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Freed from the terrors of the Ocean, aficionados extended water games to the high seas in the nineteenth century. They crossed the Atlantic and travelled the world on their sailboats. This activity came to be declined in open sea races and shoreline regattas. Institutions such as clubs, federations and international ruling committees organised what came to be called yachting, and later recreational sailing. The history of the old America’s Cup (1851) is a good example of agonistic play in the open seas turned professional sport. Yet this oft described ‘sportisation’ process deserves to be interrogated, as it is not the whole of the world of sailing. The adaptation to the competitive society of capitalism and its spirit of challenge stands next to non-utilitarian inventions and adventures. These sailors keep the old tradition alive by sailing the seas and participating in clubs and patrimonial work.