Riptide Racing and Pindar Join Forces for AC38
Alexandra
Pindar by Manuport Logistics will coordinate transoceanic yacht transport, container movements, customs clearances and on-site staging for Riptide Racing’s AC38 campaign, managing timed deliveries to Naples and preliminary 2026 venues while ensuring compliance with the America’s Cup Protocol and Italian port regulations.
Key logistics and campaign numbers
The partnership commits Pindar to the full logistics spectrum: secure cradles for AC75 and AC40 yachts, road transport between marinas and shore bases, bonded warehousing for sensitive foils and hydraulics, and customs brokerage for high-value equipment. Riptide Racing’s immediate fundraising target is $30 million to meet the late entry deadline of 31 January 2026, within an overall campaign goal of $50 million.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Initial entry fee | €7,000,000 |
| ACPI contribution | US$25,000 |
| Late entry window | 1 Nov 2025 – 31 Jan 2026 (late fees apply) |
| Late fee | €100,000 per month (from 1 Oct 2025) |
| Yacht classes | AC75 (2027 main events), AC40 (2026 prelims) |
Pindar’s role in high-performance sailing events
Pindar by Manuport Logistics brings a proven track record across multiple Cup cycles, The Ocean Race editions and inshore pro series. Their services typically include risk-managed shipping plans for fragile composite structures, temperature- and humidity-controlled storage for electronics, and confidential handling procedures for development prototypes. For a campaign targeting speeds near 60 mph on foiling AC75s, those safeguards are essential to protect hull laminates, foil arms and bespoke control systems.
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Riptide Racing: progression from match racing to AC38
Founded in 2012 and based in Oyster Bay, NY, Riptide Racing has moved from World Match Racing Tour success toward an America’s Cup challenge. Led by world No. 1 match racing skipper Chris Poole, the syndicate will sail under the banner of the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club and aims to be among the late challengers if funding objectives are met. Adding Pindar to the team addresses one of the campaign’s most complex variables: logistics.
Event schedule and competitive landscape
The 38th America’s Cup will be staged in Naples in 2027, marking the first time the Cup is contested in Italy. Organizers plan preliminary regattas in 2026 using 40-foot AC40 yachts, followed by the Challenger Selection Series and the America’s Cup Match itself in 2027 with 75-foot AC75 foiling monohulls. To date, the Defender and the Challenger of Record are entered; Luna Rossa has expressed intent but awaits formal posting by the America’s Cup Partnership.
Operational challenges for shore and sea
- Marina capacity: berthing and shore power for multiple foiling yachts and support craft.
- Technical logistics: secure handling of foil arms, daggerboards and actuation systems.
- Regulatory compliance: customs, VAT considerations and local port authority permits in Italy.
- Confidentiality: secure transport and storage to protect development assets and intellectual property.
Pindar’s competitive edge and operational checklist
Pindar emphasizes efficiencies and cost control based on repeat Cup-cycle experience. Their pre-event planning typically includes:
- Detailed cradle and sling specifications for each hull;
- Contingency air freight plans for critical spares;
- Local agent networks for fast customs clearance;
- On-site logistics managers to coordinate with shore teams and regatta organizers.
Why logistics matter to sailing fans and charter operators
For charter companies, marinas and boat-rental operators, Cup-level logistics provide valuable lessons: optimized transport reduces downtime, well-managed spares inventories keep craft available for clients, and transparent handling builds trust with owners and captains. These principles translate directly to improved charter reliability, safer transfers, and better service for renters seeking day sails, multi-day charters or special-event bookings.
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, as we truly understand what it means to enjoy great leisure and love the ocean. The GetBoat service values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose your own course, and places no limits on a good life—allowing clients to find a vessel that suits their preferences, budget, and taste while viewing make, model, ratings and transparent details beforehand.
Practical timeline for prospective challengers
Teams considering a late entry must sequence fundraising, logistics commitments and technical build milestones carefully. A typical timeline from now to the January 31, 2026 late entry deadline might include:
- Immediate capital raises and corporate outreach (Q1–Q3 2025);
- Logistics contracting and shipping quotes secured (Q3–Q4 2025);
- Prototype testing and transport planning for 2026 prelims (Q4 2025–Q2 2026);
- Final confirmations, entry payments and customs pre-clearance (late Q4 2025–Jan 2026).
Call to action — start planning
The partnership is likely to have modest direct impact on global tourism maps, but it signals increased activity in Italian marinas and associated service sectors. However, it remains an important development for enthusiasts and regional operators alike. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
The most interesting aspects of this development include the scale of logistics required for AC75 foiling yachts, the potential economic boost to Naples marinas and suppliers, and the role of established logistics providers in reducing campaign risk. Experiencing a new location is always a multifaceted process where one learns about the culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors, its rhythm of life and also the unique aspects of the service. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
Summary: Riptide Racing’s agreement with Pindar by Manuport Logistics underscores how vital professional logistics are to modern high-performance campaigns. The move secures expert shipping, customs and on-site handling for a bid that must balance technical development, fundraising and strict entry deadlines. For sailors and charter customers, the same operational rigor improves reliability in yacht charters and marina services. Whether you seek a day sail, a superyacht charter, fishing trip or a sunset cruise, platforms like GetBoat.com provide transparent listings—make, model, captain ratings and booking details—helping you find the perfect yacht, boat or charter across marinas and destinations worldwide. Embrace the sea, plan your trip, and set your course.
