The 33rd edition of the China Coast Regatta, organised by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, delivered three unforgettable days of racing that showcased the best of Hong Kong’s big-boat sailing scene. With a mix of world-class competition, shifting conditions, and picture-perfect island backdrops, the regatta reaffirmed its place as one of Asia’s premier offshore events.
This year’s fleet of 20 yachts spanned four IRC Racer divisions, alongside the Premier Cruiser and PHS classes. Competitors from across Hong Kong and abroad — including Sweden, Australia, Thailand, and the UK — came together for the region’s most hotly contested big-boat regatta.
Racing at the 2025 China Coast Regatta. Photos Ⓒ RHKYC / Guy Nowell & Vivian Ngan.
Among the highlights were several impressive results from UK Sailmakers Hong Kong customers.
In IRC Racer 3, Nick Southward’s J/109 Admiralty Harbour Whiskey Jack continued its winning form, scoring six race victories across the series to secure a dominant overall win. The crew handled everything from tactical windward–leeward legs to scenic island courses with trademark precision, proving once again why Whiskey Jack remains one of Hong Kong’s most consistent performers.
The IRC Racer 1 division was among the most competitive, featuring some of Hong Kong’s top programs. Henning Mueller’s ZESST and Dennis Chien’s ARCTURUS+ both posted strong, steady results throughout the regatta. Despite a few weather-affected starts and tight mark roundings, ZESST finished on the podium in third place, while ARCTURUS+ closed just behind in fourth. Both teams showcased the versatility and balance of their UK Sailmakers inventories over a range of courses and conditions.
In IRC Racer 0, William Liu’s Fast 40+ Seawolf went head-to-head with a trio of TP52s in a fleet that pushed hard from start to finish. Seawolf’s crew delivered sharp maneuvers and impressive speed in the fresh early-day breezes, securing fourth overall against world-class competition.
Racing at the 2025 China Coast Regatta. Photos Ⓒ RHKYC / Guy Nowell & Vivian Ngan.
The final day brought a test of patience and persistence. Rain and shifting winds forced the race committee to shorten the program after light air settled over the course. Even so, UK Sailmakers teams held their ground, rounding out a regatta that combined precision sailing, challenging weather, and memorable on-water moments.
Congratulations to all our customers and crews for their standout performances across the 2025 China Coast Regatta—proof once again that UK Sailmakers delivers results in every condition.
