American Magic, the U.S. challenger for the 36th and 37th America’s Cup, and Nautor Swan, a leading yacht design and manufacturing company, have announced plans to form a joint venture. The partnership aims to enhance competitive sailing in the United States and promote growth within the marine industry.The collaboration will initially focus on the ClubSwan 28 project, which includes the development of a new regatta series and a fleet of ClubSwan 28 yachts. These regattas are expected to begin in late 2025 and will be hosted in Pensacola and other locations along the U.S. East Coast. The project seeks to provide a high-performance competitive platform while expanding the presence of Nautor Swan yachts in the U.S. market.American Magic will contribute its expertise in advanced engineering and boat building, while Nautor Swan will bring its renowned yacht design and manufacturing capabilities. The partnership also includes plans to integrate shared services for the ClubSwan 28 fleet, reducing the need for teams to travel with extensive support crews."This joint venture marks a significant step in American Magic’s mission to lead sailing in the United States into a new era of innovation and competition," said Terry Hutchinson, President of Sailing Operations at American Magic. Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan, added, "Reenergizing sailing in America is our challenge, both commercially and technologically."The partnership will extend beyond the ClubSwan 28 project, with plans to promote the sales and servicing of Nautor Swan yachts in the U.S. and explore the potential for building yachts at American Magic’s facility in Pensacola. Tyson Lamond, Chief Operations Officer at American Magic, emphasized the importance of this infrastructure, noting the development of a high-performance sailing center as a hub for advanced boat design and regatta hosting.Federico Michetti, Head of Sport Activities at Nautor Swan, expressed confidence in the project, citing a long history of sailing innovation in the United States and its potential to bring new energy to the sport.The joint venture aims to strengthen both companies' leadership positions in marine innovation and competitive sailing while fostering industry growth in the United States.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. American Magic is redefining high-performance sailing in the United States with a mission to elevate the sport and inspire broader participation. Established in 2017, the team has challenged for the 36th and 37th America’s Cup and continues to drive innovation and excellence in competitive sailing. Based in Pensacola, Florida, American Magic is developing a state-of-the-art sailing center that will serve as a hub for advanced boat design, talent development, and regatta hosting, reinforcing its commitment to shaping the future of sailing in America.Credits: Nautor Swan
January 27, 2025