First video of Emirates Team NZ sailing the SL33 catamaran, which the team are using as a surrogate boat for the AC72.
The SL33 is the largest size catamaran, aside from a limited us of AC45's, that can be used without breaking the Surrogate Rule, which is part of the Protocol for the 34th America's Cup. The rule is designed to prevent more well funded teams running extensive two-boat testing programs.
The SL33 is completely exempt from this rule and will allow Emirates Team NZ to test and sail at will.
Although she features a soft sail rig in its current form, the platform is expected to be fitted with a wingsail as the team tests out wingsail concepts ahead of building the AC72 version.
The SL33 is designed for, and has curved lifting foils which help the leeward hull to climb from the water reducing drag and increasing speed. The larger AC45's which are supposed to be a one-design, are fitted with straight foils only.
The video below is taken on 13 July 2011, with the two SL33's being sailed on the Waitemata harbour, Auckland.
For Sail-World's news on Emirates Team NZ click here
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