Model origin: the American J Class of the 1930s
Rainbow follows in the footsteps of the J Class yachts designed for the America's Cup between the wars. The original unit, designed by William Starling Burgess and launched in 1934, represented the ambitions of the New York Yacht Club in the face of the British challenge. The current model is based on the original design, updated by Dykstra Naval Architects, who specialize in restoring classic lines combined with modern naval architecture.
Contemporary construction and technical updates
The model rebuilt in 2012 retains the silhouette and proportions characteristic of the J Class, while adopting a modern aluminum hull, optimized for hydrodynamics and featuring a redesigned deck layout. Unlike the 1934 original, built in wood, the current version benefits from the integration of composite materials such as carbon for the mast, boom and standing rigging. These choices significantly reduce the weight up top and improve the yacht's stability and responsiveness in regattas.
A partial refit was carried out between 2020 and 2023. This refit includes modernization of the propulsion system, interior fittings and navigation systems, without altering the boat's visual identity.
Hybrid propulsion system: discreet and functional
Rainbow incorporates a hybrid propulsion system developed with WhisperPower. This system combines a 335 kW combustion engine with a silent electric motor. When cruising, the boat can sail for several hours in 100% electric mode, with recharging possible via the propeller en route. The aim of this configuration is to limit noise and pollutant emissions on board, while guaranteeing sufficient autonomy for port maneuvers or approaches to sensitive anchorages.
This technological choice marks a clear break with the 1934 version, which had no integrated propulsion auxiliaries and required the assistance of tugs in port.
Interior fittings and capacity
The interior design, entrusted to the deVosdeVries Design studio, moves away from the minimalism of the original racing yachts. The modern Rainbow offers a comfortable live-aboard version, suitable for private cruising with six to eight passengers, and an equivalent crew. The interior, with its mahogany panelling and light oak floors, is inspired by the stylistic elements of the Art Deco era. The addition of modern air-conditioning, water treatment and on-board electronics ensures comfort on board.
Sailing performance: from prestige to competitiveness
In terms of performance, Rainbow boasts an upwind sail area of 911 m², supported by an elongated hull (39.89 m overall, 26.87 m at the waterline). Modern materials keep displacement down to 166.9 tons, for smooth, efficient downwind and upwind sailing. The spinnaker spans 928 m². These figures place Rainbow in an intermediate category between classic racing yachts and cruising superyachts.
The boat has made a name for itself on several occasions in regattas such as the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup (2nd in 2013 and 2014), demonstrating that the J Class design, though dated, retains its competitive potential, especially in classic fleets.
Market position and model rarity
With only six modern J Class replicas launched since 2003 (Ranger, Hanuman, Lionheart, Topaz, Svea and Rainbow), this type of unit remains extremely rare on the international market. Rainbow also benefits from certified hybrid propulsion, a racing history and rigorous documented maintenance.
It is currently presented by Bernard Gallay Yacht Brokerage in Palma de Mallorca, at a price of 9.95 million euros incl. VAT . The unit is aimed at an owner looking for an iconic yacht, capable of sailing on the most beautiful stretches of water, both in classic regattas and private cruising.
