THE Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's yachting duel in waters off Auckland ended with an emphatic victory for Kate.

Looking every inch the experienced sailor she is, the Duchess won two races piloting an America's Cup sailing boat, leaving William trailing.

Kate could not hide her delight when she beat her husband and was seen punching the air on both occasions her sleek racing yacht finished first with her at the helm.

Back on dry land, the Duke joked "we were sabotaged".

Picture: Mark Cuthbert/Reuters