SOUTHERN CROSS ORIGINAL OWNER Southern Cross was built by Perth entrepreneur Alan Bond for the Americas Cup. DESIGNER Southern Cross was designed by Australia's famous yacht designer, Ben Lexcen. SPECIFICATIONS Built in Perth Western Australia of aluminium, weighing 32 tonnes with a single mast which is 97 feet high. Southern Cross was built to the Americas Cup 12 metre rule specification and is 68 feet in length.  * WINNER OF THE LOUIS VUTTION CUP * by successfully defeating the French, Swedish & British challenging syndicates to make it to the final of the America's Cup against the USA. RACING HISTORY Southern Cross was built for wind conditions of 10 - 18 knots, which is perfect sailing the Whitsunday Islands. When Southern Cross competed in the Americas Cup in Newport Rhode Island the races that year were in light conditions of less than 10 knots. Prince Philip sailed on Southern Cross for 3 hours during which time he took the Wheel. He later announced 'Southern Cross is a right royal piece of equipment'. WHITSUNDAY CHARTERS Southern Cross's conversion to an overnight charter vessel was extensive and included new cockpits, new coach roof, new diesel engine and cabin fit out downstairs to make her into a comfortable yacht for overnight sailing charters. Southern Cross has single berths and three double berths.  Southern Cross provides 3 day 2 night sailing adventures in the Whitsundays. Each trip takes up to 14 guests on the adventure of a lifetime. Guests are welcome to assist sail Southern Cross, including hoisting and trimming sails, or taking the helm to steer her around the islands. Southern Cross being the smaller vessel in our fleet is ideal for private group charters of 6 to 14 guests.