Resources

For the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup in Naples in 2027, the AC75 Class Rules and Technical Regulations have been issued with a clear focus on cost containment. Teams will race with hulls from the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup (or modified AC36 versions from 2021). Strict criteria have been set for componentry, while cyclors have been eliminated in favour of stored energy, radically changing the yachts’ internal structure. Analysis showed hulls offered only minimal performance gains, barely noticeable in practice. The AC38 Protocol also introduces active cost-control measures across team budgets.

The Boating Industry Association’s (BIA) annual State of Industry Survey continues to provide insights into Australia’s marine sector. Now in its 15th year, the 2025 survey offers an opportunity to compare business conditions, workforce trends, and consumer behaviours against the data gathered in 2024. With 180 BIA member businesses contributing to this year’s results, the findings highlight both the resilience and evolving nature of an industry that remains central to Australia’s recreational lifestyle and economy.

52 Class Associations representing both state and national bodies across 35 unique classes provided their insights. This inaugural annual survey is essential for understanding how Australian Sailing can better support, connect, and grow our sailing community.

The Australian marine industry is facing one of its most significant reforms with the phase-out of firefighting foams containing PFAS, known as “forever chemicals.” From July 2025, AFFF foams with PFOS, PFOA, or PFHxS will be banned nationwide under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS). This means marinas and boatyards must replace PFAS-based systems with fluorine-free alternatives, ensure safe disposal of old equipment, and retrain crews in new firefighting methods. Acting early will help facilities stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect marine environments from long-term contamination.

The Boating Industry Association has launched the National Recreational Boating Statement at the new-format Sydney Boat Show, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, to an audience of government, stakeholder and industry representatives.

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (Team New Zealand) and the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd (Athena Racing) have signed the Protocol for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, to be held in Naples in summer 2027. The new Protocol establishes equal authority among all teams through a centralised partnership aimed at expanding opportunities, growing the sport globally, and creating long-term value. Entries open on 19 August 2025, with a Partnership Agreement ensuring all teams work together under a shared commercial structure for the event’s future benefit.

The second edition of the Retain Media Marine Market Brand Consideration Report, tracking search volume share across Australia’s leading marine brands as we head into the heart of the 2025 boating season.

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is a standout event on Tasmania’s vibrant events calendar. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hobart’s historic waterfront, this Festival is the State’s largest free event, drawing visitors from near and far.

The State Government has released the South Australian Recreational Boating Safety Strategy 2025-2030, to help combat irresponsible and dangerous behaviour across the state’s coastal and inland waters.

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) released the 2024 state of the industry data report revealing national turnover at $10.12 billion for 2023-24, a 5% increase on the previous year.