October 21, 2019: The J-Class Ranger is currently undergoing a refit at Vitters Shipyard in the Netherlands. This includes the installation of a new AMCS system which is being supplied by Piet Brouwer’s sister company Marble Automation.
Launched by the Danish Yachts yard in 2004, Ranger was built as a replica of the eponymous yacht which won the America’s Cup in 1937. The original Ranger stayed long in the popular memory as that was the last year that the famous regatta was held under its original Universal Rule format.
Unlike most other Js, the new Ranger has a steel hull that her owner says makes her extra strong and sturdy. This opinion is borne out by experience – Ranger has not suffered any damage during the many regattas in which she has competed over the last 15 years. At the same time, the Nida-core interior and carbon fibre doghouse have kept her relatively lightweight. Combined with her handicap class, this has ensured that Ranger always delivers an excellent performance.
The captain had indicated his preference for an AMCS from Marble Automation before the refit began. The company started work on the system earlier this year and the schedule is currently reaching the commissioning phase. The team at Marble Automation are proud to have this opportunity to contribute to the improvement of such a stunning classic sailing yacht.