PHUKET: The island of Phuket is ready to host the award-winning Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek from July 16-20 off the southeast coast.
The season-opening event of the prestigious 2014-15 AsianYachting 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,'' said Byron Jones, Managing Director of organisers Media Business Services (MBS).
''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, US, Australia and New Zealand.''
Geared up for a fantastic onshore experience is Cape Panwa Hotel, title sponsor and host venue, together with Kantary Bay Phuket, for the third consecutive year.
With its private pier and beachfront location, together with the five-star facilities and service, Cape Panwa Hotel delivers a regatta experience second to none, something which is echoed by the sailors.
''The Cape Panwa Hotel is a fabulous location. Its white sandy beach and expansive grass area scattered with palm trees makes an excellent setting to enjoy a few beers and catch up with all the yachties that I have become great friends with over many years,'' said Peter Ahern, owner-skipper of Oi!.
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 over four-days, 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 mean they generate significant revenues for the local economy in which they are held,'' Mr Jones said.
''Looking at the participants this year, and taking into account residents competing and those coming from overseas, we estimate raceweek will generate 1800 room nights for Phuket.
''Add to that travel, food, drink and entertainment, and the tourism dollars are considerable.''
Marine tourism and sports tourism are two segments of the tourism industry that are showing strong growth, and are identified by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as having great potential, attracting visitors with high spending power.
Phuket's world-class marine infrastructure is a major pull in attracting high-end visitors and together with the stunning cruising grounds and internationally-famous marine events, have helped make Phuket a playground for the wealthy.
''Phuket Raceweek is at the core of promoting Thailand's marine tourism and continues to help build Phuket's global reputation as a yachting hub, as well as delivering an economic return to the Island,'' Mr Jones added.
The season-opening event of the prestigious 2014-15 AsianYachting 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,'' said Byron Jones, Managing Director of organisers Media Business Services (MBS).
''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, US, Australia and New Zealand.''
Geared up for a fantastic onshore experience is Cape Panwa Hotel, title sponsor and host venue, together with Kantary Bay Phuket, for the third consecutive year.
With its private pier and beachfront location, together with the five-star facilities and service, Cape Panwa Hotel delivers a regatta experience second to none, something which is echoed by the sailors.
''The Cape Panwa Hotel is a fabulous location. Its white sandy beach and expansive grass area scattered with palm trees makes an excellent setting to enjoy a few beers and catch up with all the yachties that I have become great friends with over many years,'' said Peter Ahern, owner-skipper of Oi!.
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 over four-days, 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 mean they generate significant revenues for the local economy in which they are held,'' Mr Jones said.
''Looking at the participants this year, and taking into account residents competing and those coming from overseas, we estimate raceweek will generate 1800 room nights for Phuket.
''Add to that travel, food, drink and entertainment, and the tourism dollars are considerable.''
Marine tourism and sports tourism are two segments of the tourism industry that are showing strong growth, and are identified by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as having great potential, attracting visitors with high spending power.
Phuket's world-class marine infrastructure is a major pull in attracting high-end visitors and together with the stunning cruising grounds and internationally-famous marine events, have helped make Phuket a playground for the wealthy.
''Phuket Raceweek is at the core of promoting Thailand's marine tourism and continues to help build Phuket's global reputation as a yachting hub, as well as delivering an economic return to the Island,'' Mr Jones added.
