Sceptre 12 K 17

Design & Build

Sceptre (K-17) was designed by David Boyd and built by Alexander Robertson & Sons in 1957 as the British challenger for the 17th America's Cup held in 1958 under the new 12-Metre class rule. She was launched on April 2, 1958, measuring 20.97 meters overall, with a beam of 3.62 meters, a draft of around 3.00 meters, and a displacement of approximately 26 tons. Her elegant lines, traditional construction, and tall 26.5-meter mast made her a striking competitor in the new Cup era.

America's Cup Campaign

Sceptre was the first British challenger under the revived post-war Deed of Gift format. Owned by a syndicate headed by Hugh Goodson and carrying the burgee of the Royal Yacht Squadron, she was skippered by Graham Mann. In the 1958 America's Cup held at Newport, Rhode Island, she faced the American defender Columbia. Despite her preparation, Sceptre was outclassed by the American yacht and lost the series 4–0.

Racing Heritage & Later Career

Although unsuccessful in the Cup, Sceptre continued to race actively through the 1960s. Under the ownership of Eric Maxwell she gained a reputation in British and European classic yacht circles. In 1967, her counter stern was shortened by three feet, and by 1971 she was sold for conversion into a cruising yacht. This new role brought modifications including an engine and accommodation for extended sailing, marking a departure from her original racing focus.

Restoration & Preservation

In 1986, Sceptre was saved from obscurity by the Sceptre Preservation Society, which undertook to restore and maintain her as a living piece of maritime history. A significant refit equipped her with modern cruising comforts while maintaining her heritage as a 12-Metre. In 2003, the yacht’s original counter stern was restored, returning her profile to David Boyd’s original design. Today, Sceptre remains active in British waters as both a sailing yacht and an ambassador for maritime heritage.

Legacy

As the first British 12-Metre challenger of the modern America's Cup, Sceptre holds a special place in yachting history. Her participation in 1958 was pivotal in reviving the Cup with the 12-Metre class, setting the stage for decades of competition. Though she never claimed victory, she remains a symbol of British ambition and craftsmanship in the post-war sailing world. Preserved and sailing today, Sceptre continues to embody the elegance, spirit, and resilience of the classic 12-Metres.