Here’s something you may not have known about the exotic and entrancing island of Phuket. That while there are many temptations to lure you to its balmy shores throughout the year, the Thai island is home to Asia’s largest and most popular boating event.
The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is a diary highlight for December every year, drawing yacht owners, boating enthusiasts and eager spectators by the planeload to enjoy the waters of the Andaman Sea and the complementary activities.
The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta began in 1987 as a celebration for His Majesty the King of Thailand’s then 60th birthday. It was such a drawcard for Phuket that it immediately became an annual event for the first week of December, hosting Thailand’s elite, the Royal Thai Navy, official entrants, hoards of tourists and yachtsmen and women.
The international yachting event is the ideal platform for a week of sailing, partying and mixing with the beautiful people and well-known sailing personalities. A highlight of the Asian yacht-racing calendar, it’s also lots of fun, with the naturally friendly Thai locals putting on the charm and local festivities to make the occasion even grander.
The waters off Kata Beach become abuzz with boats as they are typically anchored off the beach for the occasion. Visitors can enjoy a visual spectacle at Kata Beach as dinghies ferry folk back and forth to their vessels, while event participants vie for a place in the royal race that boasts His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej as its patron.
Take Part As a Crewmember
Each year, you’ll find that many of the yachts are under-crewed. Therefore if you’ve had any boating experience yourself, you may be welcomed aboard to help out during a day on the water.
If you prefer to stay dry, you can enjoy one of the many celebratory banquets hosted during the event, which are often followed by enthusiastic revelling well into the night. Enjoy live music, fireworks and traditional Thai dance displays during this exciting time of year.
View The Race From Your Own Private Kata Villa
Villa Getaways offers a range of stunning luxury villas to use as a base while you enjoy the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta racing festivities. Even better, these accommodations based in Kata so you’re likely to spy a yacht or two from your prestige residence.
Here are our top five Kata Beach villas to whet your Thailand travel appetite:
VILLA 401
With private beach access to anchor your own mooring and an expansive view over the entirety of Kata Beach and the bay beyond, you’re guaranteed a crystal clear view of the activities on the water. With a stunning viewing deck for sunset cocktails, you can almost reach out and touch the boats, while you enjoy the lap of luxury during your stay in this six-bedroom villa.
VILLA 404
The master suite of this five-bedroom masterpiece looks directly across to the Andaman Sea, making it an ideal choice for viewing the King’s Cup from the comfort of your own luxury residence. A standout feature is the large infinity pool, surrounded by grassed terrace and outdoor sala overlooking Kata Beach. Perfect for lazing while you watch the yachts sail by.
VILLA 4129
Magnificent sea views are a feature of all four bedrooms in this luxury Kata villa, making it a wonderful location to take in the splendor of the King’s Cup Regatta. Nestled up high on a headland between Kata Noi and Kata Yai beaches, this luxury residence is close to all amenities, including the award-winning Mom Tri’s Kitchen, ideal for daytime dining while taking in the regatta action.
VILLA 421
Make this stunning luxury villa your home away from home for the duration of the Phuket King’s Cup. With elegant styling and expansive views over the Andaman Sea, this six-bedroom resort-style treasure offers the ultimate in 5-star luxury. Spacious living areas overlook the infinity pool with the exquisite ocean view beyond. You’ll want to hold your own regatta party in this exclusive state-of-the-art Kata residence.
VILLA 429
Look no further than this prestigious Phuket address when booking your accommodation for the King’s Cup Regatta. Blending traditional Thai architecture with contemporary luxury living, this eight-bedroom villa sleeps up to 16 guests comfortably. Completely renovated in 2014, the interior attention to detail is complemented by spectacular ocean views from this outstanding property.
Contact the experienced team at Villa Getaways to secure your luxury private booking in time to enjoy the boating action this December.
Words by Jennifer McCarthy @ JM Online Copywriting