A replica of the famous J Class yacht, "Rainbow", has been launched at HJB Holland Jachtbouw, Holland. "Rainbow" won the 1934 America's Cup and the replica re-build of this original design by William Starling Burgess has been constructed for Chris Gongriep, famous for his race winning "Windrose of Amsterdam". She will sail under the number JH2.

Rainbow

Rainbow being lowered into the water - photo Werft



A large crowd of workers, guests, fans, and admirers gathered at Holland Jachtbouw under a sunny sky to see Florine Gongriep, the owner's daughter, smash the Champagne bottle over the keel before "Rainbow" was lowered gently into the water.

The clean superstructure features brushed stainless steel deck hardware and teak, white-caulked decks. She will have a carbon rig, and below deck the interior will represent 1930s styling, yet with all modern comforts for eight guests and eight crew.

This launch follows a long line of high calibre yachts emenating from the HJB shipyard, such as "Athos", "Calliope" and "Whisper".

"Rainbow" was built to defend the America's Cup against "Endeavour" in 1934. The first two races were tough for "Rainbow", yet she beat "Endeavour" in the last four races to win the series. In 1937 she was sold and then challenged as a contender for the Cup defence. Sadly for her, "Ranger" won and "Rainbow" was sold for scrap in 1940.

"Rainbow" is the seventh J on the water, with projects still to follow. J Class enthusiasts and fans of these iconic racing yachts can look forward to seeing her on the water this summer when she is expected to line up with five other famous J Class yachts at regattas in Falmouth and the Solent this summer.