Sizzling Sunny Social Scene Socks Samui Sailors
by Suzy Rayment, Sail World Asia on 1 Jun 2007
Zico’s Brazilian Dancers - a familiar sight at Koh Samui Regatta Koh Samui Regatta 20007 event media
Over the last five (and now, six) years the Koh Samui Regatta has gone from strength to strength. Ideal sailing conditions combined with the delightfully relaxed tropical island environment means that more and more sailors are being attracted to what is being described as one of the best sailing regattas in Asia.
With 26 yachts entered in the 2007 edition of the week-long event, and over 300 sailors in town to party, the Samui social scene is now in full swing.
The Regatta, run under the auspices of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand and supported by the Royal Thai Navy, consists of five days of racing that are a mixture of 'round the cans' and 'coastal passage' racing.
But in keeping with the unique style of the Asian Regatta Circuit the 'on water' activities are matched by an equally demanding 'off water' party schedule.
This year's Opening Cocktail Party was held as usual at Zico's Brazilian Grill and Bar, and the sailors were welcomed by Kun Decha Kangsanan, Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Navy and member of the Yachting Racing Association of Thailand.
The evening could be described as a feast for the body and eyes as Zico’s 'Brazilian girls' graced the dance floor much to the delight of the regatta participants.
A Raimon Land Happy Hour follows every day’s racing (actually Two hours), when the sailors head for the Regatta Beach Tavern at race headquarters (Central Samui Beach Resort) to swap war stories and quench a nautical thirst with free John Smiths ale and Strongbow cider ‘on tap’.
Samui Villas & Homes and Dhevatara Properties at the new Dhevatara Residence at Bophut Beach hosted regatta party number two. Entertained by the Coyote Ugly Ladies, the yachties were treated to a late night display of fireworks and graceful Chiang Mai lanterns on the beach.
Wednesday’s party action took place at Koh Samui's hottest night spot, the ultra-modern Q Bar. Sponsored by Raimon Land, mojitos and jelly shots were consumed in substantial quantities – making Thursday’s Lay Day even more appreciated by many!
Those without a hangover were treated to the Land Rover Experience, a trip into the hills of Koh Samui specially laid on for regatta participants. Experienced off-road instructors coached 4-WD novices on some steep and slippery terrain (which was great fun!) and regatta sponsor Land Rover got to showcase the style and capability of their excellent vehicles.
A stop for coffee, biscuits and a tropical fruit buffet at the very top of the island allowed the drivers to appreciate Samui from a new angle.
With two more parties left to be experienced, there is more than ample opportunity for the Koh Samui Regatta to exceed its already colourful and entertaining reputation. There’s certainly a lot more to this event than merely sailing!
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