Holland Jachtbouw Launch New J Class 'Rainbow'

A new addition to the renowned J Class fleet was launched during the week at the Dutch yard Holland Jachtbouw. Rainbow is 40m (131ft) and is a replica of the famed 1934 America's Cup Winner Rainbow. The J Class fleet of yachts include some of the most iconic and beautiful yachts on the water today. The fleet includes such yachts as Ranger, Velsheda and Hanuman just to name a few and these yachts will be taking part in the J Class Regatta in June and July of this year in Cowes, England.

Rainbow has taken over two years to build compared to her predecessor which was completed in 100 days. This does not mean that the yard is slower it is just a reflection of the incredible craftsmanship, perfection and sophistication that you find in modern yacht building. Another reason that the original only took 100 days is that it was empty inside for racing purposes and didn't have the luxurious interior of the current Rainbow (which all J Class yacht have to have to be compliant with JCA rules).

One of Rainbow's special features that stands her apart from the other J Class yachts is her hybrid propulsion system. This system was developed between Holland Jachtbouw and WhisperPower especially for this project. Rainbow can be operated entirely on her Hy-Store Li-ion batteries, including sailing, navigation and hotel load. This also meets the owner’s request for silent periods onboard, without generators running, from 11 pm to 7 am. The batteries can also be charged while sailing without losing more than 1.5 kts of speed. A key benefit of this system is that it will reduce the carbon footprint by using 30 percent less fuel.

Her rig includes a Southern Spars carbon mast, boom and spinnaker pole, continuous carbon fibre rigging, North Sails 3Di racing sails and Lewmar high-speed hydraulic winches. Her interior was designed by Dutch designers deVosdeVries, which features raised and fielded mahogany panelling with art deco details. She will be able to accommodate up to 8 guests in the owner’s stateroom which is aft and 2 ensuite twin guest cabins, each with a Pullman berth.

She will be undergoing sea trials in March before she sets off to the North Sea with her crew and professional racing team for 7 days of extensive training. After her summer of J Class racing she will head to the Monaco Yacht Show where she can be viewed by the public.