What is Phuket King’s Cup Regatta?
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta or PKCR is the biggest regatta or boat race in Asia held annually in Phuket. It began in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of the King of Thailand and is organised by Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee with the patronage of Royal Varuna Yacht Club (RVYC). You can view boats of all shapes and sizes participating in the event on the western coast of the Phuket island. The logistic help is procured from Royal Thai Navy and Yacht Racing Association of Thailand (YRAT).
The ‘Asia’s Biggest Sailing Race’ takes place during the first week of December in the Andaman Ocean and is all about sailing, partying and having fun. This yachting festival is famous throughout the world, hence, attracts the best yachtsmen and yachtswomen from the world to Kata Beach.
Candle-lighting ceremony at Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
One of the highlights of PKCR is the candle-lighting ceremony conducted for celebrating the King’s birthday in front of Boathouse Resort on Kata Beach. The sight is impressive with a 1000 skippers along with their crews holding candles as the coir sings the Thai national anthem. Many yachts invite people with a sailing experience to complete their crew. A tourist must not miss this awesome experience, party tickets are also given to the participants.
Sailing in Phuket is considered as one of the best experiences of sailing the Andaman Sea. Phuket is known for its beautiful islands, beaches and clear waters as well as a stunning landscape, which attracts most of the tourists visiting Thailand. The warm weather in Phuket attracts the people of cold countries in winters along with the many secluded islands.
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Schedule for 2018
Saturday, Dec 1: Registration & Measurement
Sunday, Dec 2: Registration & Practice Race
Monday-Saturday, Dec 3-8: 5-Days Racing + Reserve Day
Saturday, Dec 8: Prize Giving and Closing Ceremony
