Kookaburra II 12 KA 12

Precision, Pedigree, and Performance

A Contender from the Golden Era of the America's Cup

Kookaburra II (KA-12) stands as one of the most advanced and elegant 12 Metre yachts of her time. Built under the International Third Rule for the 1987 America’s Cup in Perth, Australia, she was the second of three 12mRs (plus one unbuilt design) created by the Taskforce ’87 America’s Cup Defence syndicate, led by Iain Murray and funded by Kevin Parry.

Designed by John Swarbrick in collaboration with Iain Murray, with structural support from Derek Clark and keel expertise from Alan Payne, Kookaburra II emerged from one of the most extensive model-testing campaigns ever undertaken in the class. Her hull lines were finalized after a comprehensive evaluation of 24 designs and a dozen tank-tested models at the NSMB in Wageningen.

Technological Innovation and Performance

Built in 1985 at the Parry Shipyard using aluminum alloy, Kookaburra II featured several breakthrough technologies for her time:

  • Computerized performance monitoring systems installed below deck in waterproof plexiglass cases

  • Real-time analytics transmitted to support boats and a centralized mainframe at Taskforce headquarters

  • A hull shape inspired by Australia II but refined for stability and ease of handling

  • More freeboard and longer overhangs than traditional Twelves, resulting in a sleeker, more powerful aesthetic

Originally designed prior to Kookaburra I, KA-12 was only constructed after the decision was made to campaign a second boat. Though less close-winded than K-1, she proved more stable and balanced, and she performed impressively in early trials.

In the 1987 Defender Series, Kookaburra II finished a respectable third, behind Kookaburra III and Australia IV.

Racing History and Evolution

Following the America’s Cup campaign, KA-12 continued to compete on the international stage:

  • 1987 – Porto Cervo (ITA): Semifinalist at the 12mR World Championship

  • 1988 – Luleå (Sweden): Entered as Nordstjernan, finished eighth

  • 1990s: Competed under various owners

  • 2000–present: Acquired by Patrizio Bertelli, CEO of Prada Group and prominent yachtsman

A Modern Champion

Since 2000, Kookaburra II has been meticulously maintained and actively raced by Ulisse Srl, under Bertelli’s ownership, and homeported in Rosignano Solvay, Italy. She continues to evolve, refined by expert hands and elite crew leadership.

Skippered by Olympic champion Torben Grael, KA-12 made a powerful return in 2024, winning:

  • The 12 Metre World Championship in Porquerolles, France

  • The Puig Vela Clàssica regatta in Barcelona

This followed an unbeaten run in the 12mR Pre-Worlds, firmly establishing her as the Grand Prix yacht to beat in the modern Vintage Division.

Ownership Timeline

  • 1985–late 1980s: Taskforce ’87, Perth, Australia

  • 1988: Sailed as Nordstjernan in Sweden

  • 1990s: Kookaburra Challenge Pty Ltd. – Newport, NSW

  • Since 2000: Ulisse Srl / Patrizio Bertelli – Rosignano Solvay, Italy

Quick Facts

  • Sail Number: KA-12

  • Design Year: 1985

  • Built: Parry Shipyard, Perth, Australia

  • Designer: John Swarbrick (with Iain Murray, Alan Payne, Derek Clark)

  • Rule: International Third Rule (12 Metre)

  • Construction: Aluminum alloy

  • Current Home Port: Rosignano Solvay, Italy

  • Current Skipper: Torben Grael

Still Cutting Through the Fleet

Kookaburra II exemplifies the fusion of high-performance design, technological experimentation, and timeless beauty. From the cutting-edge innovations of the 1987 campaign to modern dominance on the European 12mR circuit, KA-12 continues to prove that great design endures—and wins.