6 Sailing Regattas For The Salty Dog In All Of Us

PHOTO: The 2012 America's Cup was held in San Francisco. (Courtesy of Thinkstock)

Fierce winds and the ebb of the ocean are the forces behind these six yacht regattas. And thanks to Poseidon for forming huge waves, watching yachts of all shapes and sizes bob and weave to the finish lines is just as exciting as cruising in the boats. However, the need to win trumps all as sailors and yachtmen alike join forces to be the best amid the roar of the sea.

Thailand: Phuket King’s Cup Regatta

The howling winds blowing against the vast sea paints the perfect picture for the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, Asia’s iconic yacht race.  On Nov. 29 to Dec. 6 the azure Andaman Sea will be wonderfully speckled with dozens of keelboats and catamarans heading towards the finish line in hopes of taking home the prestigious Phuket King’s Cup. 

After all, the regatta is held in honor of His Majesty the King of Thailand’s birthday.  And what an appreciation this is, with exciting beach parties and fans cheering from the shores for the many sailors conquering the waterways.  The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta has come a long way since its initial voyages in 1987, and thanks to the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organising Committee, it has become Asia’s greatest Regatta.

Australia: Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race                                                                    

With over 620 nautical miles to cover, the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is one of Australia’s most renowned sport events, and it is easy to see why. Yachters from around the world anxiously hop aboard their maxi yachts, tonners and other great boats from Sydney Harbour to become a celebrated victor in this amazing water race. 

Taking their marks on Dec. 26, some will brave the roughest waves and others will pass through Tasman Light as they beautifully dot the vast ocean to have their names proudly mentioned at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia's clubhouse, achieve line honors or become overall winners. The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is a must-see sporting even that rivals some of the greatest in the world.

Worldwide: America’s Cup

Although this world-class blue water sport occurs every few years, it is one of the most respected competitions in the world. That’s because the most prominent yachtsmen can be found puffing out their chests here, especially with a coveted award like the America’s Cup, also known as the “Auld Mug” up for grabs. 

The America’s Cup is yachting contest that occurs between the defender (winner of the last race) and a challenger, who steps in for the yacht club they are representing. As long as a yacht club meets the requirements to compete they can challenge the defender, who also chooses where the water race will happen. 

With a history dating back to the early 1850s, even yacht designers are known to make an appearance with the latest stylish yachts in tow. The next America’s Cup match is slated for 2017, and there’s no time like the present to prepare for this grand rivalry amid the seas.

England: Cowes Week

The spirit of yachting is in the air, which means Cowes Week is in full affect. European sailors with determined looks on their faces join thousands of competitors as they coast between England and the Isle Wright, shouting bon voyage to competitors left in their dust. This year, Cowes Week will take place on Aug. 2 to Aug. 4, but sailors aren’t the only ones who’ll have all the fun.   

Entertainment is guaranteed to be within reach of the renowned regatta, but visitors can also enjoy a cruise of their own onboard an extravagant boat or enjoy the Cowes’ amazing fireworks presentation. But of course you won’t want to miss this British sailing spectacle, which has hit the waterways since 1826 and continues to be a success with 40 races exciting the massive crowds daily. 

Caribbean: The Aruba International Regatta

With the Caribbean sun in the sky and the turquoise waters of Surfside Beach at your feet, the tropical beauty of Aruba is the perfect backdrop for the Aruba International Regatta on Aug. 15, 16, and 17.  During this sporting show, some 80 yachts glide the ocean between Oranjestad and Aruba International Airport to be the undefeated champs as huge waves smash against the boats as an attempt to steer them off course. 

However, spectators aren’t only obliged to look to the sea for action. There will also be a competition geared towards boat builders who’d like to show off their innovative boat building skills.  And if you’re instantly motivated by the sailors cruising the deep blue, feel the wind in your hair on a canoe adventure that will be provided by Aruba Outrigger Paddle School. 

Corinthian Classic Yacht Regatta

When you’ve claimed to be the destination that birthed the American Navy, of course you’d want to uphold your nautical legacy.  And Marblehead, Massachusetts continues to make a big splash in the heart of the ocean with the Corinthian Classic Yacht Regatta. 

On Aug. 8-10, the roar of the ocean will beckon local and international yachtsmen to set sail in the race of a lifetime, which will require sailors to use their best skills. The Corinthian Classic Yacht Regatta is located in one of New England’s premier sailing capitals, and it promises to be an exhilarating experience for both sailors and spectators as they look towards the sea for inspiration.