Volvo Ocean Race Coming to Hong Kong

Published on April 13th, 2016

(April 13, 2016) – Hong Kong will host the Volvo Ocean Race for the first time when the event visits in February 2018 during its 13th edition.

Race organisers announced in a press conference today a unique collaboration with the Hong Kong Sailing Federation which will bring the event to Hong Kong’s iconic Victoria Harbour. The world’s toughest offshore race will transform the old airport in Kai Tak – where a Race Village will offer activities for both sailing fans and those new to the sport.

An in-port race will also be held in the port before the boats leave for the next leg.

Anthony Day, Hong Kong Sailing Federation Council Member and RHKYC Rear Commodore Sailing, said: “Offshore yacht racing doesn’t get any more exciting or prestigious than the Volvo Ocean Race and this stopover will put Hong Kong firmly on the map as an international sailing venue.

“We look forward to welcoming the fleet to our waters and to introducing the skippers and crews to a generation of Hongkongers who, I hope, will be inspired to get out there and involved in the sport.”

Antonio Bolaños López, acting CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race, noted: “I’d like to pay a special tribute to the Hong Kong Sailing Federation and the Hong Kong government for making our dreams of bringing the race here a reality.”

The 13th edition of the world’s toughest offshore race will begin in Autumn 2017. Additional port confirmations and route information are still to be announced.

Current stopovers announced for the 2017-18 edition has the route beginning in Alicante (ESP) and thus far is presumed to be stopping in this order: Lisbon (POR), Cape Town (RSA), Hong Kong (HKG), Auckland (NZL), Newport (USA), Cardiff (GBR), Gothenburg (SWE), and finishing in The Hague (NED).