100 days to go until the Rolex China Sea Race 2026
by Vivian Ngan 24 Nov 2025 23:29 NZDT
4 March 2026
Rolex China Sea Race 2024 © Rolex / Andrea Francolini
The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club proudly announces the official 100-day countdown to the Rolex China Sea Race 2026, one of Asia's most prestigious offshore sailing events.
On 4 March 2026, the race will set sail from Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour, launching an exhilarating 565-nautical-mile journey across the South China Sea to Subic Bay in the Philippines.
Among the returning competitors is Mondher Latiri's Pogo 36, Gutsy, the historic first-ever entry from Chinese Taipei in the 2024 Rolex China Sea Race.
First held in 1962, the Rolex China Sea Race has earned its reputation as a true test of skill, endurance, and strategy, attracting world-class sailors and yachts from around the globe. This biennial event combines challenging conditions with breathtaking scenery, offering competitors an unforgettable offshore racing experience.
Over the decades, the race has continued to captivate the international yachting community, cementing its status as an Asian blue-water classic. It has garnered numerous accolades, including Best Asian Regatta at the Asia Boating Awards, and remains a flagship event for Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.
The 2026 edition marks the 64th anniversary of this Offshore Category 1 Race, organised by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club—one of Hong Kong's oldest and most prestigious sailing institutions. Competitors will once again face the ultimate challenge: a 565nm passage across the South China Sea, starting from Hong Kong's spectacular harbour and finishing in Subic Bay.
Commodore of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Adrian Pang commented: "The Rolex China Sea Race is more than a competition; it's a celebration of seamanship and adventure. Each edition brings together sailors from around the world to experience the unique challenges and beauty of the South China Sea. We are thrilled to welcome the fleet back to Hong Kong for this iconic event."
For those eager to join this extraordinary adventure, the Notice of Race and online entry system are now available on the official Rolex China Sea Race website. Interested participants are encouraged to submit their applications early to secure their place. The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club looks forward to welcoming the fleet in March and continuing the proud tradition of this iconic race.
The Notice of Race can be found on the official Rolex China Sea Race website here.