The Enterprise was the U.S. Defender in the 1934 America's Cup, known for its elegance and naval excellence. This handcrafted model captures its iconic design with precision and history. Built from high-quality red cedar, mahogany, and teak, the model is made with care and authenticity, free of plastic parts. The blue hull, accented with a white stripe, features a single mast and five white linen sails. Metal components, including nameplates and engravings, add to the authenticity, while four protective paint layers ensure lasting beauty. Perfect for display in homes or offices, this model makes an elegant gift for yacht enthusiasts or collectors. Its detailed craftsmanship reflects the spirit of the Enterprise and the prestigious America's Cup. Please Note: Your model is shipped with the mast and sails neatly folded for secure and efficient delivery. All rigging is pre-installed—simply raise the mast and adjust the sails for proper alignment, and your assembly will be complete in minutes. For a step-by-step guide, check out our YouTube assembly video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8gJ95oIaEk. Enjoy the rewarding challenge of bringing your model to life, much like sailors preparing their vessels for the open sea.
History
Harold S. Vanderbilt, the head of the New York Yacht Club Syndicate, commissioned British yacht designer Cox & King Burgess to design a challenger for the 1930 America’s Cup. The result was Enterprise, a groundbreaking yacht that would go on to become one of the most technologically advanced defenders in the competition's history. One of Burgess's key innovations for Enterprise was its rig design. The yacht featured a remarkably large boom, which came to be known as "Park Avenue." This design element was revolutionary because it allowed for the introduction of a curve into the foot of the mainsail, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency and increasing the yacht's speed under various wind conditions. Enterprise made her debut in the 1930 America’s Cup, where she proved her superiority. She was noted for her speed, stability, and cutting-edge design, which effectively incorporated modern technology and materials. Her success in the 1930 competition, where she triumphed over Sir Thomas Lipton's Shamrock V, solidified her place in yachting history. The yacht's design and performance marked a turning point in the evolution of America’s Cup yachts, setting a high standard for future contenders. Enterprise not only defended the cup for the New York Yacht Club but also demonstrated the impact of innovative design in competitive sailing, contributing to the sport's ongoing evolution.
