What is the China Cup?
The China Cup International Regatta is the world's newest and most ambitious yachting festival, held in the southern city of Shenzhen.
Who organizes it?
The Chinese Yachting Association, the Executive Office of Organizing Committee for the Shenzhen 26th Summer Universiade, and the Shenzhen Across Four Oceans Business Consulting Co.,Ltd.
How many boats take part?
In the first year, 2007, 1000 sailors representing more than 60 teams from around the world took part, sailing either their or our specially purchased Beneteau First 40.7 boats to create a one design event, and we will be welcoming even more competitors this year and in future years. For 2008 we are expecting 150 boats and crews from more than 20 countries.
Why does China need a regatta?
Sailing is becoming increasingly popular in China as the economy develops and people’s incomes grow.Naturally China wants to host an event to join the international yachting community and welcome crews from around the world.
What is the aim of China Cup in the future?
We aim to become bigger and better each year, investing more in infrastructure, boats and training facilities.
How can I take part – do I need any qualifications? Is it open to all sailors? Do I need to be a professional?
China Cup 2008 is open to entries from local and international sailors (and crew) who may be representing a country/city/club or simply an individual boat owner.
Eligible boats shall be seaworthy, monohull boats of not less than 8.5m length overall (LOA) excluding bowsprit and/or bumpkin.
What if there are more crews than available boats?
The use of the boats will be on a first-come, first-get basis. But we will also take into consideration the experience and competency of the crews as well in deciding who will get the boats.
What type of races will be held?
There will be a passage race between Hong Kong and Shenzhen and inshore races in Daya Bay east of Shenzhen. Racing classes include one design, bareboat charter and sports boat. Full details will be published as soon as we have them.
Is it open to people who don’t sail – can I just watch?
Yes, Daya Bay offers great opportunities for spectators to watch the inshore races and we aim to provide spectator boats this year to increase the range of viewing opportunities.
What else is happening?
We will be organizing a variety of other sporting and cultural events to create a regatta you will enjoy and remember for years to come. Details of these will appear on the website as we plan them.
I want to become a sponsor, what should I do?
Contact our sponsorship team (click here) who will be able to tell you how you can get involved and what benefits you can gain.
Is it easy to travel around China?
Yes, China has opened up rapidly in recent years, and transport links are efficient with frequent modern aircraft and new high-speed trains linking major cities. You just need a visa to enter the country, including crossing the border between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.
What is accommodation like?
Most major cities including Shenzhen now offer a range of international luxury hotels such as Sheraton, Crowne Plaza etc as well as domestic hotel chains.
What is the food like?
Chinese food varies with many different styles eg Cantonese, Sichuan (spicy), Hunan, all available in Shenzhen together with many western and international options. You will have no trouble finding something you like.
What is the weather like?
Shenzhen has a sub-tropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers. In October the weather is pleasant and ideal for sailing with north-east monsoon winds.
Do people speak English?
More than 300 million Chinese people are learning English and increasingly in the major cities such as Shenzhen you will find people who speak – and want to practice - their English, especially in foreign-run hotels, restaurants, shops and businesses. However it is still useful to carry a phrase book around with you.
