China Team's CHN-95 on her way to Valencia

The hull of CHN-95, the first ever Chinese America's Cup yacht, has left Hong Kong and is on its way to Valencia. Expected to arrive in the Chinese base in Valencia in about 3 weeks from now, the "Red Dragon" will be painted and prepared for sailing and is scheduled to make its first sail in early February.

CHN-95 is the first Class America ever to be built on Chinese soil. It was planned and designed by the China Design Team, which includes Daniel Andrieu, Hervé Devaux and Philippe Pallu de la Barrière and was constructed in Dong Guan under McConaghy International.

McConaghy International is a joint-venture between the Australian builders McConaghy and the Chinese company Jin Li which specialises in the production of carbon parts. The two companies joined forces in China to create the first construction site of boats made from composite carbon. CHN-95 is the first boat to come out of their factory in Dong Guan.

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. On the left, Pierre Masse, shore team manager of China Team. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team

The hull of China Team's CHN-95 aboard the cargo ship to Valencia. Hong Kong, 21 November 2006. Photo copyright Chris Hill / China Team