The inaugural VPS Cup Fareast 19R Open and International Sailing Regatta concluded on 19 July with Japan's Shinmoji Marina Yacht Club claiming the overall title. The three-day event, held in Nha Trang Bay, brought together nine teams from six countries, including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The regatta was part of the Khanh Hoa Sea Festival 2026 and aimed to promote the region as a destination for sailing and tourism. The race not only introduced a new sports tourism product but also highlighted Nha Trang Bay as a vibrant, welcoming, and modern destination for international visitors.
A new chapter for Vietnamese sailing
Bui Anh Tuan, Director of Seanata Sailing Yacht and Technical Services Joint Stock Company and Head of the Tournament Organizing Committee, noted that this was the first time Nha Trang - Khanh Hoa hosted an international regatta and also the first time Vietnam held a competition using FE19R boats. The event took place from 17 to 19 July, and competitors raced along the shore between Nha Trang Centre and Hon Tre Island, completing nine races over the three-day span. This marked a significant milestone for both the local organizing committee and the broader sailing community in Vietnam, showcasing the country's growing interest in maritime sports and tourism.
Nha Trang Bay's reputation as a prime sailing location was praised by several participants. Yuya Yoshino from Japan's Shinmoji Marina Yacht Club described the infrastructure at Ana Marina, the sailing conditions, and the beauty of the bay as impressive. Despite light winds during the opening days, Yoshino and his team said the experience was unforgettable. The consistent breeze and excellent facilities made it a unique and appealing destination for sailing clubs seeking high-quality competition experiences.
Growing presence in the region
Simon, a German national who lives in Vietnam and competed for the VPS Vietnam racing team, expressed excitement about taking part in the event in Nha Trang. He said the experience was fantastic and highlighted the city’s natural beauty and sailing opportunities. Simon, who has lived in Vietnam for over a decade, emphasized how rare it is for a major sailing event to be held in such a scenic and well-connected region. His comments reflect the broader sentiment among participants who saw the regatta as a chance to explore a new and promising sailing location.
According to leaders of the Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Khanh Hoa's favorable weather and long coastline make it ideal for hosting international maritime events. The province has already organized several major competitions, including the Sea Star Nha Trang ocean swimming tournament, My Hoa international kitesurfing tournament, and the VPS Cup Fareast 19R Open & International Sailing Regatta. These events have helped establish Khanh Hoa as a key player in the international sports and tourism calendar. The success of the recent regatta suggests that the region can become a regular hub for large-scale maritime events.
The RHKYC Hong Kong to Vietnam Race, held since 1996, has also used Nha Trang as its finish line. This 673nm offshore race is a favorite among Asia’s offshore sailors and is ranked as a qualifier for the Rolex Sydney-Hobart Race. The event's consistent downwind sailing conditions and challenging course have made it a staple on the international racing calendar. The presence of such a prestigious race in Nha Trang Bay underscores the location's potential for hosting major maritime events and attracting top-tier competitors from around the world.