Sail Queenstown

THIS ACTIVITY IS NOT OPERATING.

With a rich heritage and tradition, the America’s cup is the oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy in yachting. Capturing the hearts and minds of yachting enthusiasts for over 150 years this premiere event has produced some of the fastest, sleekest most beautiful yachts ever built...

Our America’s Cup yacht NZL 14 offers you the unique opportunity to sail in style on the spectacular waters of Lake Wakatipu.

Join the crew and get involved, or just sit back relax and enjoy the ride.

The Sailing Experience

Once off the dock, NZL 14 motors out past the historic white beacon at the head of Queenstown Bay. When clear of the reef, a grinding team is called upon to hoist the mainsail, 115ft to the top of the carbon fibre mast.

Following this the headsail is hoisted, the engine turned off, and NL14 sails through the waters of Lake Wakatipu, with breathtaking sights of the rugged mountain ranges, the only sounds being the water lapping on the hull.

Returning to Queenstown Bay under spinnaker, there is time to enjoy the stunning scenery and let the magic of sailing aboard a grand prix racing yacht sink in. A privilege usually reserved for the yachting greats - such as Coutts, Conner, and Lipton.

NZL 14 History

1992 - Part of the New Zealand Challenge for the America’s Cup, skippered by Russell Coutts

1998 - Hong Kong used her for part of their campaign for the 2000 America’s Cup

2003 - San Francisco, match and fleet racing - Moet Cup

2005 - September: Shipped to Auckland, New Zealand

October: NZL 14 trucked down the North Island, ferried across Cook Strait, and driven to the southern end of Lake Wakatipu, Kingston - 45˚ south.

October 27th: Lifted into the water by crane, and motored to Queenstown Bay.

November 15th: First official sailing of NZL 14, America’s Cup yacht on Lake Wakatipu.

Trip Information

The only sailing opportunity on Lake Wakatipu
View the surrounding splendour from a unique perspective
2 hour sailings daily
Life jackets and full safety briefings provided
Suits people of all abilities and experience levels
Please wear soft soled shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather conditions on the day
Great wet weather option
NZL 14 operates all year round
Sailing up to 4 times a day in summer - please enquire about our current sailing times
NZL 14 sailing pants and jackets are available
Great for exclusive charters, conference groups and team building