Fugazi continues where it left off as Bay Regatta opens

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Daily results are available online at http://www.bayregatta.com/2019results

Fugazi, who debuted in the 2018 Bay Regatta, easily took line honors as its prone to do crossing the finish line on day one of the 2019 Bay Regatta with an elapsed time of 02:32:31, this ended up being 02:35:16 when handicap was applied for first spot in her class and as always, she was a stunning sight to see soaring through Phang Nga Bay’s stunning karst topography.  

Held this year after the Chinese New Year from 13th to 16th February, The Bay Regatta is a series of passage races – an event format that catches the attention of sailors from around the world with participants coming from as far afield as Australia, Russia, the UK and Canada to compete in five classes (Racing Class, Cruising A, Cruising B, Bareboat Charter & Racing Multihulls)

This four-day circumnavigation of Phang Nga Bay takes in three of southern Thailand's most scenic provinces–Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi–with the emphasis is on fun. Attracting the serious, the not-so-serious and the not-at-all-serious “racing” sailors, the regatta appeals to an international mix who enjoy the stunning sailing grounds of the area and a different destination each evening. 

Each evening, the regatta anchors at a different venue and the sailors go ashore. Those staying ashore – more than 60% of the fleet – book accommodation and either eat in the local restaurants or enjoy the official event functions which engage with the local community. Most of the expenditure of the regatta goes directly into the local economies of the areas we visit – this has been the case since the regatta was launched and it will remain so for the future—an excellent example of how sports tourism works to the benefit of communities and local economies.

Starting in Ao Po on Phuket's east coast, after registration and an opening party yesterday evening at Chandara Resort & Spa, the yachts raced north through the stunning rocky outcrops of Phang Nga Bay finishing off Koh Yao Noi, where yachts anchored and enjoyed a prize-giving party on the beach at Koh Yao Chukit resort.

The actual race started at Koh Naka Yai, then the participants sailed north leaving Koh Phanak and Koh Na Ka Ya to port before rounding the first mark, northeast of Koh Yai, to starboard and then passing Hin Mot Daeng to port and Koh Batang to starboard before finishing off of Koh Kudu Yai –approximately 17 nautical miles in length

PRO and race organizer Simon James had two starts for the competitors today: first off were all the monohulls (22 boats) followed by all the multihulls (7 boats). There were no real glitches, or incidents, on the course as sailboats deftly dodged the longtail fishing boats and fishing lines as they made their way across Phang Nga Bay.   

As the wind did die down, the course was shortened for the and taken back to the first mark for the Cruising Classes and Bareboat Charter Class.      

In the Racing Class, Scott Bradley’s East Marine took first place and line honors in the six-boat class with Uminokoskipped by Vitalii Plaksin coming in second anf Megazip (a two-time Bay Regatta winner), skipped by Alexey Mashkin placing third overall. Aquari,Jessandra IIand Ramrod came fourth, fifth and sixth in that order  

Cruising A saw Paul Merry’s Night Train take the top spot with Kirill Stashevskly’s Winds of Changein second and Brendon Roscoe’s Lola in third in the six-boast class.      

In Cruising B, Niels Degenkolw’s Phoenix, who was won this regatta numerous times claimed first overall finishing a half-an-hour ahead of Andriy Gubriyenko’s Pinocchio while Kevin Gillow’s sentimental favorite Poco placed third in the six-boat class.      

In the Bareboat Class, Kinnon, helmed by Konstantin Nazarenko, took first while Venture skippered by Stanislav Pechenkin, finished second and AllSail Tonicola helmed by Russell Waddy (the only non-Russian entry in the class) came third with Denis Aksenov Uhuru coming last in the four-boat class.    

Fugazi, Blue Nozeand Twisted 2came one, two, three in the seven-boat Multihull class with both Bladerunner and Twin Sharks receiving a DNF.   

John Newnham’s Twin Sharkshad to unfortunately pull out of the regatta due to a ripped sail. This was certainly a disappointment as crew members had flown in from the UK and the US to participate in the event. 

The Bay Regatta takes sailors through the three provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi allowing participants to experience the best of southern Thai hospitality and the unrivaled sailing grounds in the area. They sail amongst 200-metre high karsts and past hidden bays on their way to a party under-the-stars on an idyllic beach.

About The Bay Regatta

The Bay Regatta was launched in 1998 by a group of Phuket-based sailing enthusiasts and a photographer who wished to showcase the stunning beauty of the Phuket/ Phang Nga/ Krabi seascapes.

Co-Sponsors: The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Vacation Village Yacht Charters, Budget Car and Truck Rental, Castle Creek and Raymarine..

Regatta Partners: Chandara Resort and Spa, Haadthip, Jungceylon, Phra Nang Inn, Koh Yao Chukit Resort. Rainman Watermakers.

Local Supporters: Electrical Marine, B&G, Octopus Marine.

Media Partners: Class Act Media, Phuket News, SEA Yachting, Check In Surat Magazine, Marine Directory Asia, & aBoat.

The Bay Regatta is organised by Regattas Asia under the auspices of the Phuket Yacht Club. The event is supported by the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailan 

For more information, visit www.bayregatta.comor www.facebook.com/bayregatta(Detailed courses can be viewed at www.bayregatta.com/courses).

About Regattas Asia

Regattas Asia is a brand name of Phuket and More Co. Ltd., established in 2001 with over 18 years’ involvement in the organisation of leading marine events in Asia. Regattas Asia has become a prominent player in Asia's regattas industry, with an innovative approach to the management of major sailing events in the region, and provides services to the following events: Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, the Sabang International Regatta (Indonesia), Royal Langkawi International Regatta (Malaysia), Hainan Around the Island Regatta (China), & the China Cup International Regatta.

Regattas Asia are sole organisers of The Bay Regatta and Samui Regatta (www.regattas.asia).

 

Notice to Competitors No.1

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Revised Cruising and Multihull Class allocations for the Bay Regatta. 

Based on minimum entry criteria in the Cruising A and Multihull Cruising classes. Class allocations are amended as follows:

Cruising A and Cruising B will now be merged into a combined “Cruising Class” and divided into 2 divisions “Cruising A” and “Cruising B”.

Division allocations will be based on Hull Length, Displacement Ratio and Design.

Prizes will be presented for each division.

Divisions will be scored using a performance-based handicap system using a boats current IRC/NHC Handicap/PYC Club Handicap as its base rating. The TCF may be adjusted during the course of the regatta. Calculation or adjustment of TCFs are not grounds for redress or protest.

This amends NOR 3.1 and NOR 7.

Multihulls, will be raced as combined class called “Multihull Racing” and duel scored with prizes awarded under OMR and a performance based prize using a boats current PYC Club Handicap as its base rating. This amends NOR 7.3

Name:              Simon James     

Position:         Race Committee

Posted:            12.00 12/02/2019

Anchorage at Chandara. N 08˚ 03.82’ E 98˚ 26.58’

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For those new to the Regatta, the anchorage for the opening party is situated just south of Ao Po marina, the approximate position is N 08˚ 03.82’ E 98˚ 26.58’
There is a floating Jetty off the resort. There is a strong current through the channel and boats will swing in the night so please leave plenty of space between boats.

Suggested approach is from the North. Please be aware of submerged rocks in the Southern approach.

Complementary Longtail transfers are available for registration and the opening party only between 12.00 - 21.30. (A chargeable service is available outside these times.) contact Khun Nuch on 094 320 6087

Chandara Anchorage. Suggested access from the North.

Chandara Anchorage. Suggested access from the North.


The Bay Regatta - No Dinghy, No Problem.

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Did not bring your dinghy ?, longtail facilities are available at designated anchorages.

The Regatta will provide complimentary transfers to parties at Chandara and Koh Yao Noi as follows:

Chandara (13th) - Complementary Longtail transfers are available for registration and the opening party only between 12.00 - 21.30. (A chargeable service is available outside these times.)contact Khun Nuch on 094 320 6087

Koh Yao Noi (14th) - Complementary Longtail and Songtao transfers are available from the floating jetty for the presentation party only between 16.00 - 21.30

For additional resort transfers and morning (Chargeable) longtails, please liaise with your resort

Ao Nang (15th,16th) - a “pay as you go” longtail service is available in Ao Nang @ 100 baht per person (One Way). Contact the Krabi Longtail Centre on : 075 661 131

Ao Chalong - For assistance with moorings and transfers, please call the Phuket Cruising Yacht Club on 086 269 7138

The Tourism Authority of Thailand - Co-Sponsor

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Ko Muk, Trang Province

Ko Muk, Trang Province

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is helping to promote The Bay Regatta, that will take place from 13 to 17 February in the waters around Southern Thailands most popular sailing destinations of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi. This internationally acclaimed boating event attracts teams from all over the world and has become a much-anticipated feature on the sailing calendar attracting racers and cruisers alike .

Celebrating its 22nd Anniversary, this year’s event, held from February 13-February 17, will see dozens of colourful spinnakers sail from Phuket, through some of the world’s most famous cruising grounds, stopping off in Phang Nga and Krabi while enjoying spectacular scenery and partying well into the night at some of the region’s most beautiful resorts.

Discussing the event, Kae Wattana - Event Organiser, said:

“We are delighted that The Bay Regatta is thriving in its 22nd year. Southern Thailand’s warm seas, balmy winds and adjacent national marine park make it perfect for lovers of boats and yachts. Thailand has a rich maritime tradition, some of Asia’s best marina facilities and a wealth of off-shore wonders, so is the natural place for an international boat event such as this.”

“We are proud to provide a showcase for yachting in Thailand and we thank the Tourism Authority of Thailand for its support of this years Bay Regatta.”

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Get your boat name on the 2019 Regatta Shirt.

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13 days until The Bay Regatta.....
This year's official regatta shirts will include a list of boats entered. Tomorrow (2nd Feb) is the deadline at the printers. 
If you have not yet entered, this is the last chance to get your entry in and have your boat included on the shirts.
Click here to enter....http://www.bayregatta.com/enter-1/
Current entry list..... http://www.bayregatta.com/2019-entry-list/

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Raymarine - Co-Sponsor of The Bay Regatta 2019

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PHUKET, Thailand – Leading water sports event management company Regattas Asia – organisers of The Bay Regatta – confirm global marine electronics brand Raymarine, as a major sponsor of the 22nd anniversary event held 13th to 17th February, 2019.

A unique sailing event that starts and finishes in Phuket and sails through the stunning limestone topography of Phang Nga and Krabi provinces, Raymarine are a Co-Sponsor and have secured the sponsorship rights for the most scenic island race between Koh Yao Noi and Krabi. – Presentations will be held on at the iconic Phra Nang Inn, on Ao Nang Beach on Saturday 16th February.

The Raymarine Island Race 2019 (Course subject to change)

The Raymarine Island Race 2019 (Course subject to change)

Mick Kealy, Managing Director of local Raymarine distributor Octopus Electrical Service, noted that Raymarine are regular supporter of regattas worldwide and this is a great opportunity to give back to the local Thailand sailing community.

“The Bay Regatta has gained its reputation as the ‘fun regatta’; known for marrying the sailors’ fun with the thrill of voyage and the majesty of the Phang Nga cliffs. Raymarine, as the first choice for the majority of privately owned pleasure boats around the world, feel that many parallels can be drawn between the ideologies of this regatta and their own, and that supporting this regatta is the perfect way to promote the values of both the company and the South East Asian sailing community as a whole.”

Ms. Kae Wattana, Managing Director of organisers Regattas Asia, commented “ Raymarine is a major supplier of marine electronics and is likely used and enjoyed by most of the yachts racing in the regatta. Aligning with Raymarine, a recognized and respected international brand, adds credibility to the event and underscores the success of our unique regatta concept.”

 For more information, visit www.bayregatta.comor www.facebook.com/bayregatta. 

For more information on Raymarine, visit: http://www.octopusasia.com/index.html

Seraph returns home to "The Bay Regatta"

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The Bay Regatta are delighted to announce that SY Seraph will be back as the main committee boat for the 22nd Bay Regatta.

Seraph at anchor in “Chong Lat” during The Bay Regatta.

Seraph at anchor in “Chong Lat” during The Bay Regatta.

Originally built and launched in Copenhagen in 1906, she plied her trade in the North Sea for nearly 70 years, at which time she retired from her working life to travel the oceans as a private cruising yacht, arriving in Phuket in the early 90's.

Following a small mishap in the Similan Islands, she was salvaged and restored by regular regatta competitor, Mark Horwood of Phuket’s Latitude 8. Appearing on the scene for the very first “PhangNga Bay Regatta”.

After a few years, ownership passed to classic enthusiast Tom Howard who continued the refurbishment, with Seraph appearing as familiar sight on the local regatta circuit, not only as a support boat, but also as a competitor in the classic classes. During this time she celebrated her 100th Birthday.

Today she is now operated by Thai Yachting enthusiasts, Vacation Village Yacht Charter, operating out of Krabi as a smartly rigged gaff schooner in the traditional style offering fantastic day charters with the classic charm of a bygone era. With a guest capacity of up to 40 she is large, stable and a delight to sail on.


Megazip takes Bay Regatta’s Top Honours for 2nd straight year

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On the fourth and final day of the Bay Regatta, Chang Race Day, PRO and race organizer Simon James continued the regatta’s two-start format as all the monohulls crossed the start line together followed by all the multihulls. Another great sailing day greeted the participants as they sailed a short loop around some of the islands off the coast off of Krabi’s Railay Beach, before heading out for a straight shot back to the southern end of Koh Yao Yai with the racing boats doing a slightly longer course than the cruisers. After all the boats crossed the finish, they headed back to Phuket, where they celebrated the final prize giving and dinner at Kan Eang 2 restaurant, overlooking Chalong Bay. 

The four-boat Racing Class was already decided before the final race as Sergey Khamstov’s Megazip won the title for the second-straight year earning three firsts and a second-place for a five-point score over the four-day event (last year, the boat’s skipper was Aleksandr Trofimenko). Steve Manning’s Red Rum took second spot, with eleven points. Vitalii Plaksin’s Uminoko and Gary Baguley’s Fujin were next, tied at 12 points apiece, but Uminoko took third as a result of winning the class on day one.  

 In the Cruising A class, Niels Degenkolw and his all women’s’ team took first in every race except when they finished second on day three, thereby keeping’s Niels invincibility streak alive, as he won his class in the Bay Regatta for the umpteenth time. Amazing, indeed, as the Dane is coming off recent reconstructive knee surgery on both knees at Phuket’s Vachira Hospital and sitting in Phoenix for a four-day regatta can’t be easy. Max Palleschi’s Prime Factor took send overall and with Stanislav Pechenkin’s Russian crew Southern Breeze 3 came in third.

Cruising B was won by all the Thai-crew of Marigold, skippered by Ket Mangklaseranee. They turned three first-place finishes into a convincing overall lead. Mig Wehrle’s Aqua came in second overall but had the regatta’s cutest entrant-Mig’s three-month old son Lucas on board. Paul Baker’s Isabella, Greg Brennan’s Toot Yai (Big Butt), and Woodrow Christensen’s Linda finished third, fourth, and fifth, respectively.

The Bareboat Class ended up going to George Brown’s Kinnon as Denis Aksenov’s Venture was forced to “retire” on the final race due to use of an improper sail. Venture were very good sports about it all though, and congratulated Kinnon with a standing ovation during the final ceremony. Russell Waddy’s Allsail Kingsman and Andrew McDermott’s Fei Jian were third and fourth overall in this division.    

Fugazi was the star of the show in racing multis, winning line honours in all four races – but when their handicap was applied that was only good for fourth overall. They even set a set course record on the final leg from Krabi-Phuket in 2:06.  John Newnham’s Twin Sharks tight-knit team of Alfie Rowson, Jason Corall (fly in from New York), Tam Keawwantha (flew in from Ireland), took first overall in this ten-boat class, Alan Cawardine’s Asia Catamarans Hurricane came second and George Eddings on Blue Nose was third.

Multihull cruising was a two-boat affair and Robert Hossack’s Raptor 2001 whupped Rick Fielding’s Mojo in all four races.

Simon James did a tremendous job as PRO setting the courses, manning the starts and keeping things in order. Kae Wattana and her Regattas Asia team made everyone happy on shore, providing plenty of good food and drink and good entertainment. Sean Getchell’s Epic Charters stepped up and provided a superb committee boat, Hakuna Matata, and Captain Brent McInnis did great work steering the photographer’s rib. A big shot out to Simon’s team on the water—Susie, Kathy, Chandran & Eddie—as always, made sure all the starts and finishes were correctly posted and recorded.    

Scott Murray           

Great wind greets ShellSea Krabi Race Day 

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Windy and wavy from the get-go, PRO and race organizer Simon James staged three different starts and set three different courses for the third day of the 2018 Bay Regatta. Racing & Cruising A’s start was followed by Cruising B and Bareboats’, and then Racing and Cruising Multihulls. Course-wise, the Racing Class and Racing Multis were off on the longer 24NM course, while the two Cruising classes hit the 17NM course and the Bareboats & Cruising Multis sailed a 14NM route. All finished off of Railay Beach in Krabi.

With its second consecutive first-place finish, Sergey Khamstov’s Megazip won the Bay Regatta’s Racing Class; Uminoko, skipped by Vitalii Plaksin, third-place showing on the day saw it jump to second overall with Steve Manning’s Red Rum settling into third spot and Gary Baguley’s family on Fujin holding the last position in the four-boat class. Manning, won the 2016-17 Asian Yachting Grand Prix on the Ker Custom 42 Black Baza, which he co-skippered with Anthony Root.

In the Cruising A class, Niels Degenkolw’s and his women’s’ team second-place finish today kept Phoenix in first overall, Palleschi’s Prime Factor third-place showing allowed them to keep a stranglehold on second spot in this eight-boat class while Paul Merry’s Night Train snuck into third overall by winning the class today.

Cruising B saw Ket Mangklaseranee’s Marigold hold onto first overall, by claiming victory for the second straight day. Mig Wehrle’s Aqua stayed in second overall by finishing third today while Paul Baker’s Isabella moved up the leader board to third overall with a second-place finish today.   

If this regatta was determined on elapsed time alone, Fugazi would have won it a few seconds into race day one. Taking line honours for the third straight day with a time of 02:12:20 (corrected time was 02:17:30) was good enough for another third-place finish. Twin Sharks gave them a run for the money throughout the day, crossing the finish line a few minutes behind Fugazi, solidifying their hold on first spot overall, Asia Catamarans Hurricane and Blue Nose, sit second and third overall and it will be a battle royale across Phang Nga Bay tomorrow as the racing multis head back to Ao Chalong.    

The Bareboat Class saw Denis Aksenov’s Venture George Brown’s Kinnon, battle it out again with Venture holding a one-point lead heading into the final race day. Russell Waddy’s upset victory on day three saw them move into third overall.  

Multihull cruising saw Robert Hossack’s Raptor 2001 beat Rick Fielding’s Mojo for the straight day by almost 12 minutes on corrected time.

The Bay Regatta was founded by a photographer (John Everingham) and friends (Chris Schaefer and Andy Stephens). Everingham, a long-time Phuket King’s Cup Regatta committee member, was motivated in part by frustration at the annual struggle over setting that regatta’s courses. On the one hand, he wanted to shoot the fleet of sails contrasted against the dramatic scenery. The hard-core sailors, on the other hand, wanted their boats as far away from land as possible to avoid fickle winds. Dramatic photos would attract more sponsors, argued the photographer; but the sailors always won. So the stymied lensman rounded up some like-minded friends and established a regatta designed to sail among the dramatic limestone island towers and mainland forests of the waters off Phuket’s east coast. The problem was that the courses would go too deep into the Bay, where the wind didn’t blow. So when the Ao Chalong Yacht Club (now the Phuket Yacht Club) gained control over the regatta a couple years back a compromise was worked out between beautiful scenery and good sailing courses.

The ACYC, and its volunteer board, however, felt it could not properly run the regatta properly, so five years ago it was handed over to “Mr Regatta” himself, Simon James of Regattas Asia. Simon, who aside from being the PRO of the Regatta for many years, had also been one of its principle organizers along with his partner Kae Wattana, so they knew exactly what they were getting into.

About The Bay Regatta

The Bay Regatta was launched in 1998 by a group of Phuket-based sailing enthusiasts and a photographer who wished to showcase the stunning beauty of the Phuket/ Phang Nga/ Krabi seascapes.

Co-Sponsors: Chang Beer Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Chang, Mekhong, the Shellsea Krabi, and Raymarine, Budget Car & Truck Rental.

Regatta Partners: Jungceylon, Phuket Boat Lagoon, TIPLife, Chandara Resort & Spa, Kan Eang II, Haadthip, O2 Beach Club, Tonsai Marine Services, East Marine, Port Takola, Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort, and Ao Nang Villa.

 

Local Supporters: B & G, Infinity Communications, Prestige Marine, Octopus Marine. The Mangosteen Resort & Spa, Electrical Marine and Epic Charters.

 

Media Partners: The Phuket News, SEA Yachting, One Coast magazine, Check In - Surat, MDA, aBoat.

 

The Bay Regatta is organised by Regattas Asia under the auspices of the Phuket Yacht Club in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Province of Phuket, the Province of Phang Nga and the Province of Krabi.

 

For more information, visit www.bayregatta.com or www.facebook.com/bayregatta (Detailed courses can be viewed at www.bayregatta.com/courses).

 

About Regattas Asia

Regattas Asia is a brand name of Phuket and More Co. Ltd., established in 2001 with over 15 years’ involvement in the organisation of leading marine events in Asia. Regattas Asia has become a prominent player in Asia's regattas industry, with an innovative approach to the management of major sailing events in the region, and provides services to the following events: Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, Sabang International Regatta (Indonesia), Royal Langkawi International Regatta (Malaysia), Hainan Around the Island Regatta (China), China Cup International Regatta.

 

Regattas Asia are sole organisers of The Bay Regatta and Samui Regatta (www.regattas.asia).

 

Nothing but blue skies & good wind on Raymarine Race Day

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Yesterday’s Jungceylon Race Day from Ao Po to Koh Yao Noi was followed today by Raymarine’s Race Day. Participants in the 21st Bay Regatta continued to enjoy great sailing weather as the party that sails around continued to do just that.   

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PRO and race organizer Simon James again staged two starts for the competitors today: first off were all the monohulls followed by all the multihulls, and again there were no major incidents to report – just a nice clear spinnaker run down Phang Nga Bay.

The 20nm course left from east of Koh Yao Noi, rounded to starboard Koh Pang, passing Koh Pak Bia, and then past Koh Ka to starboard through the gate at Koh Heng (keeping the committee boat to port), then rounding Koh Ngang to port before passing between Koh Deng and Koh Samet and finally finishing between the committee boat and Koh Ya Man.       

The four-boat Racing Class saw the boats have identical 1-4 elapsed and corrected times order as Sergey Khamstov’s Megazip came first, followed by Steve Manning’s Red Rum, Aussie Gary Baguley’s family on Fujin in third and Uminoko skipped by Vitalii Plaksin in fourth. 

In Cruising A, Niels Degenkolw’s and his women’s’ team on Phoenix continued to dazzle and turn heads, claiming first overall, finishing twenty-five minutes ahead of Aussie Palleschi’s Prime Factor on corrected time and even further ahead of Russian Kirill Stashevskly on his new boat Jing Jing. Kirill competed for many years in this regatta and others sailing the stealth catamaran, Gale Force.

Cruising B saw the results flip-flop from yesterday with Ket Mangklaseranee’s Marigold taking first from Mig Wehrle’s Aqua (Mig had his wife and young child on board) with Paul Baker’s Isabella coming in third.       

The Bareboat Class saw Venture’s wildly excitable crew skippered by Denis Aksenov finish three hours ahead of Kinnon, helmed by George Brown. 

Line honours again went to Fugazi with a time of 03:08:18, which became 03:15:39 on corrected time, good enough for third spot on the day. Asia Catamarans Hurricane and Twin Sharks flip-flopped their positions from yesterday with Alan Carwardine’s crew taking top spot on this day.  

Multihull cruising saw Robert Hossack’s Raptor 2001 beat Rick Fielding’s Mojo by 12 minutes on corrected time.

The Bay Regatta takes sailors through the three provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi allowing participants to experience the best of southern Thai hospitality and the unrivaled sailing grounds in the area. They sail amongst 200-metre high karsts and past hidden bays on their way to a party under-the-stars on an idyllic beach.

In the deep channels between the spectacular, vertical rock walls, the Bay Regatta’s philosophy of fun-amidst-beauty shone through for all to see. The hallmark of this event is a casual, fun-filled atmosphere. Many friends join together to sail the four-day event and while the sailing is serious for many racing class yachts, a large number of cruisers join for the experience of sailing through some of the world’s most amazing maritime scenery.

About The Bay Regatta

The Bay Regatta was launched in 1998 by a group of Phuket-based sailing enthusiasts and a photographer who wished to showcase the stunning beauty of the Phuket/ Phang Nga/ Krabi seascapes.

Co-Sponsors: Chang,  Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Chang, Mekhong, the Shellsea Krabi, and Raymarine, Budget Car & Truck Rental.

Regatta Partners: Jungceylon, Phuket Boat Lagoon, TIPLife, Chandara Resort & Spa, Kan Eang II, Haadthip, O2 Beach Club, Tonsai Marine Services, East Marine, Port Takola, Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort, and Ao Nang Villa.

Local Supporters: B & G, Infinity Communications, Prestige Marine, Octopus Marine. The Mangosteen Resort & Spa, Electrical Marine and Epic Charters.

Media Partners: The Phuket News, SEA Yachting, One Coast magazine, Check In - Surat, MDA, aBoat.

The Bay Regatta is organised by Regattas Asia under the auspices of the Phuket Yacht Club in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Province of Phuket, the Province of Phang Nga and the Province of Krabi.

For more information, visit www.bayregatta.com or www.facebook.com/bayregatta (Detailed courses can be viewed at www.bayregatta.com/courses).

About Regattas Asia

Regattas Asia is a brand name of Phuket and More Co. Ltd., established in 2001 with over 15 years’ involvement in the organisation of leading marine events in Asia. Regattas Asia has become a prominent player in Asia's regattas industry, with an innovative approach to the management of major sailing events in the region, and provides services to the following events: Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, Sabang International Regatta (Indonesia), Royal Langkawi International Regatta (Malaysia), Hainan Around the Island Regatta (China), China Cup International Regatta.

 

Regattas Asia are sole organisers of The Bay Regatta and Samui Regatta (www.regattas.asia).

 

Fugazi soars across Bay Regatta to earn line honours in day one

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Fugazi soars across Bay Regatta to earn line honours in day one

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Fugazi, helmed and recently sold by builder Danny Moore, took advantage of some good early wind to fly through the course on day one of the 2018 Bay Regatta taking line honours in 3:50:02. On corrected time, with her handicap, this ended up being a time of 3:59:19 (for seventh spot in her class), but boy, did Fugzai catch good wind as she soared through the stunning karst topography.  

Held from 1st to 4th February, The Bay Regatta is a series of passage races – an event format that catches the attention of sailors from around the world with participants coming from as far afield as Australia, Russia, the UK and Canada to compete in six classes (Racing Class, Cruising A, Cruising B, Bareboat Charter, Racing Multihulls and Cruising Multihulls)

This four-day circumnavigation of Phang Nga Bay takes in three of southern Thailand's most scenic provinces–Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi–with the emphasis is on fun. Attracting the serious, the not-so-serious and the not-at-all-serious “racing” sailors, the regatta appeals to an international mix who enjoy the stunning sailing grounds of the area and a different destination each evening.

Each evening, the regatta anchors at a different venue and the sailors go ashore. Those staying ashore – more than 60% of the fleet – book accommodation and either eat in the local restaurants or enjoy the official event functions which engage with the local community. Most of the expenditure of the regatta goes directly into the local economies of the areas we visit – this has been the case since the regatta was launched and it will remain so for the future—an excellent example of how sports tourism works to the benefit of communities and local economies.

Starting in Ao Po on Phuket's east coast, after registration and an opening party yesterday evening at Chandara Resort & Spa, the yachts raced north through the stunning rocky outcrops of Phang Nga Bay finishing off Koh Yao Noi, where yachts anchored and enjoyed a prize-giving party on the beach at Koh Yao Chukit resort.

The actual race started at Koh Naka Yai, then the participants sailed north leaving Koh Phanak and Koh Na Ka Ya to port before rounding the first mark, northeast of Koh Yai, to starboard and then passing Hin Mot Daeng to port and Koh Batang to starboard before finishing off of Koh Kudu Yai – approximately 17 nautical miles in length.

PRO and race organizer Simon James had two starts for the competitors today: first off were all the monohulls (21 boats) followed by all the multihulls (12 boats). There were no real glitches, or incidents, on the course as sailboats deftly dodged the longtail fishing boats and fishing lines as they made their way across Phang Nga Bay.  

As time progressed and the wind died down, the course was shortened to approximately ten nautical miles for the cruising B, multihull cruising, bareboat cruising classes.     

In the Racing Class, Russian boats have proved to be the class of the fleet the last few years and today was no different. Uminoko skipped by Vitalii Plaksin was third across the finish, but on corrected time took first overall. Megazip (a former Bay Regatta winner), skipped by Sergey Khamstov placed second overall with Aussie Gary Baguley, sailing with many of his family members on board Fujin, coming in third on corrected time. Steve Manning’s Red Rum took last spot four-boat class on the day. 

In Cruising A, Niels Degenkolw’s Phoenix, who was won this regatta numerous times claimed first overall with his all-female crew, finishing fifteen minutes ahead of Aussie Palleschi’s Prime Factor on corrected time with Stanislav Pechenkin’s Russian crew Southern Breeze 3 coming in a distant third in this eight-boat class.

Cruising B saw Mig Wehrle’s Aqua beat Ket Mangklaseranee’s Marigold on both elapsed and corrected time as these two boats were the only ones to finish racing on this day as Greg Brennan’s Toot Yai and Woodrow Christensen’s Linda retired due to light wind and Isabella a late replacement for Farrgo Express, who damaged her rudder entering the passage to Ao Po last night, registered a DNF.                

The Russians were the only nationality to take two classes on the day also capturing the Bareboat Class with Venture skippered by Denis Aksenov finishing three hours ahead of Kinnon, helmed by George Brown. Andrew McDermott’s Fei Jian and Russell Waddy’s AllSail Kingman retired due to light winds.

John Newnham’s crew on Twin Sharks has been together a long time and they just know how to get it done. Though they finished second on elapsed time (5 & ½ minutes after Fugazi); when the handicap was applied they claimed first overall in the Multihull Racing class. Asia Catamarans Hurricane, who were third on elapsed time, finished second overall on day one in the ten-boat class, while Blue Nose snuck into third spot.   

Multihull cruising saw Robert Hossack’s Raptor 2001 finish almost five minutes ahead of Rick Fielding’s Mojo on corrected time; the two boats have a strong rivalry, as they battle it out in many Phuket regattas and will duke it out again in this two-boat class.   

The Bay Regatta takes sailors through the three provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi allowing participants to experience the best of southern Thai hospitality and the unrivaled sailing grounds in the area. They sail amongst 200-metre high karsts and past hidden bays on their way to a party under-the-stars on an idyllic beach.

About The Bay Regatta

The Bay Regatta was launched in 1998 by a group of Phuket-based sailing enthusiasts and a photographer who wished to showcase the stunning beauty of the Phuket/ Phang Nga/ Krabi seascapes.

Co-Sponsors: Chang Beer Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Chang, Mekhong, the Shellsea Krabi, and Raymarine, Budget Car & Truck Rental.

Regatta Partners: Jungceylon, Phuket Boat Lagoon, TIPLife Chandara Resort & Spa, Kan Eang II, Haadthip, O2 Beach Club, Tonsai, East Marine, Port Takola, Koh Yao Chukit and Ao Nang Villa.

Local Supporters: B & G, Infinity Communications, Prestige Marine, Octopus Marine. The Mangosteen Resort & Spa, Electrical Marine and Epic Charters.

Media Partners: The Phuket News, SEA Yachting, One Coast magazine, Check In, MDA, aBoat.

The Bay Regatta is organised by Regattas Asia under the auspices of the Phuket Yacht Club in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, TAT, the Provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi and Thailand’s National Parks Authority.

For more information, visit www.bayregatta.com or www.facebook.com/bayregatta (Detailed courses can be viewed at www.bayregatta.com/courses).

About Regattas Asia

Regattas Asia is a brand name of Phuket and More Co. Ltd., established in 2001 with over 15 years’ involvement in the organisation of leading marine events in Asia. Regattas Asia has become a prominent player in Asia's regattas industry, with an innovative approach to the management of major sailing events in the region, and provides services to the following events: Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, Sabang International Regatta (Indonesia), Royal Langkawi International Regatta (Malaysia), Hainan Around the Island Regatta (China), China Cup International Regatta.

 

Regattas Asia are sole organisers of The Bay Regatta and Samui Regatta (www.regattas.asia).

 

Bay Regatta - Ready to set sail

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Crews are heading to the start line for this years Bay Regatta

Crews are heading to the start line for this years Bay Regatta

Over 40 sailing yachts and 250 competitors arrive in Phuket in February, to join this year’s 21st Bay Regatta. 31st January – 4th February 2018.

Now in it’s 21st Year, The Bay Regatta is different from Phuket famous King’s Cup Regatta, as it takes the fleet from Phuket, through the spectacular scenery of Phang Nga Bay to a new anchorage each evening, holding awards parties in a wide variety of different locations.

The event attracts a range of sailors, from first time racers joining just for the experience of sailing through some of the world’s most amazing maritime scenery, to professional racers, who return year after year for the opportunity to race and stay overnight in some fantastic anchorages, which are carefully selected to allow the participants to have the choice to sleep on their boats or ashore at local resorts. 

Often billed ‘Asia’s fun regatta’, the hallmark of this event is the casual, fun-filled atmosphere with many families and faces familiar to the Phuket yachting scene returning to the race course, preferring the regattas more relaxed approach to racing for the four-day adventure.

Despite the relaxed atmosphere, yachts are divided into 6 classes based on their designs. The “Racing” class see a number of new entries this year with teams travelling from Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore to challenge Sergey Khamtsov’s Megazip.

2017 Racing Class Champions Megazip

2017 Racing Class Champions Megazip

The Bareboat charter class returns in force emphasizing that Phuket remains one of the worlds best yacht charter opportunities with a strong entry from the New Zealand, Russia, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Cruising Yachts are split into 2 divisions and sees an every expanding range of yachts joining to challenge locals, Kevin Gillow and Jim Ellis for the title.

The Multihull class is divided into racing and cruising divisions, With 2 current King’s Cup champions, Henry Kaye’s Thor and John Newnham’s Twin Sharks renewing their battle from 2017. The cruising fleet challenge is lead by Robert Hossack’s Raptor, crewed by regatta legends David Yourrief and Alistair Purves.

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The 2018 competition starts on the 31st January with registration and the opening party held at the Chandara Resort and Spa, Ao Po on the north East of Phuket.

The first race day (1st) heads out from Ao Po and races north to the top of Phang Nga Bay, past the famous ramparts of Ko Phanak, the Ko Hong group of islands and James Bond Island. Crossing the bay and anchoring between Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi for a presentation evening under the stars at the Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort.

The second race day (2nd) will see the fleet running through the many secluded islands of the Ko Pak Bia group before heading East, for a free night to sample the delights of Karbi’s Leam Nang Peninsular.  

This years regatta will race in Krabi for 2 nights, encouraging some of the many boats now berthed in Krabi’s new Marinas out on the water.

Day Three (3rd), Consists of a number of “Around the Islands” Courses including the famous “Ko Dam Group”, finishing off Ao Nang Beach for a prize giving Party at the 5-Star “The ShellSea Krabi”.

The final day (4th) sees an early start off Ao Nang for a final race around the islands before a spectacular “Spinnaker downwind sprint” to Phuket's all year anchorage of Ao Chalong.

The last night closing party will be held at Kan Eang II, Ao Chalong and will include live music, a buffet dinner and presentation of the overall prizes.

 

2018 Regatta Programme

Wednesday 31st January - Registration from noon till 1730 at Ao Po followed by the Opening Party starting at 1800 hrs.

Thursday 1st February - Race Day 1.

Party and presentations at the Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort, Koh Yao Noi.

Starting at 1800 hrs.

Friday 2nd February - Race Day 2.

Racing to Krabi Area (Free Night)

Saturday 3rd February - Race Day 3.

Racing around the Ko Dam Group of Islands.

Party and presentations at The ShellSea Krabi.

Sunday 4th February - Race Day 4.

Party and presentations at Kan Eang II, Ao Chalong. starting at 19.00 hrs.

The Regatta is organised by Regattas Asia under the auspices of the Phuket Yacht Club. The event is supported by the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Co-Sponsors: Chang, The Tourism Authority of Thailand, The ShellSea Krabi, Budget Car and Truck Rental, Raymarine.

Regatta Partners: Chandara Resort and Spa, Haadthip, Jungceylon, East Marine, Koh Yao Chukit Resort, Tonsai Marine Services, Tip Life, Ao Nang Villa.

Local Supporters: Electrical Marine, B&G, Octopus Marine, The Mangosteen Resort, Epic Charters.

Media Partners: Class Act Media, Phuket News, SEA Yachting, Check In Surat Magazine, One Coast, Marine Directory Asia, aBoat.

Routes announced for 2018 Bay Regatta

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THE BAY REGATTA ROUTE - 2018

Route2018Edit.jpg

New routes and exciting new venues have been announced for the 21st Bay Regatta (31st Jan - 4th February).

This years racing will start from Chandara Resort and Spa located at Ao Po, Phuket. The fleet will race on the traditional route through PhangNga Bay to the East of Koh Yao Noi. From the finish line, the fleet will then head south and anchor in the sheltered channel between Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai. With a first night presentation party at Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort on Pasai Beach.

Day 2 will take the yachts racing through the Koh Hong Group, passing the Royal Palace and finishing close to Ralaee Beach for the popular "free night" in Krabi.

Day 3 will take the yachts racing around the Ko Dam Group of Islands, finishing off Ao Nang. With competitors heading ashore for a presentation dinner at the new five-star The ShellSea, Krabi,located near the famous Fossil Shell Beach, one of only three known such geological formations in the world.

Day 4 takes the yachts back across to Phuket, via Koh Yao Yai for a final nights presentation dinner at Kqn Eang II in Ao Chalong. 

For details of accommodation offers from our venue partners, please check out www.bayregatta.com, 

  • Registration, Skippers Briefing and Opening Buffet - Chandara Resort and Spa, Ao Po, Phuket.

  • Day 1 - Race from Ao Po to Koh Yao Noi. Presentation at Koh Yao Chukit Dachanan Resort, Pasai Beach, Koh Yao Noi
  • Day 2 - Race from Koh Yao  to Krabi Area . Free Night in Krabi
  • Day 3 - Race around Krabi Islands - Presentation at The ShellSea, Krabi
  • Day 4 - Race from Krabi to Ao Chalong Bay, Phuket. - Closing Dinner Kan Eang II, Ao Chalong.