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Nautor Swan partners Rolex China Sea Race
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Represented regionally by Sanlorenzo Asia Pacific, Nautor Swan has become an Official Event Partner of Asia’s leading offshore race.
Swan 56 Parnassus at the Rolex China Sea Race 2024; Photo: Rolex / Andrea Francolini
Nautor Swan has been named an Official Event Partner of the 2026 and 2028 editions of the Rolex China Sea Race. Organised by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club since 1962 and sanctioned by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, the Rolex China Sea Race is a 565nm Category 1 Offshore Race from Hong Kong to Subic Bay in the Philippines.
The race partnership marks a significant first step in Nautor Swan’s expansion strategy in Asia-Pacific under Sanlorenzo, as it seeks to strengthen its connection with the local sailing community while aligning the brand with a defining event on the international racing calendar.
The 2026 Rolex China Sea will begin on Wednesday, March 4, with the location prizegiving held in Subic Bay on March 8 followed by the official prizegiving in Hong Kong on March 18.
This year, returning competitors include Philip Turner’s Reichel Pugh 66 Alive, which set the current monohull race record in 47 hours, 31 minutes and 8 seconds, while two Swan yachts, the Swan 45 Mazu and Swan 56 Parnassus, are among the fleet.
With the new race partnership aiming to cultivate a stronger, more engaged community of Swan owners in the region, a dedicated award will be awarded to the top-performing Swan yacht, adding a new layer of friendly competition.
Daniele Lucà, CEO of Sanlorenzo Asia Pacific / Simpson Marine, said: “Partnering with the Rolex China Sea Race is a natural step for Nautor Swan in Asia-Pacific and reflects our deep commitment to sailing. The Rolex China Sea Race is precisely the kind of challenge that Swan owners relish. These are sailors who appreciate not only the beauty and comfort of their yachts but also their inherent capability to perform in demanding offshore conditions.
“This notable alliance is also a key part of our strategy in Asia-Pacific. We see tremendous potential in this region. We are dedicated to investing in the sailing community here, creating world-class experiences that showcase our shared passion for the sea and for competitive sailing, building on Simpson Marine’s strong sailing pedigree in the region.”
ClubSwan 28 Fleet racing in Bonifacio, France; Photo: Studio Borlenghi
The Rolex China Sea Race partnership is also a timely tribute to Nautor Swan’s six-decade legacy, as the Finnish builder celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. From the iconic Swan 65 Sayula II, winner of the inaugural Whitbread Round the World Race, to the modern ClubSwan racing fleet, Nautor Swan’s DNA is deeply rooted in adventure and competition.
ClubSwan offers a global calendar of one-design, rating regattas and events, fostering a vibrant community of passionate sailors, while the ClubSwan 28, 36, 43 and 50 continue to excel on one-design racing circuits worldwide.
This year, the Swan community will compete at the Swan Regional Series, the Swan Maxi Series, June’s Swan Heritage Reunion in Capraia, Italy and the second Swan Asian Regatta at Riviera Zushi Marina in Japan. However, the highlight of the year will be the 23rd Rolex Swan Cup from September 14-19 in Porto Cervo, where over 100 Swan yachts are expected to gather.
Rolex Swan Cup 2024 at Porto Cervo; Photo: Studio Borlenghi
By also aligning with the Rolex China Sea Race, Nautor Swan is not only enhancing Asia’s most prestigious offshore race but also creating a catalyst to grow the brand’s presence and build a vibrant Swan community in the region.
Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Group, said: “Nautor Swan has always been synonymous with the world’s most prestigious sailing events. From our own Rolex Swan Cup in the Mediterranean to challenging offshore races across the globe, Swan yachts are built for sailors who seek adventure and performance.
“The Rolex China Sea Race is a legendary event that perfectly embodies this spirit. This partnership is a testament to our global commitment to the sport and our desire to support the growing community of Swan owners in Asia-Pacific. We are excited to bring the same passion and dedication that defines the Swan experience worldwide to this exceptional race, creating a new focal point for our international family of sailors.”
