Style Edit: When local yacht owners raced in the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2023, the French boatbuilder’s annual competition bringing together the stylish set to meet, compete – and party

Dec 5 , 2023

Beneteau sailing yachts during the annual Beneteau Cup Hong Kong, held this year in October. Photos: Handout

Boats from a Beneteau First 265 to a Figaro Beneteau 3 left from the Aberdeen Boat Club clubhouse, with Tracy and Easy Breezy winning their classes in front of Beneteau’s sales director Asia-Pacific, Erwan Her

Hong Kong dealer Simpson Marine organised the event which was supported by a number of sponsors including Aon, Peters & May, Devialet and Fortnum & Mason

Since 1884, Beneteau has been the choice of the discerning sailor, offering a winning combination of stylish, clean, ergonomic design, alongside legendary durability.

The French boatbuilder also gives owners of its vessels a regular chance to race them competitively at regattas around the world. Since 2021, Beneteau owners in the region have had a dedicated event where they can test their sailing skills and meet other owners at the annual Beneteau Cup Hong Kong.

Attendees, owners and sailors gather for the annual Beneteau Cup Hong Kong

So it was that on October 28, a total of 19 Beneteau yachts set sail from Middle Island, off the south coast of Hong Kong Island, on a pleasantly warm and breezy morning. Boats ranging from a Beneteau First 265 to a Figaro Beneteau 3 departed from the Aberdeen Boat Club clubhouse at 10.30am, racing over a course of around 12 nautical miles. Tracy and Easy Breezy II ended up as winners of their respective classes, with the latter taking home the overall prize.

Beneteau sailing yachts during the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong

Organised by Beneteau’s Hong Kong dealer Simpson Marine, the event helped to unite the local sailing community, with the competitive action followed by a raucous party that continued until after nightfall.

“We are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the Beneteau Cup, marking another remarkable event that brought together Beneteau owners and friends from the region,” said Beneteau’s sales director Asia-Pacific, Erwan Her. “This third edition took place in a vibrant atmosphere where sailors enjoyed racing and partying all day long. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their contributions in making this event a great success.”

All smiles for one of the 19 teams that sailed in the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2023

The event was only possible because of the contributions of generous sponsors and partners. They include 5G communications partner China Mobile Hong Kong; marine partners Aon, ePropulsion, Peters & May and Raymarine; award partners Amorepacific, Aesop, CleanMax, De’Longhi, Devialet, EME, Fortnum & Mason, Frette, HILX, Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy, Humansa, Koot, L’Imperatrice, Minuty, Oliver James, Paul Lafayet and Supergoop; and charity partner Splash Foundation. Together, they helped make the day an unforgettable landmark in the city’s sailing development.