Elvstrøm Sails North America launches in Newport

Danish sailmaker Elvstrøm Sails has appointed the newly formed Elvstrøm Sails North America as its exclusive regional distributor for the United States and Canada.

The company is based in Newport, Rhode Island, and began operations in September 2026. Its central sail loft in the Newport area supports racing and cruising sailors across both countries, with access to the Danish brand’s full range of cruising and high-performance sails.

Four industry professionals founded and are now leading the business. CEO Tim Healy is a former sailmaking industry sales executive and three-time world champion sailor, while fellow world champion Rodrigo Meireles has decades of experience in sail design, manufacturing and operations.

Jeff Shay brings a background in entrepreneurship and business strategy, alongside competitive sailing. Nicholas von der Wense has worked in technology and business development and holds multiple national sailing titles.

The wider team includes Tom Castiglione, who has worked in sailmaking for 30 years and serves as senior sales consultant. Chris Williams takes on the role of head of sail design, drawing on his experience as a grand prix sail designer and crew member on multiple championship-winning teams. Olympic medallist and Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, Stephen Benjamin, serves as a dealer and performance consultant.

“We partner with leaders who share our commitment to craftsmanship and performance. The team behind Elvstrøm Sails North America brings an exceptional combination of championship racing experience and market expertise, and we are thrilled to welcome them to our international network,” says Morten Gantriis Sørensen, CEO of Elvstrøm Sails A/S in Denmark.

Elvstrøm Sails has more than 70 years of sailmaking history. Customers can choose from panelled sails, Epex membrane sails and Xylo spread filament composite technology. The company offers all four major sailmaking technologies: woven, laminate, membrane and spread filament composite.

“Our customers participate in sailing for the experience, whether competing with their team or cruising with family and friends. We see them as long-term partners and work closely with them to find the right sail solutions for their individual needs,” says Tim Healy, CEO of Elvstrøm Sails North America.