Preserve the Past
12 Meters are the most iconic and important yachts in American yachting history.
The most important stories were created during the America’s Cup years from 1958 to 1987. These are often remembered as a Golden Age of Yacht Racing, where design innovation, tactical skill, and international rivalry culminated in highly competitive and media-attractive events.
Our mission today is to study and celebrate this history. We also need to catalog as much of the living history as possible before it disappears. Then we can help bring these stories back to life and inspire the next generation of sailors.
One of the Founding Principles of the National 12 Meter Club is to help preserve the past. To achieve this, the club encourages all members to learn as much as possible about 12 Meter history.
Origin of the 12 Meters
12 Meters came into existence with the International Rule of 1907 which created a series of formulas for yachts from different countries to race against each other. were built in 1907. The formula established the 15, 12, 10, 8 & 6 Meter classes. The 12 Meter class was used in the Olympic Games of 1908, 1912 and 1920.
America's Cup Years
12 Meters were the yachts used for the America's Cup from 1958 to 1987. This period saw significant change in technology, international participation, and global stature of the America’s Cup. Learn about each America’s Cup competition and all of the 12 Meters which participated. This was a pinnacle of American yachting achievement.
After the Cup
After the America's Cup, 12 Meters kept racing thanks to visionary group of owners who loved the boats and their history. Today, 12 Meters still capture the hearts and minds of sailors for their iconic beauty and power. Owning and racing a 12 Meter is a complex undertaking and is still one of the most exclusive pursuits in the world of sailing.