In international yachting, competitors push the limits of technology to gain an edge over their rivals. But success and disaster can be just moments away from each other.

The winning edge

The America’s Cup is yachting’s top competition and a focal point for yacht design and innovation. Vast amounts of time, expertise and money go into creating the boat that will win the prize.

A fine line

America’s Cup designers have to walk a fine line between weight-saving and strength to get the fastest boats. The lighter the materials above the waterline, the faster the boat will be – hence the use of carbon fibre. But attached to the super-light hull is a 20-tonne keel. Added to that are the loads from wind playing on the rig and sails, sometimes in extreme conditions. Designers push safety and reliability margins to the limit to create structures that can work with these forces – and go fast and finish in front!

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Hitting the Limits

Watch the film to see how boats and gear can fail in America’s Cup yachting’s quest for speed.

Runs for 6:30 minutes