First saltwater sail for Alinghi 5

[Source: Alinghi] Alinghi 5 docked out of its temporary base in Genoa, Italy, this afternoon for its first hours of saltwater sailing. Conditions for the first outing were ideal: a light southwesterly breeze and flat seas. “Today was the first day in saltwater for Alinghi 5 and even though conditions were light; everything was good. We are happy to be in Italy for this period of our training programme; it's a place where everyone would like to live! We have received a great welcome from Genoa and huge support from the Amico yard and the Yacht Club Italiano and we look forward to some more sailing next Monday with a little more breeze,” said team skipper Brad Butterworth.

The 33rd America's Cup Defender transported its giant catamaran, the first step in the development process towards the America's Cup Match in February 2010, by helicopter from its base on Lake Geneva to the north Mediterranean port on 7 August. Training will continue in Genoa before the boat is transported to the 33rd America's Cup Venue in Ras al-Khaimah, UAE.

Alinghi 5 sails for the first time on sea water. Genoa, 15 August 2009. Photo copyright Guido Trombetta / Alinghi

Brad Butterworth working on the sails. Genoa, 15 August 2009. Photo copyright Guido Trombetta / Alinghi