This work investigates the technical evolution and competitive history of the Twelve Metre class yachts during their tenure as the primary vessels for the America's Cup. Norris D. Hoyt, an experienced sailor and maritime author, utilizes his deep knowledge of yacht design and racing tactics to document the transition from traditional wooden construction to modern materials. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the design constraints and the strategic maneuvers that defined the era of Twelve Metre racing.

The text serves as a specialized reference for maritime historians and sailing enthusiasts interested in the technical nuances of the America's Cup. Its focus on the specific engineering challenges of the Twelve Metre class provides a clear, clinical look at the evolution of competitive yachting during the twentieth century.