Local boat owners have been invited to join the America’s Cup Course Marshal fleet — providing their vessels are between 18 to 20 feet. In all, 32 boats will be needed between May 15 and June 28 next year.

The appeal comes from ACBDA as they prepare to provide a safe racecourse for the mega sailing event.

ACBDA is the organisation charged with delivering Bermuda’s obligations and responsibilities as the host country and their On Water Operations Committee is responsible for providing a safe racing area for the duration of the five-week race schedule.

“Having a fleet of local power boats will help Bermuda organisers to deliver that mandate,” said an ACBDA statement.

“The fleet with be tasked with creating order among spectator boats on the Great Sound during the races.”

Tom Miller, chairman of the committee, said: “Creating a safe, uncompromised racecourse is of utmost importance in order to have successful racing on the Great Sound next year.

“We are asking local power boat owners to consider making their vessels available to help us achieve this goal.

“A safe racecourse is a critical element to showcasing Bermuda as a wonderful place to host sailing regattas.”

The committee have outlined the specifications for eligible boats as follows:

• 32 boats in good working order

• 18’ to 20’ in length

• Fuel efficient, 70hp or less four-stroke engines in good condition

• 60 L fuel tank

• Hydraulic steering

• Safety gear (anchor, chain, rope, dock lines, self-bailing cockpit, etc)

• Seating for two people

• Shade covering

• Hard-wired VHF radio

• Capabilities for towing marks

• Cooler for water

• Running lights

Boat owners interested in joining the fleet be given further information when they respond.

“It is anticipated that not all boats will be required all of the days scheduled but we would like to hear from people who are willing to consider making their boats available for a majority of the AC scheduled days,” added the statement.

“Boat owners can register their interest by e-mailing Adam Barboza, ACBDA Project Manager on ab@acbda.bm, who will provide specific details around the opportunity.”