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 organized by active sailors and were scheduled with the intention to draw overseas sailors in either class to join two of the three-day events. 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

Plus an additional one:

• February 19-26: International OK Dinghy World Championship

These events are held in the club’s beautiful venue 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.

Organizers would like to extend an invitation to regional single-handed dinghy sailors familiar with ILCA sailing to consider participating in the OK Dinghy Worlds. Per the Thailand OK Dinghy Society, the class is suitable for sailors from 70 to 115 kg body weight and is an easy adaptation for sailors familiar with ILCA. Please visit 2027.okworlds.org for more information

Additional event information and NORs will be posted on www.varuna.org.