Samui Regatta 2026 Opens on 23 May — What Visitors Need to Know

The 23rd Samui Regatta gets underway on 23 May 2026, turning the waters off Chaweng Beach into one of Asia’s most competitive sailing arenas for a full week. Organised by the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, the event runs through 30 May and draws over a hundred competitors from across the region and beyond — making the last week of May one of the liveliest on Koh Samui’s calendar.

What Happens on the Water

Racing is split across three main classes: IRC Open, Cruising, and Multihull. Tactical inshore races run daily through the Gulf of Thailand from 25 to 29 May. The week opens with registration and an Opening Party on 23 May, followed by a practice race on 24 May, before competitive racing begins in earnest. A final race and Closing Awards Party on 30 May brings proceedings to a close.

Spectating Is Free

Non-sailors can follow the action from Chaweng Beach at no cost. The start and finish lines are clearly visible from the shore, and the beach bars and restaurants along the strip fill early on race evenings. Arriving by mid-afternoon secures a good viewing spot for the day’s concluding race.

Book Accommodation Now

Koh Samui’s hotels fill quickly around regatta week. Beachfront properties close to the race course — particularly along Chaweng — are likely to have limited availability this late. Quieter guesthouses a short distance inland remain an option, but these also move fast. Our guide to the best hotels on Koh Samui covers the full range from budget to luxury.

Weather During Regatta Week

The regatta falls at the start of the wet season on the island’s west coast, though Chaweng, on the east, typically receives less rainfall at this time of year. Morning conditions are generally hot and clear, with afternoon squalls possible. Sailors consider the period excellent for racing — those coming to spectate should pack a light rain layer for afternoons.

Getting to Koh Samui

Bangkok Airways operates multiple direct daily flights from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Koh Samui Airport (USM), with journey times of around one hour. Flights from other major Thai cities and several international hubs also serve the island. For ideas on what to explore beyond the regatta itself, our guides to things to do on Koh Samui and Koh Samui’s best beaches cover the island in full.

Travelling to Thailand this month more broadly? Our Thailand in May guide covers weather conditions across the country, public holidays, and other events running alongside the regatta.