12 Metre North Americans to Bring Classic Yacht Racing Back to Newport
The sleek lines of a bygone era will slice through Narragansett Bay this September as the 2025 12 Metre North American Championship returns to Newport, Rhode Island. From September 19–21, Ida Lewis Yacht Club will host the prestigious regatta in partnership with the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) Americas Fleet, drawing an elite roster of yachts and crews to the City-by-the-Sea.
The 12 Metre Class—once the powerhouse of the America’s Cup—will compete in Traditional and Classic divisions, offering a rare spectacle of craftsmanship and competition. “There’s nothing else like it,” said Jack LeFort, owner of Challenge XII. “The 12 Metre Class isn’t just beautiful—it offers world-class competition and programs. These boats are competitive, demanding, and steeped in history. Newport is the perfect place to race these boats.”
Spectators can catch the action from Fort Adams, Castle Hill, and Bannister’s Wharf, where the yachts will be docked between races. The dockside atmosphere is expected to be as lively as the racing itself, offering fans and photographers a close-up view of these thoroughbreds of the sea.
The 2025 North Americans will also launch a two-year series of major 12 Metre events in Newport, culminating with the 12 Metre Pre-Worlds (July 31–August 1, 2026) and the 12 Metre World Championship (August 5–9, 2026). Each promises a blend of fierce competition, international crews, and Newport’s unique brand of waterfront hospitality.
“The 12s are unlike any other boats,” said Jephtha Tausig, VP of the 12mR Americas Fleet. “They are a part of international sailing history. The 12 Metre class competed in the America’s Cup for 29 years—the longest period of any class in that race. There’s a finite number of them in the world, so it’s a privilege to sail one. They’re graceful, elegant thoroughbreds built to race—and you feel that every time you’re on board.”
For more on the International 12 Metre Association and the Americas Fleet, visit 12mrclass.com.
Plan Your Viewing: Newport’s Best Spots to Watch the 12 Metres
Fort Adams State Park — Positioned at the mouth of Narragansett Bay, Fort Adams offers sweeping views of the racecourse and spectacular photo ops. Arrive early to explore the historic fort and claim a prime spot along the seawall.
Castle Hill Lighthouse — Perched on the eastern side of the bay, Castle Hill is a favorite vantage point for seeing the fleet tack and gybe through classic Newport waters. The lighthouse grounds are public and easily accessible.
Bannister’s Wharf — The bustling heart of Newport’s waterfront, Bannister’s Wharf puts you close to the action ashore. Stop by local eateries, watch the yachts dock between races, and catch the lively regatta atmosphere.
Be sure to check the Ida Lewis Yacht Club website closer to race dates for official schedules and any public viewing events.
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