Nefertiti US 19
History of Nefertiti US 19
Year: 1962
Location: Newport, RI
Owner: Jack Klinck
Nefertiti (US-19) is a distinguished 12 Meter class yacht, celebrated for her role in the America’s Cup challenges of the early 1960s. Designed by the renowned naval architect Ted Hood, known for his innovative approach to yacht design, and built by Minneford Yacht Yard in 1962, Nefertiti was a testament to American design and craftsmanship aimed at capturing the highest honors in yacht racing.
Design and Construction
Nefertiti was designed at a time when the America’s Cup was transitioning into a highly technical competition, with designers and builders pushing the boundaries of materials, hull shapes, and sail configurations to achieve optimal performance. Ted Hood, leveraging his extensive experience in sailmaking and yacht design, created Nefertiti with an emphasis on speed, agility, and responsiveness, qualities that would be crucial in the defender selection trials and, potentially, the America’s Cup itself.
The 1958 America’s Cup Campaign
Nefertiti’s entry into the America’s Cup scene came in 1962, a year marked by intense competition among American yachts vying to defend the cup against the Australian challenger, Gretel. Nefertiti participated in the defender trials, showcasing her competitive edge and the expertise of her crew. Despite her strong performance, she was ultimately not selected as the defender, with the honor going to Weatherly, which went on to successfully defend the Cup.
Racing Career amd Legacy
Although Nefertiti did not secure the role of defender in the America’s Cup, her racing career continued to be marked by notable performances in regattas and yacht racing events. Under various ownerships, she remained a competitive force in the 12 Meter class, reflecting the enduring design and construction quality that characterized her launch.
Nefertiti’s legacy in America’s Cup history is one of innovation and competition. She embodied the spirit of an era in which yacht design and racing tactics were rapidly evolving, contributing to the rich tapestry of 12 Meter class racing. Her name, evocative of the ancient Egyptian queen known for her beauty and power, aptly symbolized the yacht’s grace on the water and competitive prowess.
Legacy and Preservation
Like many historic 12 Meter yachts, Nefertiti has been the subject of preservation efforts to maintain her condition and allow her to continue sailing. These efforts ensure that yachts like Nefertiti can be appreciated by future generations, not only as competitive racing vessels but also as symbols of maritime heritage and the evolution of yacht design.
Today, Nefertiti remains an iconic figure in the world of classic yachting, participating in vintage yacht regattas and serving as a living testament to the golden age of America’s Cup competition. Her story is a reminder of the passion, innovation, and competitive spirit that drive the sport of sailing and the enduring legacy of the 12 Meter class.
