Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is underway again this week with a total of 168 boats entering from over 35 countries around the world.
The full complement of classes for the 2012 race year include IRC Zero (international ‘Grand Prix’ boats), the highly competitive IRC1, IRC2, IRC3, Premier, Sport Boats, Modern Classic, Bareboat Charter, Multihull, Firefly 850 Sports, Classic and Cruising Class.
The event is also famed for its series of legendary beachside parties, attracting over 1,500 party-goers who enjoy the live music, great atmosphere and food and drink provided by the Regatta’s sponsors.
As one of the longest running international sporting events in Phuket, the Regatta generates significant revenue for the local economy, generating approximately THB40 million (US$1.3 million) in tourism receipts, according to a survey by the organisers. When travel, excursions and repeat visits during the year are factored in, the economic contribution of the event is estimated to be in the region of THB300 million.