11:23 AM Mon 5 Apr 2010 GMT
Eighty three boats are set to compete across five different courses at Sail Port Stephens 2010, and with a few late entries still trickling in, organisers anticipate that the fleet could finish in the high eighties in the event's third year.
After an exponential 160% increase in 2009, the projections for this year were for between 80 and 90 boats, a level of support and interest that the Regatta Organising Committee are delighted with.
'Our 2010 fleet is another very healthy increase and is a clear demonstration that our formula is working - it's a great week of sailing in a gorgeous location with accommodation and entertainment within an affordable price range for everyone' said Event Spokesperson, Jody O'Brien.
The division that has attracted the most newcomers this year has been the Commodores Cup fleet, and this is a trend that O'Brien is confident will continue.
'The cruisey start to the week with the Commodores Cup is such an enjoyable couple of days, and everyone seems to just have a relaxed, friendly and all smiles kind of day, every day' she said.
If three days of cruiser racing is enough, at the back end of the week from Friday to Sunday, there's the opportunity to change tack completely and contest the Yachting NSW IRC State Championship or go PHS Racing in the Port Stephens Trophy - or just keep enjoying more of the same in the Port Stephens Trophy Cruising Division.
The social activities on offer in 2010 are unique, and entertaining, with the Yachties Bus in full swing each night to get you safely to and from the function venue.
There's the oppoprtunity to hear an interesting history of possibly one of the most constant things in a yachtie's life - Rum....and get the opportunity to sample it with something other than Coke, when the boys from Holey Dollar Rum settle in for a chat with Special Guest MC Ian Cover from the ABC's Coodabeen Champions over a Long Lazy Lunch on the Lay Day Thursday at Peppers.
As well as a delicious lunch in a waterfront location, you'll experience a range of rum samplers under the direction of the Holey Dollar Rum connoisseurs, who have a fascinating tale to tell of their new product that's already winning nationally recognised awards.
Or if you've ever wondered what it might be like to be part of an America's Cup syndicate, get your tickets to the Tyrrells Yachties Ball on Friday night at the Nelson Bay Diggers Club to hear Olympic medallist and World Champion, Glenn Ashby talk about his incredible experiences coaching the crew of the BMW Oracle 90 foot multi hull to a triumphant and decisive win.
Tickets for both functions, as well as everything else social at Sail Port Stephens are available on line, and numbers are limited, so secure your table of ten or individual tickets today.
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Glenn Ashby will share his experiences coaching the America's Cup crew - Sail Port Stephens - Vanessa Dudley
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Late entries will still be taken right up til the event starts, but with a penalty fee attached.
For more information, go to
www.sailportstephens.com.au
by Event Media
Click on thumbnails to enlarge and find more photos:
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Manly, QLD
