Adapted from article by: James Scanlon
The New York Yacht Club is replacing the Swan 42 with the sleeker, race oriented IC37 designed by Mark Mills.
Since 2007 NYYC has hosted four Invitational Cups representing 43 yacht clubs and 21 countries for Swan 42 racing. Designed by German Frer’s and built by Nautor’s Swan, the NYYC 42 was originally launched in 2006. A resounding success, 35 boats were sold within the first 6 months, 25 to NYYC members. The dynamic boat was intended to be used not only local cruising but also offshore sailing and racing.
As the fleet of Swans dispersed, NYYC decided to commission the IC37 to ensure continued Corinthian competition. Since crew cannot be paid professionals, the IC37’s were designed to be sailed by a wide spectrum of ability, experience and athleticism. Twenty new boats will be ready for 2019, after the final event of Swan 42’s at this September’s Invitational cup.
The IC37 and GORI Race Propeller
The IC37 has a 12’ beam, a 6’ retractable bowsprit, a carbon rig, 900 sf upwind sail area and 2000 sf downwind. The hull and rig combined is 8000 pounds, half of which is in the eight foot bulb keel. Those design statistics translate to an IRC rating of approximately 1.180 and an ORC rating of 543.12. The hull will be outfitted GORI folding propellers. Given the uncompromising attention to performance and the overall feel of the boat, the GORI saildrives were chosen. GORI folding propellers reduce drag to zero, resulting in boat speed gains, especially in higher performance boats like the IC37. Furthermore, the unobstructed flow to the rudder allowed by the GORI improves the hydrodynamic performance of the foil. This allows for improved upwind angles and handling.
The first complete IC37 arrived at New England Boatworks April 27. She was sailed in conditions ranging from 6 to twenty knots by Harry Melges, Kenny Read and designer Mark Mills. The trial sails generated enthusiastic feedback from all aboard, garnering excitement for the class and the future of the event.
Images courtesy of Melges IC37 Facebook Page, and IC37 Website.