project Elemental is a customizable platform shaped by experience from large sailing cruising yachts. It offers motoryacht owners a familiar level of luxury while introducing the transformative moment when the engines fall silent and the wind takes over.
For more information, contact Danielle at [danielle@tripp.design]
SailGP: Four teams seek $2million payday [22]
The SailGP sports league will conclude its fifth season on the Persian Gulf when 12 teams compete at the final event win but also the overall season title on November 29-30 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The schedule begins with six fleet races split over two days to determine the event 12 winner, with the top three teams on the season leaderboard then advancing to the Grand Final to go head-to-head in a single winner-takes-all race.
The rules are simple: the first across the finish line takes the Season 5 title and the $2 million prize. Mathematically, only four teams can make it to the three-boat Grand Final race this Season: Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, and Spain.
Will Spain defend its Season 4 crown? Can Australia get its third title? Does overall leader Great Britain retain form for final victory? Race times each day are 14:00-15:30 GST (05:00-06:30 EST)
SailGP information [23] - Abu Dhabi event [24] - YouTube [25]
[26]
Recognizing a lifetime of achievement [27]
The Pindar Lifetime Achievement Award for 2025, presented by the International Association of Cape Horners, goes to Sir Robin Knox-Johnston KB CBE RD. Sir Robin, who lives in Portsmouth UK, has been inspiring sailors the world over since becoming the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world aboard his treasured 32ft 6in traditional wooden yacht Suhaili back in 1968-69.
He is still inspiring newcomers. The Clipper Round the World yacht race has introduced some 20,000 amateur crews to the sport since he co-founded the event in 1996. And this year, at the age of 86, he led old friends on a cruise to Greenland and back.
One circumnavigation was never going to be enough. Sir Robin has completed three, and also competed in the 1977-78 Whitbread Round the World Race, skippering the British maxi yacht Heath’s Condor to elapsed time victories on legs 2 and 4. - Full report [27]
[28]
Lyttle begins term as ILCA President [29]
At the recent 2025 ILCA Annual General Meeting, Mark Lyttle was elected as the new President of the ILCA Class Association. With decades of experience as an ILCA sailor, Olympian, and active member of the global community, he now steps into the role with enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the class. Below is his first message to all ILCA sailors as he begins his term.
This is my first message as the new President of ILCA following our annual meeting at the weekend. I would like to start by thanking Tracy Usher for his commitment and passion to ILCA sailing over many years. In particular, his work as President in guiding the class through the transition from Laser to ILCA.
I am delighted to say that the World Council has elected Tracy to the ILCA Hall of Fame. We have a thriving class and I look forward to building on that. - Full report [29]
[30]
Thinking about a Captain’s License? [31]
Have you ever considered getting your captain’s license? Here are some of the many reasons a sailor or powerboater might decide to get a captain’s license, presented by Captain Cheryl Duvall for Spinsheet.
Many of us began boating for recreational reasons. Maybe our parents had a sailboat, or we were introduced to sailing by racers who needed crew. Or we simply wanted to enjoy the outdoors and harness the wind. Whatever the reason, I doubt most of us began boating with the thought, “I’m going to get my captain’s license someday.”
I certainly didn’t. When I began sailing, I never considered recording days on the water. I was just happy to have access to small boats, whether my own or through clubs. I didn’t begin logging hours until I started cruising on larger boats, recording weather and destinations.
It wasn’t until my husband considered buying a boat for instructional purposes that we both thought about becoming licensed. After drafting a business plan, we decided not to pursue the commercial use of a personal boat for a variety of reasons. However, my husband decided to get his captain’s license to improve his boating skills. – Full story [32]
[33]
Martina Orsini wins Image Award 2025 [34]
A total of 120 marine photographers representing 26 nations took part in the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award 2025. The awards ceremony took place during the 2025 Yacht Racing Forum in Amsterdam, in front of leading personalities from across the sport, on November 21.
Italian photographer Martina Orsini has won the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award 2025 with a photo taken during Foiling Week in Malcesine.
Martina is the first woman to win the prestigious contest, now in its 16th edition. She finishes ahead of Eugenia Bakunova and Olivier Blanchet, while Suellen Hurling receives the Public Award based on online votes. - Full report [34]
[35]
Supersize Your Summer Sailing in 2026 [36]
The Newport Regatta and Race Week at Newport have been unofficially linked for many years. In 2026, the relationship will deepen as the country’s premiere public sailing facility and most prestigious yacht club join forces to present a 9-day sailing festival, July 11 to 19, with competition across a wide range of classes.
Larger one-designs have an opportunity to schedule a two-part championship, or a tune-up weekend followed by a four-day regatta. Small-boat sailors can enjoy salt-soaked close-quarters combat in the Newport Regatta and then find a statelier ride for Race Week. It may be too early to submit your time-off request, but it’s not too early to start organizing your one-design class, locking in your dream team and eagerly anticipating bright sun, warm water, great wind, invigorating competition and sumptuous on-shore social events.
The Newport Regatta will run July 11 and 12 while Race Week at Newport will take place July 16 to 19.
• For more information contact NYYC ( [sailingoffice@nyyc.org]) or Sail Newport ( [brad.read@sailnewport.org])
• 2026 New York Yacht Club Racing Calendar: [36]
DOCK TALK
Cape Horn Hall of Fame, Class of 2025 [37]
The International Association of Cape Horners (IACH) Cape Horn Hall of Fame have named six people for the Class of 2025 inductees. Five-time circumnavigator Paul Standbridge, photographer Rick Tomlinson, and solo offshore racer Samantha Davies represented the UK while France had Vendée Globe Race winner Charlie Dalin, Catherine Chabaud, the first women to complete a Vendée Globe solo circumnavigation, and fellow sailing heroine Isabelle Autissier. - Full report [37]
[38]
2025 J/24 US National Championship [39]
Forty J/24 teams from across the continent gathered November 21-23 for the 2025 J/24 US National Championship where they were dealt light and challenging conditions in Jacksonville, FL. The top survivor was Paul Abdullah with crew Ian Hunter, Tucker Gilliam, Jeff Hayden, and Max Vinocur. - Full report [39]
[40]
Surge clinches M32 World Champs [41]
The 2025 M32 World Championship was held November 17-22 in Miami, Florida. After five years in the class, Ryan McKillen’s Surge (USA) has climbed to the top of the M32 world. With a string of consistent results, the team secured their first World Championship title with a race to spare. Ten boats competed, with eight from the USA. - Full report [41]
[42]
CA Dreamin’ open for applications [43]
The Organizing Authority is now accepting requests for invitation from skippers wishing to compete in the 2026 California Dreamin’ Series. This popular match racing series, now in its 15th consecutive year, features events at four prominent clubs on the West Coast. - Full report [43]
[44]
Applications open for WASZP teams [45]
The North American WASZP Class has officially opened applications for the 2026 WASZP Race Teams, launching the most comprehensive foiling development system ever assembled in North America. - Full report [45]
[46]
GUEST COMMENTARY
Scuttlebutt strongly encourages feedback from the Scuttlebutt community. You can add your comments directly to stories on the website [47] or submit commentary by email [mailto:editor@sailingscuttlebutt.com]. Please save your bashing and personal attacks for elsewhere.
LOSING INTEREST IN AMERICA’S CUP ( #6486 [48])
Hooray to Roger Marshall for his excellent piece on the America’s Cup. In addition to being boring and impossible to relate to the general sailing population, the horrendous costs have eliminated syndicates created for the purpose of challenging or defending. It has become a spectacle for a limited audience.
- David A. Rosow
I belong to a 250-member club, have done one design racing for 45 years, now own a 30-footer now for cruising, and have been active in my club at various levels including Commodore. The America’s Cup does not receive even passing interest among my club members. You are spot on with your observation that is irrelevant to the larger sailing community.
- Pete Moltzen
The America’s Cup boats would create the same interest as SailGP if the AC went to a fleet racing format instead of match racing. Fleet racing is what brings the excitement.
- Jeffrey Moody
CURMUDGEON'S OBSERVATION
The grass next door may be greener, but it's just as hard to cut.
SPONSORS THIS WEEK
UK Sailmakers - Tripp Design - New York Yacht Club
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[1] http://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com
[2] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/sailing-supplies-resources/
[3] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/21/junior-sailing-how-real-success-looks/
[4] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/21/junior-sailing-how-real-success-looks/#more
[5] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-m/
[6] http://www.uksailmakers.com/
[7] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/24/moving-team-racing-to-the-next-level/
[8] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-c/
[9] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/24/giving-back-to-your-one-design-class/
[10] https://www.sunfishclass.org/ussca_foundation
[11] https://www.sunfishclass.org/packet/t49744524
[12] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-q/
[13] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/24/200-miles-offshore-with-no-rudder/
[14] https://www.pbo.co.uk/expert-advice/200-miles-offshore-with-no-rudder-how-four-sailors-built-a-jury-rudder-from-cabin-doors-99988
[15] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-g/
[16] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/22/safety-quality-time-on-the-water/
[17] https://www.yachtingworld.com/comment/why-time-on-the-water-trumps-all-safety-gadgets-and-certificates-nikki-henderson-160819
[18] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-jk/
[19] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/22/future-of-sustainability-in-our-sport/
[20] https://sailorsforthesea.org/blog/world-sailing-conference-2025/
[21] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-ju/
[22] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/24/sailgp-four-teams-seek-2million-payday/
[23] https://sailgp.com/about
[24] https://sailgp.com/races/24-25/grand-final-abu-dhabi/tickets
[25] https://www.youtube.com/c/SailGP
[26] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-tl/
[27] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/23/recognizing-a-lifetime-of-achievement-2/
[28] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-tj/
[29] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/23/lyttle-begins-term-as-ilca-president/
[30] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-tk/
[31] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/21/thinking-about-a-captains-license/
[32] https://www.spinsheet.com/news/why-get-captains-license
[33] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-ii/
[34] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/21/martina-orsini-wins-image-award-2025/
[35] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-ik/
[36] https://nyyc.org/2026-fleet-racing
[37] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/24/cape-horn-hall-of-fame-class-of-2025/
[38] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-dy/
[39] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/23/2025-j-24-us-national-championship/
[40] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-dd/
[41] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/23/surge-clinches-m32-world-champs/
[42] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-hl/
[43] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/23/ca-dreamin-open-for-applications/
[44] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-kj/
[45] https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/11/22/applications-open-for-waszp-teams/
[46] https://email.sailingscuttlebutt.com/t/j-fb-ydzttdk-ijtljumj-kt/
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Subject: Scuttlebutt_6487_–_November_25,_2025
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Scuttlebutt Sailing News [1]
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 - Issue 6487
50m Project ELEMENTAL Catamaran by Tripp Design.
This newsletter is provided through the support of its sponsors, delivering a digest of major sailing news, commentary, opinions, features and dock talk…with a North American focus.
Today's sponsors:
UK Sailmakers - Tripp Design - New York Yacht Club
HAPPY THANKSGIVING [2]
To celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in the USA, the Scuttlebutt HQ staff this week will be enjoying football, food, and family, which means no Friday newsletter. If you are working on your holiday gift list, consider buying stuff from Scuttlebutt suppliers [2]. Thank you!
Junior Sailing: How real success looks [3]
Scott Lindley, Head Optimist Coach of Southern Yacht Club and United States Optimist Dinghy Association (USODA) Development Program Director, examines what real success looks like in a Junior Sailing Program.
Many people assume a successful junior sailing program is defined by winning championships. But real success runs much deeper than results on a scoreboard. Too often, little thought is given to how success is truly built, or what it even means for a youth program or an individual developing sailor.
Parents, sailors, yacht clubs, and sailing organizations often believe that one coach, or a specific group of coaches, is what makes a program great. In reality, lasting success comes from a balanced combination of support from parents and the club, strong coaching, and an environment where sailors can learn, have fun, feel included, and contribute at their own pace and level.
This is the true foundation of a thriving program. Winning becomes a natural byproduct, not the primary objective. The growth and long-term health of any racing program depends on these principles.
I have spent over 25 years developing youth Optimist sailors and currently serve as the USODA Optimist Development Program Director and USODA Development Team Head Coach, a role I’ve held for six years.
I’ve coached with the US Optimist Development Team, National Team and International Teams since 2006, and am the Head Optimist Coach at Southern Yacht Club. My primary mission is not simply to produce elite Optimist sailors, but to cultivate young people who love the sport enough to continue beyond Optis, whether competing at the Corinthian level or pursuing Olympic dreams.
I’m proud of the sailors who have followed this path. Former Opti sailors such as Ian McDermaid, Charlotte Rose, and Ford and Marshall McCann are now competing at the Olympic level. Others, like Wade Waddell, Ricky Welch, Wiley Rogers, Duncan Wiliford, Chris Wiliford, and Cody Stansky, have become major forces in the national sailing scene. These individuals are not only exceptional sailors; they are outstanding people. And that, more than anything, is the result of the environment described above.
Unfortunately, I’ve also seen many talented sailors burn out, quit, or lose their passion entirely. This almost always stems from programs that are unbalanced, overly pressurized, or focused solely on short-term success at the expense of long-term development and love for the sport. - Read on [4]
[5]
Now’s the Best Time to Order Your 2025 Sails [6]
With the 2025 season wrapping up for many sailors, it’s a great time to plan ahead for next year’s racing calendar. UK Sailmakers suggests you:
1. Make a list of gear, lines, and parts that need replacing,
2. Decide if your boat’s bottom needs work,
3. Evaluate your system upgrades “wish list,” and
4. Order new sails now to enjoy season-end pricing and ensure you’re ready for that first warning gun in 2025.
Talk to UK Sailmakers about your options, from grand-prix Titanium® sails to price-performing X-Drive®—plus a full range of spinnakers. And, if new sails are on your list, have UK measure your boat before you packit it up for winter.
Find your nearest UK Sailmaker at www.uksailmakers.com [6]
Moving team racing to the next level [7]
Amanda Callahan (USA), Chair of the World Sailing Team Race Committee, provides a snapshot of where team racing currently stands — globally and structurally — with some thoughts on what her committee is doing to respond to underlying challenges.
The comeback of elite team racing
After years of relative dormancy at the highest level, team racing is showing signs of resurgence. World Sailing rebooted the Team Racing World Championship in 2025 in a new 2v2 keelboat format. That championship, held in Newport, RI, hosted 12 teams from 10 countries.
The Global Team Race Regatta, started in 2019, has been held annually to fill the void created when the Team Race World Championship ceased. In 2025, it attracted teams from AUS, JPN, BDA, NED, USA, SWE, ITA, SCO, and UK. 2K team racing in Europe promotes fun, gender equal, and affordable keelboat team racing with events across Europe.
Major dinghy team races, like the Wilson Trophy (UK TR Championship) and Hinman Trophy (US TR Championship), continue to be over subscribed. - Full report [7]
[8]
Giving back to your one design class [9]
My name is Hank Saurage, and I was introduced to sailing at the age of 10. The Sunfish was the first boat I sailed by myself, and I loved it! I have raced Sunfish competitively from my teens through the current day.
Racing the Sunfish for over 50 years, I gained new friends, new skills, independence, great experiences and memories that’ll last a lifetime. The Sunfish Class has given me so much that I feel compelled to give back to the Class in a meaningful way, and to encourage others to consider doing the same.
With the formation of the new US Sunfish Class Association (USSCA) Foundation [10], we now have the opportunity and vehicle to create a legacy for future generations of sailors and class members. We should all reflect on the benefits of being part of this wonderful family of sailors in the USSCA, and consider leaving “your own legacy” by supporting the foundation in a meaningful way.
As you contemplate this message, I will make it easier for you to make a donation to the foundation. I am offering a matching Grant up to $10,000 for all gifts made to the foundation between now and April 1, 2026 (my birthday).
We all have a passion for racing Sunfish and sailing in general. We are most thankful for each other… our sailing family. Please join me and leave a legacy. For more information and to make a contribution, click here [11].
[12]
200 miles offshore with no rudder [13]
Just after midnight, the Grand Soleil 43 Trustmarque Quokka left the River Hamble in the UK, bound for Malta and the Middle Sea Race via Cascais, Portugal. She was skippered by her owner, Peter Rutter, a former Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club, with three highly experienced crew: Graham Moody, Malcolm McEwen and Scott Dawson.
After Malta, Quokka was bound for the Canaries, where she would be joined by her race crew in a bid to win her class in the ARC transatlantic rally, reaching St Lucia in time for Christmas.
Quokka was in ocean-going trim, prepared for commercial MCA approval and equipped with a large quantity of water and food, a water-maker and a full tank of diesel with 70 litres in a back-up container: but 200 miles off the French coast, disaster struck.
Quokka’s rudder snapped, leaving the crew with no way of steering. – Full story [14]
[15]
Safety: Quality time on the water [16]
The key to safety, especially when you sail solo, is not gadgets but proficiency earned through time and experience. Yachting World’s Nikki Henderson explores why time on the water trumps all safety gadgets and certificates.
Boat owners, future boat owners, dreamer boat owners, the most common question they ask me is, ‘What’s going to make me and my boat safer?’ They want to know what my one piece of crew-overboard gear is that I’d recommend, my thoughts on which sea survival course is the best, or an instruction manual for emergency situations.
In other words, they’re looking for a quick fix. I’ve got a bugbear here, you cannot buy safety, you cannot shortcut safety. Safety has to be earned, and that takes time. Gear and certificates don’t make you safer, not in isolation anyway. You need another key ingredient. So, what is that? What actually makes you a safer sailor? – Full story [17]
[18]
Future of sustainability in our sport [19]
by Emily Conklin, Sailors for the Sea
With Clean Regattas hosted in 53 countries around the world, we rarely get the opportunity to see our organizers face-to-face. Most of our work supporting events happens virtually, and we’ve gotten to know hundreds of clubs without ever stepping foot inside them.
This is part of why it was such a treat to attend this year’s World Sailing Conference in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, an annual gathering of the sailing industry’s key stakeholders to discuss the future of the sport.
World Sailing is a close partner in our mission to activate and empower the sailing community to restore ocean health, and this year’s conference was no exception. Sustainability was front and center across all sessions we were lucky enough to attend.
Our week started with a workshop hosted during the Development Symposium, a series of sessions dedicated to shaping the future of the sport. This year, the theme was “One Sport, One Future: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact”. – Full Story [20]
[21]
The Perfect Bridge from Power to Sail [mailto:danielle@tripp.design]
Project Elemental is a 50m sailing catamaran concept designed as an elegant bridge for motoryacht owners who want to move into sailing. Created by Tripp Design Naval Architecture and Design Unlimited, it blends the stability, space and luxury of a motor yacht with the quiet efficiency and autonomy of sail.
Bill Tripp describes it as “exciting to sail but never intimidating,” delivering enjoyable performance without the heeling or complexity often associated with large sailing yachts.
Twin hulls ensure exceptional stability and expansive deck areas, while hybrid and regenerative systems minimize fuel use and guarantee a far greater cruising range than any motor yacht.
With generous hull volume, the yacht offers interiors familiar to motoryacht owners. Design Unlimited has crafted sociable open spaces balanced with private retreats, including a main-deck duplex owner’s suite, a VIP cabin and four guest cabins. Outdoor areas - from bow trampolines to an aft beach club and spa - encourage relaxation.
The layout supports extended living aboard, with a flybridge for socializing and calm corners for solitude. Crew spaces are generous, and the simple, well-balanced 1,230-square-meter sail plan ensures safe, straightforward operation. Built in lightweight Alustar aluminium, the yacht prioritizes control, comfort, and sustainability.
More than a concept, Project Elemental is a customizable platform shaped by experience from large sailing cruising yachts. It offers motoryacht owners a familiar level of luxury while introducing the transformative moment when the engines fall silent and the wind takes over.
For more information, contact Danielle at [danielle@tripp.design]
SailGP: Four teams seek $2million payday [22]
The SailGP sports league will conclude its fifth season on the Persian Gulf when 12 teams compete at the final event win but also the overall season title on November 29-30 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The schedule begins with six fleet races split over two days to determine the event 12 winner, with the top three teams on the season leaderboard then advancing to the Grand Final to go head-to-head in a single winner-takes-all race.
The rules are simple: the first across the finish line takes the Season 5 title and the $2 million prize. Mathematically, only four teams can make it to the three-boat Grand Final race this Season: Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, and Spain.
Will Spain defend its Season 4 crown? Can Australia get its third title? Does overall leader Great Britain retain form for final victory? Race times each day are 14:00-15:30 GST (05:00-06:30 EST)
SailGP information [23] - Abu Dhabi event [24] - YouTube [25]
[26]
Recognizing a lifetime of achievement [27]
The Pindar Lifetime Achievement Award for 2025, presented by the International Association of Cape Horners, goes to Sir Robin Knox-Johnston KB CBE RD. Sir Robin, who lives in Portsmouth UK, has been inspiring sailors the world over since becoming the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world aboard his treasured 32ft 6in traditional wooden yacht Suhaili back in 1968-69.
He is still inspiring newcomers. The Clipper Round the World yacht race has introduced some 20,000 amateur crews to the sport since he co-founded the event in 1996. And this year, at the age of 86, he led old friends on a cruise to Greenland and back.
One circumnavigation was never going to be enough. Sir Robin has completed three, and also competed in the 1977-78 Whitbread Round the World Race, skippering the British maxi yacht Heath’s Condor to elapsed time victories on legs 2 and 4. - Full report [27]
[28]
Lyttle begins term as ILCA President [29]
At the recent 2025 ILCA Annual General Meeting, Mark Lyttle was elected as the new President of the ILCA Class Association. With decades of experience as an ILCA sailor, Olympian, and active member of the global community, he now steps into the role with enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the class. Below is his first message to all ILCA sailors as he begins his term.
This is my first message as the new President of ILCA following our annual meeting at the weekend. I would like to start by thanking Tracy Usher for his commitment and passion to ILCA sailing over many years. In particular, his work as President in guiding the class through the transition from Laser to ILCA.
I am delighted to say that the World Council has elected Tracy to the ILCA Hall of Fame. We have a thriving class and I look forward to building on that. - Full report [29]
[30]
Thinking about a Captain’s License? [31]
Have you ever considered getting your captain’s license? Here are some of the many reasons a sailor or powerboater might decide to get a captain’s license, presented by Captain Cheryl Duvall for Spinsheet.
Many of us began boating for recreational reasons. Maybe our parents had a sailboat, or we were introduced to sailing by racers who needed crew. Or we simply wanted to enjoy the outdoors and harness the wind. Whatever the reason, I doubt most of us began boating with the thought, “I’m going to get my captain’s license someday.”
I certainly didn’t. When I began sailing, I never considered recording days on the water. I was just happy to have access to small boats, whether my own or through clubs. I didn’t begin logging hours until I started cruising on larger boats, recording weather and destinations.
It wasn’t until my husband considered buying a boat for instructional purposes that we both thought about becoming licensed. After drafting a business plan, we decided not to pursue the commercial use of a personal boat for a variety of reasons. However, my husband decided to get his captain’s license to improve his boating skills. – Full story [32]
[33]
Martina Orsini wins Image Award 2025 [34]
A total of 120 marine photographers representing 26 nations took part in the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award 2025. The awards ceremony took place during the 2025 Yacht Racing Forum in Amsterdam, in front of leading personalities from across the sport, on November 21.
Italian photographer Martina Orsini has won the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award 2025 with a photo taken during Foiling Week in Malcesine.
Martina is the first woman to win the prestigious contest, now in its 16th edition. She finishes ahead of Eugenia Bakunova and Olivier Blanchet, while Suellen Hurling receives the Public Award based on online votes. - Full report [34]
[35]
Supersize Your Summer Sailing in 2026 [36]
The Newport Regatta and Race Week at Newport have been unofficially linked for many years. In 2026, the relationship will deepen as the country’s premiere public sailing facility and most prestigious yacht club join forces to present a 9-day sailing festival, July 11 to 19, with competition across a wide range of classes.
Larger one-designs have an opportunity to schedule a two-part championship, or a tune-up weekend followed by a four-day regatta. Small-boat sailors can enjoy salt-soaked close-quarters combat in the Newport Regatta and then find a statelier ride for Race Week. It may be too early to submit your time-off request, but it’s not too early to start organizing your one-design class, locking in your dream team and eagerly anticipating bright sun, warm water, great wind, invigorating competition and sumptuous on-shore social events.
The Newport Regatta will run July 11 and 12 while Race Week at Newport will take place July 16 to 19.
• For more information contact NYYC ( [sailingoffice@nyyc.org]) or Sail Newport ( [brad.read@sailnewport.org])
• 2026 New York Yacht Club Racing Calendar: [36]
DOCK TALK
Cape Horn Hall of Fame, Class of 2025 [37]
The International Association of Cape Horners (IACH) Cape Horn Hall of Fame have named six people for the Class of 2025 inductees. Five-time circumnavigator Paul Standbridge, photographer Rick Tomlinson, and solo offshore racer Samantha Davies represented the UK while France had Vendée Globe Race winner Charlie Dalin, Catherine Chabaud, the first women to complete a Vendée Globe solo circumnavigation, and fellow sailing heroine Isabelle Autissier. - Full report [37]
[38]
2025 J/24 US National Championship [39]
Forty J/24 teams from across the continent gathered November 21-23 for the 2025 J/24 US National Championship where they were dealt light and challenging conditions in Jacksonville, FL. The top survivor was Paul Abdullah with crew Ian Hunter, Tucker Gilliam, Jeff Hayden, and Max Vinocur. - Full report [39]
[40]
Surge clinches M32 World Champs [41]
The 2025 M32 World Championship was held November 17-22 in Miami, Florida. After five years in the class, Ryan McKillen’s Surge (USA) has climbed to the top of the M32 world. With a string of consistent results, the team secured their first World Championship title with a race to spare. Ten boats competed, with eight from the USA. - Full report [41]
[42]
CA Dreamin’ open for applications [43]
The Organizing Authority is now accepting requests for invitation from skippers wishing to compete in the 2026 California Dreamin’ Series. This popular match racing series, now in its 15th consecutive year, features events at four prominent clubs on the West Coast. - Full report [43]
[44]
Applications open for WASZP teams [45]
The North American WASZP Class has officially opened applications for the 2026 WASZP Race Teams, launching the most comprehensive foiling development system ever assembled in North America. - Full report [45]
[46]
GUEST COMMENTARY
Scuttlebutt strongly encourages feedback from the Scuttlebutt community. You can add your comments directly to stories on the website [47] or submit commentary by email [mailto:editor@sailingscuttlebutt.com]. Please save your bashing and personal attacks for elsewhere.
LOSING INTEREST IN AMERICA’S CUP ( #6486 [48])
Hooray to Roger Marshall for his excellent piece on the America’s Cup. In addition to being boring and impossible to relate to the general sailing population, the horrendous costs have eliminated syndicates created for the purpose of challenging or defending. It has become a spectacle for a limited audience.
- David A. Rosow
I belong to a 250-member club, have done one design racing for 45 years, now own a 30-footer now for cruising, and have been active in my club at various levels including Commodore. The America’s Cup does not receive even passing interest among my club members. You are spot on with your observation that is irrelevant to the larger sailing community.
- Pete Moltzen
The America’s Cup boats would create the same interest as SailGP if the AC went to a fleet racing format instead of match racing. Fleet racing is what brings the excitement.
- Jeffrey Moody
CURMUDGEON'S OBSERVATION
The grass next door may be greener, but it's just as hard to cut.
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