Last Sunday, 6th May, Gipsy Moth IV arrived in the America’s Cup Village in Valencia, drawing the attention of both spectators and competitors. The 54ft ketch, nearing the end of her global voyage, provided a fantastic viewing platform for the young crew from the Isle of Wight, who were able to watch some of the world’s most talented sailors from one of the world’s most famous yachts.

The crew members were given a guided tour of Victory Challenge’s base, thanks to Corum, the Gipsy Moth IV project’s official timekeeper who also supports the Swedish Team.

The young crew, Kate Scholes, David Williams and Mark Reed, all from the Isle of Wight, had a memorable experience and certainly had their eyes opened to the world of high level yacht racing. Kate said, ‘The boats we saw were amazing, some of them were huge. Watching the start of the race was the best part, it was spectacular’

The short stop in Valencia also provided the opportunity for members of Team New Zealand to visit the yacht and see how she has faired since her unscheduled stop-over at the Team New Zealand base in Auckland last summer. The team very generously donated facilities and staff to assist in repair work to enable her to continue with her global voyage. Grant Dalton, Managing Director of Team New Zealand was especially pleased to see the famous yacht that he generously helped to return to the water.

Gipsy Moth IV left the bright lights of the America’s Cup on course for Gibraltar, the final stop before she returns to Plymouth on Monday 28th May 2007, 40 years to the day since Sir Francis returned from his record breaking circumnavigation. Don’t miss her welcome home ceremony on the Bank Holiday Monday, it will be a day to remember!