Sailing A-listers hit Phuket King's Cup Regatta

Those lucky enough to be in Phuket right now should get their rears out of those beach loungers for a few hours and check out the world-class sailing going on at the 23rd Phuket King's Cup Regatta, which ends Saturday at Kata Beach.

According to organizers, this year’s event brought in a record fleet of 111 boats, with 936 registered sailors taking part to make it the biggest sailing fleet the Regatta has ever seen. In fact, Beijing Olympics aside, this is the biggest fleet of racing keel boats Asia has ever seen.

The team everyone’s watching at this year’s Regatta is “Full Metal Jacket.” Not only do they have the coolest name, but some of the world’s greatest racers.

Led by Hong Kong-based New Zealander Chris Meads, the Corby 43 Full Metal Jacket features sailing rock stars who have raced in the America’s Cup, including superstar Chris Dickson.

The first King’s Cup Regatta was held in 1987, created to honor His Majesty the King of Thailand’s December 5 birthday as the king is famous for his love of sailing.  This year’s race finals take place Saturday, wrapping up with an evening awards ceremony and party at Kata Beach Resort and Spa.