In her original grey livery, the newly launched schooner America is seen racing the loop Maria off the famous Battery Headland, New York. Maria, owned by John C. Stevens, has left her New York Yacht Club anchorage to defend her title as the fastest yacht in America. In the sheltered harbour course, she did so, but America showed the brilliance of George Steers' design. America went on to make history in her transatlantic crossing and race with the British Royal Yacht Squadron on August 31, 1851.

This painting is a masterwork by Dews, with superb, light, shadow and drama. The depiction of the sea is a superior presentation. Dews exhibits a technical detail that is top quality and his artistic vision makes this painting a historic record of inspiration for all aspects of the yacht building.