The newly arrived single-hull AC40 of the Orient Express Racing Team has been in the water - and the air - in its first navigation test in front of the headquarters of the America's Cup in Barcelona

After a tow test on the weekend behind the team's support ship to check and test the AC40 on-board systems, the race machine has started sailing today, when it is almost exactly a year away for the America's Cup Challenge Selection Series.

The master and pilot Quentin Delapierre, his partner Kevin Peponnet, and the trimmers Matthieu Vandamme and Jason Saunders, have been able to have their first practical experience on board the ship, which will be crucial for their preparation for the arrival of the AC75 next year.

Despite the low-wind conditions, the team has managed to get the AC40 with fils to spread the quiet waters of Barcelona during its first navigation test.

The AC40 will also be the race ship of the Orient Express Racing Team Youth America's Cup and the Women's America's Cup, which will compete in the American's Cup of 2024.