Dubai prepares to welcome Louis Vuitton yacht race

(Copyright 2009 Chris Cameron)

Six of the world's top international sailing teams will be competing in the fourth and final Louis Vuitton Trophy regatta of the year, between November 14 and 27, and Dubai International Marine Club is preparing to welcome both competitors and spectators.

The boats used will be identical ACC yachts, the same sort as was used in the Americas Cup between 1992 right up to 2007, with the aim of ensuring that any team advantages fall within the realms of personal skill and sailing expertise.

The Dubai stop also serves as another face-off between the Americas Cup Challengers of Record Mascalzone Latino and its current title holders, BMW Oracle Racing. Team New Zealand go to Dubai having already won the Italian and New Zealand legs.

In addition to the main Trophy races, there'll be Junior Trophy for younger sailors, and a heritage day on November 20 that sees traditional dhow sail boats take to the waves.

The race village at the Dubai International Marine Club will feature TV screens, a VIP lounge, and shops.

http://www.louisvuittontrophy.com