Work on the AC45 catamarans, which the Cup teams will use to race in the 2011 America’s Cup World Series events, is continuing at pace in Warkworth, New Zealand.

Construction of the first AC45 catamaran. Warkworth, 17 December 2010. Photo copyright Ivor Wilkins America's Cup

Dubbed the ‘little sister with attitude’ in comparison to the enormous AC72 cats the teams will race in the Louis Vuitton Cup and America’s Cup, the first AC45 is scheduled to be launched in the new year, with others rolling off the assembly quickly thereafter. Entered competitors will have a chance to participate in sea trials following the initial launch.

Construction of the first AC45 catamaran. Warkworth, Photo copyright Ivor Wilkins America's Cup

After the 2011 season, the AC45s will be used in the Youth America’s Cup series, developing the next generation of Cup sailors.

Construction of the first AC45 catamaran. Warkworth, NZ Photo Credit Ivor Wilkins America's Cup