The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) is proud to announce its participation in the 2025 Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) Admiral’s Cup, one of the most celebrated team racing events in international yachting. Representing the RNZYS will be an exceptional team of Callisto, a Custom Botin IRC 42 owned by James Murray, and Caro, a Custom Botin IRC 52 owned by Max Klink.

James Murray’s Callisto
© Cowes Week / Paul Wyeth

Max Klink’s Caro
© Rolex Fastnet Race / Luca Butto

The Admiral’s Cup, organized by the RORC, holds a storied history as the “unofficial world championship of offshore racing.” Established in 1957, the event quickly gained prominence, attracting elite yachts and crews from around the globe. Traditionally raced in British waters, the Admiral’s Cup challenges teams of three yachts from each country to compete across a mix of inshore and offshore races. Its unique team-based scoring format makes it a pinnacle test of skill, strategy, and seamanship.

In 2025, the competition returns with a revitalized two-boat team format, reflecting the evolution of the sport while preserving its heritage. RNZYS is excited to contribute to this new chapter with a formidable pairing of vessels and crews as our representative team:

  • Callisto (Custom Botin IRC 42) – Owned by James Murray, Callisto is a high-performance yacht designed for precision and speed in the competitive IRC rating rule. With its cutting-edge design and experienced crew, the boat is poised to excel in both inshore and offshore courses.
  • Caro (Custom Botin IRC 52) – Owned by Max Klink, Caro is a powerhouse on the water, blending superior craftsmanship with advanced technology. The yacht has already demonstrated its prowess on the international racing circuit including multiple Sydney to Hobarts, and its inclusion in the RNZYS team reinforces New Zealand’s reputation for world-class sailing.

“We are thrilled to send Callisto and Caro to the Admiral’s Cup under the RNZYS banner,” said Gillian Williams, Commodore of RNZYS. “This event is a hallmark of international sailing, and we are confident that our team’s skill and determination will serve them well on the racetrack and make our members proud.”

New Zealand has a rich legacy in competitive sailing, and RNZYS is no stranger to success on the global stage. As the home of the America’s Cup-winning Emirates Team New Zealand, RNZYS remains committed to promoting excellence in all forms of sailing.

The 2025 RORC Admiral’s Cup will take place from 17th July to 1st August bringing together the world’s best sailors for a thrilling showcase of teamwork, strategy, and endurance. RNZYS is honoured to participate and looks forward to vying for victory against an elite field.