Offshore Races

Rolex China Sea Race

Asia's great offshore race, from Hong Kong to Subic Bay in the Philippines.

Run by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club since 1962, the race leaves Victoria Harbour, exits through the Lei Yue Mun channel and crosses the South China Sea over 565 miles to Subic Bay, on the north-west of Luzon. It is held every two years, around Easter or early spring, with an overall ranking on IRC corrected time. In 2026 William Liu's Ker 42 Seawolf became the first boat from mainland China to win it; in 2024 the TP52 Happy Go took both line honours and the overall win.

Start
Hong Kong
Finish
Subic Bay (Philippines)
Theoretical distance
565 nm
Frequency
Every 2 years (even years)
Classes
IRC
Next start
(to be confirmed)
Official website
rolexchinasearace.com

Recent winners

At a glance: frequently asked questions

Rolex China Sea Race: when is the next start?

The next start is scheduled for 2028 in Hong Kong. The date is still to be confirmed by the organiser.

Rolex China Sea Race: how long is the course?

The theoretical course is 565 nautical miles, from Hong Kong to Subic Bay (Philippines).

Rolex China Sea Race: who won the last edition?

William Liu on Seawolf, in 2026.

Rolex China Sea Race: which boats take the start?

Classes on the start line: IRC.

Rolex China Sea Race: how often is the race held?

Every 2 years (even years).

Indicative course: the actual route depends on the weather. Figures taken from the sources below.

Sources

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