Phuket is ready to host the award-winning Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek from 16 – 20 July off the Island’s south-east coast. The season-opening event of the 2014/15 Asian Yachting Grand Prix – a series of 12 of the best regattas in Asia – Raceweek is set to welcome one of the most competitive fleets in the Regatta’s history.
‘The quality of the fleet is arguably the best ever and what is particularly encouraging this year is the number of new boats from around Asia taking part. Crew are coming from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines regionally – as well as a strong showing from Thailand – and also from as far afield as the UK, USA, Australia and New Zealand,’ said Mr. Byron Jones, Managing Director of organisers Media Business Services (MBS).
The increase in the number of international boats and crew, together with an increase in charterers who fly in and charter a local boat to race, is encouraging for the future of the event, and also for Phuket and the Panwa area.
Phuket Raceweek attracts approximately 500 sailors and family members each year, and while the Regatta is four-days long, participants and their families often come for longer, choosing to either arrive early or stay on after the Regatta. The revenue from travel, accommodation , dining and entertainment is considerable during Phuket’s summer season, and goes direct into the local economy.
‘The multi-day nature of regattas means they generate significant revenues for the local economy in which they are held. Looking at the participants this year, and taking into account residents competing and those coming from overseas, we estimate Raceweek will generate 1,800 room nights for Phuket. Add to that travel, food, drink and entertainment, and the tourism dollars are considerable,’ commented Jones.