America’s Cup organisers have launched the “First Mates” programme to find volunteers for the 2017 sailing spectacle.

About 1,000 volunteers are expected to play a part in delivering the 35th America’s Cup when it starts on May 26.

Today insurer XL Catlin, the America’s Cup Event Authority and America’s Cup Bermuda announced plans to build a team of “passionate, committed and talented volunteers who will become ambassadors of the America’s Cup” in Bermuda.

Volunteers will be asked to fulfil a wide range of roles including helping out on the water course marshalling and with transportation and logistics.

“Volunteers are an integral part of why the America’s Cup events are successful all around the world.,” Sam Hollis, the ACEA’s chief operating officer, said. “We simply could not host these events without the invaluable contributions of those who volunteer their time and talent.

“We look forward to welcoming the diverse team of First Mates who will make up an integral and valued part of the 35th America’s Cup.”

To prepare for the event a volunteer drive is being launched with sessions available for the general public to learn more about volunteering during next year’s event.

The sessions will be held from 6pm to 7pm at XL Catlin’s offices in Hamilton on November 7, 9, 15 and 16.

Volunteers will be asked to commit an average of 120 hours over the course of the month-long event. There will be approximately 12 shifts over 30 operating days and average volunteer shifts will be eight hours long.

Mike Winfield, CEO of ACBDA, added: “I would like to encourage the people of Bermuda to apply to become a First Mate.

“There are a wide variety of positions available and being a sailing enthusiast isn’t a requirement. The First Mates will help welcome the world for the 35th America’s Cup to experience the best Bermuda has to offer and our reputation of going the extra-mile for our visitors will shine.”

Volunteers have to be at least 18 by May 1, 2017 and available to volunteer for the duration of the event from May 26 to June 27.

They also need to be available to participate in the mandatory volunteer orientation in mid-April 2017, training course and also the Bermuda Tourism Authority’s Certified Tourism Ambassador training.

Anyone interested in becoming a First Mate should register by completing the online volunteer application form by November 30 at http://bttr.im/nxf2x.

For more information on the America’s Cup volunteer programme visit: https://www.americascup.com/en/join-us/2_VOLUNTEERS.html.