⛵ How to watch the America's Cup by boat in Naples: exclusion zones, accreditation, and Watch on Water

The pre-regattas of the America’s Cup in Naples represent an unmissable event for boaters and sea enthusiasts. Seeing the AC40 class foiling rockets speeding at over 50 knots on the waters of the Gulf, with the backdrop of Castel dell'Ovo and Mount Vesuvius, is a breathtaking spectacle.

However, watching the races directly from your own boat or a boat rental requires compliance with strict safety regulations, navigation limits, and accreditation procedures established by the Coast Guard and the official organization.

In this complete guide by QueryBoat, we will discover exactly how to position yourself in the Gulf, what the exclusion zones are, how the Watch on Water program works, and what to check before casting off.

🗺️ 1. The Race Course in the Gulf of Naples

The main race course is set up in the stretch of sea in front of the Litorale di Via Caracciolo (Rotonda Diaz / Via Partenope), extending towards the waters of Posillipo.

Since the AC40 foiling monohulls reach high speeds and require ample space for jibing and tacking maneuvers, the maritime authority outlines an impassable Race Course Perimeter for all unauthorized vessels.

🚨 2. Exclusion Zones and Navigation Limits

During practice sessions and official race days, ordinary navigation in the affected area is suspended by order of the Port Authority.

The waters of the Gulf are divided into three main areas:

• 🔴 Red Zone (Race Course): Internal area delimited by the official race buoys. Access is reserved exclusively for team vessels, support boats, and the organization's rescue craft.

• 🟡 Buffer Zone (Safety Corridor): An emergency corridor several hundred meters wide around the race perimeter, reserved for patrol boats and law enforcement to ensure the safety of the public and competitors.

• 🟢 Spectator Zones (Spectator Areas at Sea): Sectors delimited upwind and downwind of the race course where boaters (sailing and motor) and accredited charter vessels can station safely.

⚠️ Navigation Note: During race time windows, it is strictly forbidden to cross the race corridor by motor or sail.

📲 3. What is the "Watch on Water" program and how to register

The America's Cup organization uses the official Watch on Water program to register and manage spectator vessels in real time.

📋 How boat accreditation works:

1. Vessel Registration: Boat owners, captains, and charter companies must register the boat on the event's official website or app (Watch on Water).

2. Sector Assignment: Based on the boat's size (LOA) and type (catamaran, inflatable boat, sailboat, mega yacht), a specific sector in the Spectator Zone is assigned.

3. VHF Communications and Coordinates: Once accredited, you will receive the precise GPS coordinates of the perimeter buoys and the VHF channel dedicated to maritime traffic coordination.

⚓ 4. Practical tips for safety at sea

Following the races from your own boat requires maximum attention and respect for the rules of good seamanship:

• 📻 VHF Always On: Keep the VHF radio tuned both to channel 16 for emergencies and to the channel communicated during the briefing for updates from the Race Committee.

• 📜 Documents and Equipment in Order: Inspections by the Coast Guard, the Financial Police, and the Maritime Police will be constant. Check your onboard equipment and the validity of your navigation license.

• ⚓ Anchor Holding: In the stationing areas near Posillipo or Mergellina, the seabed varies significantly. Calculate the correct amount of chain before turning off the engines.

• 🛑 Respect Distances: Never cross the demarcation lines. AC40s create high-pressure waves, and any encroachment will cause the immediate interruption of the race and administrative penalties.

🛥️ 5. Boat rental for the America's Cup in Naples

For those who wish to experience the spectacle from the sea without owning a vessel, a boat rental with skipper is the best choice.

• 📍 Convenient Departure Marinas: The closest departure points to the race course are the Port of Mergellina, Molosiglio, the Port of Santa Lucia, as well as the nearby ports of Pozzuoli and Procida.

• 🚤 Which boat to choose?

  • Inflatable boats and Open boats: Ideal for speed in movement and ease of maneuvering.

  • Catamarans: The top choice for groups, stability at anchor, and large sunbathing areas.

  • Gozzo (traditional wooden boat) and Yachts with Skipper: Perfect for enjoying the day in total relaxation with dedicated services on board.