Top of the Gulf Regatta presented by Ocean Marina has become an award-winning multi-class regatta held annually in the Gulf of Thailand. Homed at Ocean Marina Yacht Club, the regatta has morphed from its humble roots into one of the largest sailing events in Asia today. It attracts sailors of all abilities and ages from more than 25 countries each year.
Founded in 2005, the 2018 Top of the Gulf Regatta presented by Ocean Marina will take place 27th April 27 – May 1. Owned and organised by Ocean Property, the regatta is hosted by Ocean Marina Yacht Club with support from the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, Royal Thai Navy, Royal Varuna Yacht Club and Pattaya City.
The regatta is the largest multi-class sailing event of its kind in Asia, incorporating the Coronation Cup and the Thailand National Optimist Championships.
Recent awards include: Best Amateur Sports Event of the Year in Thailand (Asian Sports Industry Awards 2016); Asian Regatta of the Year (Asian Marine & Boating Awards 2014); Best Marina Development in Asia (Christofle Yacht Style Awards 2018) for Ocean Marina Yacht Club; and Best Marina in Thailand 2017 (Asian Lifestyle Tourism Awards) for Ocean Marina Yacht Club.
Here are five reasons why you should visit the 14th Top of the Gulf Regatta.
1) Close And Competitive Racing
Top of the Gulf Regatta is known for its international standard race management and close and competitive racing across all classes. Separate race courses and on-water race officials for the Optimists, dinghy fleets, and keelboat and multihull fleets, ensures the best race experience for all competitors.
2) Inclusive Regatta – Racing For All
Top of the Gulf Regatta attracts a diverse range of boats across 12 classes, from Optimists, single-handed and double-handed dinghies to one-design Platus, cruisers, IRC yachts and multihulls. There’s even a radio-controlled class which this year will see more than 20 competitors.
Sailors that take part are also varied ranging from youngsters to past Olympians and regional champions, sailing pros and weekend sailors. The event caters for all, both on and off the water, and offers fun and competitive racing in a warm and friendly environment.
3) The Après-Regatta Scene
Regattas in Thailand are famous for their onshore parties and Thai hospitality, and Top of the Gulf Regatta is no different. With a focus on the outdoors, sailors gather each evening on the lawn, discuss the day’s action, and enjoy the select free-flow drinks each night. With a comprehensive social programme that is all-inclusive in the entry fee, the regatta finishes with a sumptuous gala dinner under the stars right on the marina front hosted by Ocean Marina Yacht Club.
4) Make A Holiday Of It
Pattaya is easily accessible from Bangkok and just 15 minutes away from Ocean Marina Yacht Club is U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport which services international flights from Air Asia, Qatar Airways, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air and more. Once in Pattaya there’s plenty to do for crews and families. Either side of the regatta you can explore the stunning coastline and offshore islands, quiet coves and idyllic beaches, while onshore you can visit the nearby vineyard, enjoy the country’s best waterparks, visit Thai temples and explore the excellent dining options, all of which are close by Ocean Marina Yacht Club.
5) Safe And Secure Marina Home
At the heart of Top of the Gulf Regatta is its home, Ocean Marina Yacht Club. All participating keelboats and multihulls are allocated a wet berth free of charge for the duration of the regatta. Within five minutes of boarding crews will be out of the marina and on their way to the start, and once the day’s racing is finished crews can tie up to the dock and enjoy the onshore functions with peace of mind their yacht is safe and secure.
