On August 10th, we watched the Italian’s win a resounding victory in ‘Luna Rossa’, over the Swedes in ‘Artemis’, as they strove to become the winners of the 2013 Louis Vuitton Cup, the ticket to become the Challenger in this year’s 34th America’s Cup. (See the previous post) Once the 45 minute race was completed the teams returned to their home docks where these incredible, sleek vessels were dissembled and carefully returned to storage ready for the next race.


Victorious Luna Rossa docked @ America's Cup 2013
Known for their stunning automobile genius, we were thrilled to see the Italian’s get out not their Ferrai’s but these cute newly modified Fiats, to parade a victory lap for their countrymen. Straight out of a ‘007’ movie, these little Fiats can ‘drive’ on water!
Italian Fiats victory lap for Luna Rossa @ America's Cup San Franciso 2013
Incredulous passers-by grabbed their cameras!
The Italian Fiat victory lap for Luna Rossa @
Meanwhile the crane had lifted up Luna Rossa’s sail and it was tenderly carried inside
Luna Rossa, putting the sail away after the race America's cup San Francisco 2013
Separated from its top, the hull was placed on the dock and given a well deserved ‘cool down’!
Luna Rossa hull after the race America's cup San Francisco 2013
The Crew, stylish as ever, checked that all was as it should be
Crew off to clean Luna Rossa, America's cup San
The Italian flag fluttering proudly against the backdrop of San Francisco’s Bay Bridge, is victory within their reach?
Italian flag by Bay Bridge America's cup San Francisco 2013

Download the San Francisco Travel Guide  here, suggestions for where to stay, where to eat and what not to miss!