"Ranger" completes refit

"Ranger" was built in 1937 at Bath Iron Works in Maine for the US tycoon Harold Vanderbilt, who defended the America's Cup with her in the same year. Vitters overhauled the engine compartment of J-5 in Zwartsluis in the Netherlands, installed a new hydraulic system and replaced all navigation and communication electronics as well as the teak deck. In addition, the rig underwent extensive maintenance, the hull was repainted and both the cockpit and steering position were renewed. Owner's representative Greg Sloat explains the reason for the performance upgrade and facelift: "Together with the Vitters team, we have brought 'Ranger' into the best possible shape to prepare her for the America's Cup 2021 in New Zealand. What I particularly liked was the teamwork between the shipyard and the crew. We were able to work in the evenings and on Saturdays and complete the refit on time thanks to Vitters."

After taking on water in front of the shipyard, "Ranger" travelled to Zaandam for the official launch and subsequent trial runs on the North Sea. The aim is to reach the Caribbean in the spring. J-5 has not (yet) entered for the St. Barth's Bucket, but wants to sail the J-Class regattas at the America's Cup in New Zealand in early 2021.