Everything Is Big on a J Class Yacht: Crews, Sails, Accessories & Maintenance

Everything Is Big on a J Class Yacht: Crews, Sails, Accessories & Maintenance

Just 28 seconds separated the two super yachts, Ranger and Velsheda after the first two days of J Class racing at Newport June 15 and 16, with 3 races still to go. Ranger had eeked out a 1 second win the first day on corrected time, but had more breathing space the next day.

After the conclusion of every race, though, the crews of 35+ men and women on each boat have the large task of putting their mega-yacht to bed for the night. As these photos show, large is the operative word with everything from flags to fenders to rigging inspection set upon an amplified stage.

AA team meeting
After their 27-second win in the second race, the Ranger crew talks it over.

AE Fenders

The fenders for Ranger can match a Mini Cooper in size.

AD off loading
Hauling out 7,500 sq. feet of main and jib requires lifts and lads.

AC meet the press
Earl Williams (r), Ranger's professional skipper, and Tom Dodson (l), Velsheda's tactician, answer post-race questions.

AF flags

Sponsors such as Cox, Corum and livingsocial provide the funds to make the event happen.

AG Ranger shoes
Teak Deck Dictum: Abandon offending shoes all those who enter here.

AH off loading sails
Ranger's sails swing across to the dock.

AL Rigging check
A staple of closing shop each day is a rigging check.

AK Rigging check
High above the deck, this Ranger crewman appears comfortable on his swing.

AM Ranger shirt

Detail of the Ranger crew uniform.

AN Vel crew
Velsheda crew is active stem to stern with each a specific duty.

AQ Vel spin
Velsheda's spinaker, 10,000 sq. ft. of sail, fills the length of the dock.

AP Alastair Tait

WaterViewHome Network Publisher David Lott shares a moment with Alastair Tait, Ranger's captain.

Read all the posts in the J Class Regatta series:

Off to Newport & the J Class Regatta

Cruise to Newport & J Class Regatta Begins with a Run to (a Quiet) Cuttyhunk

Cruise to Newport/J Class Regatta: Sakonnet's Elegant Clubhouse & Warm Welcome

J Class Regatta at Newport Puts Big Power, Precision and Majesty on Display

In Newport for J Class Regatta, World's Most Beautiful Yachts Compete for Attention

Final Day of J Class Newport Regatta Has Moments of Drama & a Velsheda Win

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