Setouchi International Yacht Rally preview
by John Martin on 11 Feb 2015
Setouch International Yacht Rally 2015 SW
Setouchi International Yacht Rally - Long time members Colin and Marion on Avant Garde got the opportunity of a lifetime sailing on the Setouchi Yacht Rally and spend some time cruising the Japanese Inland Sea, they loved it and the rally is being run again this year. Here are a few comments from Colin.
Two years ago we were invited by some friends to crew on Japanese yachts through the inland sea, because the inviting friends were drunk on skype and we said yes we were committed. Best thing we ever did, we tied our boat up in Langkawi somewhere, took our chances with air asia and flew to Hiroshima for a three week insight into real Japanese culture, food and its people. In between that we motor sailed the inland sea and had more than a few parties.
We both enjoyed Japan so much that we turned east from Langkawi and sailed to Japan ourselves, we spent five months cruising the southern Japanese islands to arrive at the inland sea in time for last years rally. This was a rerun of the year before but in our own boat.
The plan is to run the rally annually, with a mix of foreign boats and local yachts. Japan is a country of massive history, beautiful sights food and people. There are a few surprises, we would recommend anyone to take up the opportunity to join the rally for September 2015. Remember the exact cost will not be known until you finish, the exact route may change and the boat you end up on could be anything from 30 ft to 65ft in length and varying comfort levels. So be prepared for surprises of which every single one is pleasant, if not unexpected.
We are heading on to Alaska this year but have just loved our time in Japan, we recommend it as a destination in itself for your own yacht or jump at this opportunity if you are just a little adventurous, not afraid to change plans at about 5 seconds notice and want to see a truly beautiful Asian country.
They only accept entries from about 10 foreign people so if you are serious don’t muck around here.
Organizer : Long Distance Voyagers Association in Japan Setouchi International Yacht Rally
website. Inquiry : siyr2015@wavewind.com
If you want to link to this article then please use this URL: www.sail-world.com/131484