Thailand 2027: Ideal racing destination for ILCA and OK Dinghy sailors in January and February
by Morten Jakobsen 8 Mar 17:05 GMT
January - February 2027
Royal Varuna Yacht Club © Henry Weidmann
The Royal Varuna Yacht Club in Pattaya, Thailand has recently completed three successful events - the Open Thailand ILCA Nationals, the Varuna Masters, and the Open Thailand OK Dinghy Nationals.
The three events were organised by active sailors and were on purpose scheduled so overseas sailors in either class could join two 3 days events on a 9-10 days visit to Thailand. The format was an unqualified success, and so much fun for the many participants, that it will be extended for 2027.
The equivalent dates for 2027 will be:
- January 29-31: Thailand Open ILCA Championship (ILCA 4, 6 & 7)
- February 5-7: Varuna Masters (for sailors 35+ years; ILCA 6, 7 and OK Dinghy)
- February 13-15: Pre-worlds / Thailand Open OK Dinghy nationals
And the huge additional one:
- February 19-26 International OK Dinghy World Championship
These events are held in the beautiful venue of the Royal Varuna YC in Thailand, and are well suited for sailors trying to escape a cold winter or just want the pleasure of sailing in water which typically is 28 degrees centigrade. We must warn that sailing in Thailand can be addictive, and for example 100% of the overseas OK Dinghy sailors who participated in '26 have advised that they will return in 2027.
The organisers would in particular like to invite regional single-handed dinghy sailors to contact them with regards to potentially taking part in the OK Dinghy worlds. Per the Thailand OK Dinghy Society advise, the class is equally suitable for sailors from 70 to 115 kg body weight and is easy to adapt to for sailors familiar with an ILCA.
For the Worlds, there is a dedicated web page, see 2027.okworlds.org. and for the other three events, information including NOR will be posted on www.varuna.org