The RC 44 was the star of the show in Portofino between May 11-14, alongside the Zegna Trophy. Potential owners had the opportunity to test-sail the boat, and to get first hand advice from Russell Coutts. The public and media curiosity confirm that the interest for this new class is growing fast.

The RC 44 yacht and Class Association benefited from a good promotion in Portofino, as the boat got displayed in front of the Yacht Club Italia before sailing during three days alongside the Zegna Trophy regatta.

This general display was enhanced by Russell taking part to the final of the BMW match race (a match between young Italian teams), and sailing the Zegna Trophy on board the Swan 601 Artemis.

The interest for the RC 44 Class and yachts is growing fast. Hundreds of people have had the opportunity to have a close look at Russell Coutts and Andrej Justin’s new design, whilst those directly interested by the class have been taken on board for a test sail.

“Straight after the event, we fitted the boat with a heavier bulb (240kgs) and a lighter mast (25kgs), which is the production standard”, explains Russell. “The biggest difference is acceleration out of tacks and the extra stability has made the boat easier to keep on the numbers upwind.”