Weekend Watch: A Day in the Life of Rainbow

　　Her design dates back to the 1930s, but she’s a thoroughly modern sailing superyacht. Rainbow is also undoubtedly one of the most-watched yachts in the world.

　　A big reason for that is her J Class heritage. The 131-foot (40-meter) Rainbow is a replica of the winner of the 1937 America’s Cup, bearing the same name. Unfortunately, the original racer no longer exists, scrapped in 1940. However, the original William Starling Burgess plans survived.

　　Launched in 2012 at the now-defunct Holland Jachtbouw yard, Rainbow has modern adaptations by Dykstra Naval Architects. One of them is a hybrid propulsion system. Her predecessor had no engine room, of course. Neither did she have carbon fiber rigging, or conveniences like air conditioning and relaxation areas outfitted in mahogany.

　　Purists may scoff at the changes, but today’s emphasis on cruising as much as racing makes them highly attractive. They’ll certainly be big reasons why potential buyers will want to see her for themselves. Rainbow is listed for sale via the central agency of Yachting Partners International for an asking price of €10.5 million (about $12.4 million at press time). She is undoubtedly both a cruiser and a racer. Indeed, she is adept at hosting private owner cruises and silver-service charter trips, plus competing in international regattas. On pleasure cruises, Rainbow accommodates up to eight guests, attended to by seven crew. During races, 25 to 28 hands bustle about on deck.

　　The video here emphasizes her softer side. Oddly enough, it has no sound. It could be an oversight, considering dramatic orchestral flourishes often accompany footage of yachts coursing through seas. But, given her genteel looks, we think Rainbow actually commands your attention a little more here. You really concentrate on her looks and highlights, instead of being a bit more of a passive observer.