Crusader (now back to her original name; the “White” in “White Crusader” was added due to sponsorship from White Horse Whisky just before the 1987 America’s Cup) is an absolute icon of British racing history. Designed by Ian Howlett and built for the last America’s Cup in the 12-metre class, she benefited from years of development in the class and advanced aluminium technology and skills at the time.
Launched in January 1985 at the London Boat Show by HRH Princess Diana, Crusader was competitive, but ultimately the elimination series was won by Dennis Conner with Stars and Stripes, who went on to win the America’s Cup from the Australians.
In 1990, Richard Matthews, the founder and then owner of Oyster Yachts, acquired CRUSADER from Graham Walker, the principal of the British challenge. Retaining the original rig and deck gear, an engine was installed, guardrails were fitted, and the yacht was outfitted as a cruiser-racer for use in UK waters. CRUSADER completed four Fastnet races and proved to be very competitive racing under the IRC rating rule. Results included the Burnham Town Cup, twice winning the coveted Britannia Trophy and the Gold Cup during Cowes Week, as well as winning a number of offshore races, including an overall win in the RORC Cowes – Saint Malo race. Information courtesy of Berthon International.
2024 – Puig Vela Clasica
