Courageous — Legendary 12 Metre America’s Cup Winner Now for Sale

The famous 12 Metre yacht Courageous, one of only three boats to have won the America’s Cup twice, is being offered for sale. Launched in 1974, Courageous earned its place in sailing history by claiming the Auld Mug in both 1974 and 1977. This classic racing yacht combines historical significance with a level of restoration and updating that makes her attractive to collectors and active syndicates alike.

Design, Construction and Racing Pedigree

Courageous was designed by the noted naval architecture firm Sparkman & Stephens and built at the Minneford Yacht Yard. She holds the distinction of being the first 12 Metre constructed in aluminum, a notable innovation for the class at the time. That construction, coupled with a refined Sparkman & Stephens hull and appendage design, helped her perform at the highest level during America’s Cup campaigns.

Her crew lists read like a who’s who of American yacht racing. In the 1974 Cup campaign she was skippered by Ted Hood with Dennis Conner serving in the afterguard. In 1977, the yacht was helmed by Ted Turner—often referred to by fans and the media as “Captain Outrageous” or the “Mouth of the South”—with Gary Jobson as tactician. These campaigns cemented Courageous as one of the iconic racing yachts of the era.

Ownership, Preservation and Updates

In 1997 Courageous was donated to the Museum of Yachting in Newport. The vessel later became part of the collection managed by the International Yacht Restoration School, the current owner. Since her donation she has been raced under syndicated ownership and maintained to a high standard.

The yacht has been restored to near-original condition while receiving practical, performance-oriented upgrades. Notable updates include a modern mast and a sail wardrobe refreshed in 2019. The running rigging has been upgraded and a Harken winch package was installed, improving reliability and handling without compromising the classic profile of the boat. The asking price for this historically significant and actively campaigned 12 Metre is $445,000.

Performance and Current Condition

While Courageous was famously fast during her prime, she remains competitive today. At a recent North American Championship she demonstrated that pedigree by winning five of six races. That continued success indicates careful maintenance and appropriate upgrades that preserve her speed and handling characteristics.

For serious buyers, Courageous represents more than a museum piece. She is a proven racer with a living history, suitable for restoration-minded enthusiasts who want a showpiece, or for syndicates that intend to race in classic 12 Metre events and regattas. The combination of original design integrity and modern, serviceable equipment makes her a versatile proposition.

Why Courageous Matters

Courageous carries both competitive and cultural value. As one of only three yachts to capture the America’s Cup twice, she occupies a rare place in yachting lore. Her aluminum construction marked a turning point for the 12 Metre class, and the roster of prominent sailors who campaigned her adds to her provenance. Whether viewed as an investment, a restoration project, or an active campaign boat, Courageous offers a tangible connection to a defining era of competitive sailing.

Summary

In short, Courageous is a historic, race-proven 12 Metre with documented America’s Cup victories, solid custodial care by museum and restoration organizations, and selective modern upgrades that preserve her competitiveness. Priced at $445,000, she represents a rare opportunity to own a storied piece of sailing history that remains capable on the racecourse.