France II 12 F 2

The Second French 12 Metre Challenger

France II (F-2) is a 12 Metre Class yacht built in 1977 by the Association Française pour la Coupe de l’America (AFCA) for France’s second attempt at the America’s Cup. Designed by noted naval architect André Mauric, she followed the original France (F-1)—the first yacht to represent France in the Cup in 1970.

Built for Performance

Constructed to meet the demands of the Third Rule 12 Metre formula, France II was intended to improve upon the design of her predecessor, incorporating subtle advancements in hull shape, rigging, and trim. She was expected to lead France’s 1977 challenge, but during early trials, her performance was disappointing.

As a result, AFCA made the strategic decision to return to the more proven France (F-1) to lead the challenge. France II did not advance to the final challenger selection series.

Not to Be Confused

France II (F-2) is sometimes confused with a later, unbuilt “France II project”—a proposed aluminum 12 Metre also associated with AFCA, but never constructed. The yacht France II (F-2), by contrast, was fully built and campaigned briefly in the late 1970s.

A New Life

Though she never competed in an America’s Cup final, France II (F-2) remains an important chapter in French 12 Metre history. Today, she is no longer actively racing and is reportedly sailing as a cruising yacht along the southern coast of France, having been refitted for comfort and leisure use.