Yacht description
A rare opportunity to acquire Italia (ITA-7), an authentic aluminium International 12-Metre class yacht built by Baglietto in 1985 as part of Italy’s challenge for the 1987 America’s Cup in Fremantle, Australia. Representing a defining era in Grand Prix 12m yacht racing, this yacht combines pedigree, performance, and historical significance in one compelling package.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Italia (ITA-7), official 1987 America’s Cup challenger
- Built by the renowned Italian shipyard Baglietto
- Aluminium hull & deck construction
- Commissioned by the Consorzio Italia syndicate
- Represented by Yacht Club Italiano
- Sponsored by Gucci
- Currently registered within the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) class registry
- No current Measurement Certificate in place, but eligible for re-certification under 12-Metre class rules
- Suitable for international 12m regattas and historical classic yacht events
- Full sail and spares inventory included
- Significant collector and campaign potential
HISTORY & PEDIGREE
Constructed during the final and most technologically advanced phase of the 12-Metre rule, Italia was commissioned by the Consorzio Italia syndicate, with sponsorship funding from Gucci, as Italy’s official challenger for the 1987 America's Cup in Fremantle, hence constructed to the rigorous scantlings required for high-wind Indian Ocean racing.
Designed by the Giorgetti & Magrini studio and backed by high-profile Italian sponsorship, the campaign represented a major national effort during the closing chapter of the 12-Metre era. Italia competed in the Louis Vuitton Cup, finishing 7th overall, and stands today as a tangible example of late-stage 12m development—where design refinement, materials, and sail optimisation reached their peak before the transition to the International America’s Cup Class (IACC).
The yacht remains an important artefact of Italian America’s Cup history and a rare surviving example of this iconic class.
REGISTRATION & CERTIFICATION
Italia is currently listed within the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) class registry. A valid Measurement Certificate is not currently in place and would be required for active class racing compliance. However the yacht is understood to be eligible for re-measurement and certification under current 12-Metre class rules, subject to standard inspection and verification.
CONDITION
Italia is currently stored ashore on a yard cradle, rig down, having recently had the hull re-faired and primed, so very much a blank canvas for the next owner to stamp their mark and hence sold as seen. The rig was closely inspected on removal by specialist on-site team with no significant issues identified.
Latterly, the renowned Metre Class designer Ian Howlett was commissioned to redesign both rudder and winged keel, which are in-situ today.
A full sail and spares inventory is included in the sale. The successful purchaser will be required to make arrangements for removal or shipping container storage. Continued storage at the current location is also entirely possible, with fully experienced marine engineering and paint shop services available on site.
The yacht presents an excellent platform for:
- Competitive participation in 12-Metre regattas (post re-certification)
- Restoration to concours/show condition
- Private ownership as a historically significant sailing yacht
