Pictures of the prototype America’s Cup class 45 footer and it’s wing as she’s prepared for launch

Our correspondent in New Zealand, Rebecca Hayter described her first sight of the wing as, ‘one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. If sailmakers had invented butterflies, this is what they would have looked like.’

It’s easy to see why.

Rebecca will be reporting on the launching of a new era for the America’s Cup in the next few days, but in the meantime, here’s a few pictures of a new class that is set to cause a stir.

Want to know the latest movers, shakers, venues and dates? Check our guide to the 34th America’s Cup which we will keep updated as the latest news, rumours and comments come in.

Who’s Up for the Cup?

www.yachting-world.com/AC34teams