A Boat For All Reasons
Boats of all types are welcome at the Aberdeen Boat Club. Whilst predominantly catering for dinghies and sailing yachts, the Club also has members with kayaks, rowing boats, speed boats, ski boats, cruisers, launches and power boats. Over many years of extensive therapy, the keenest sailing members have learnt to tolerate members who prefer power over wind. The Club even has a dragon boat with ABC teams competing every year in the local competitions.

Participation in other Water Activities
ABC works closely with a number of diving clubs and fishing clubs such that members have ready access to a huge range of marine activities. A number of diving clubs use the Club pool for scuba training at off-peak times. The annual summer squid fishing competition is hugely popular even with those unaccustomed to the might of the cephalopod. For further information on non-sailing options, please contact the Club office or keep your eye on the monthly Club magazine, Horizons.

A Full Year of Boating
Some of the events listed below are open to power boats, and we often call on power boat owners to support us for our bigger sailing events.

ABC Opening Regatta
Traditionally held in early September, the ABC Opening Regatta marks the start of the Hong Kong sailing calendar. With over 100 boats competing, this is one of the most spectacular sailing events in Hong Kong. Boats range from small dinghies to 80 foot racing boats, and are welcomed from clubs and schools all around Hong Kong.

Waglan Series
The Waglan Series, which runs from September until March, provides the main cruiser series for winter sailing in Hong Kong. Comprising eight races starting near Middle Island, courses are set around the wonderful islands and shorelines south of Hong Kong island. Competition is tough, with a wide range of boats participating for the silverware. Racing is held under both IRC and the local HKPN handicap systems. (Walgan Series 2007/08)

Dinghies

The Club organises a full dinghy-racing calendar, with three series of races each year (Autumn Series, Spring Series and Summer Series). Members can either sail in their own boats or they can use Club boats. If Club boats are used the member must, hold a minimum HK Marine Department Masters and Engineers License Grade II. We also enter teams for events such as the annual Hebe Haven Charity 24-hour dinghy race, the RHKYC Round-the-Island Race, and inter-club events.

Four Peaks Race
Each year around late January to early February, the ABC hosts the Four Peaks Race, one of the most challenging yet prestigious races in the region. Click here for more information

Classic Yacht Rally
The Classic Yacht Rally was introduced into the Club portfolio of events in 2005 and was an instant success as it appealed to a broader spectrum of boat owners. It is held in May and includes two leisurely races over a weekend coupled with an overnight mooring and beach party.

Summer Series
The Summer Series, also known as the Restaurant Series, runs from June till August each year and is the perfect opportunity to go sailing, whether you are a beginner or an experienced sailor. It’s always a great day out and most boats are willing to take on extra crew in these fun races. Often including families, each of the six races finishes at a south side seafood restaurant where an unofficial reading of the results is given over what is often a rather liquid lunch.

OTHER EVENTS

Throughout the year the Club also organises other events such as the Two Legged Race, Single Handed and Ladies Helm. Some of these involve overnight stays where the Club junk will be on hand for dinner and breakfast, as well as providing a floor for those needing somewhere more comfortable than a winch for a pillow.

If you would like to join any of our races, just check the race calendar and turn up for Sunday breakfast (around 9 am), put your name on the ‘Crew Available’ notice board and make contact with the Race Officer, who will then introduce you to the boat owners looking for crew. Alternatively, you can contact our Membership Service Manager, Cobo on 2553 3032 and leave your name prior to race day for circulation to the Race Officer and the other ABC skippers.

Owners

If you are a yacht owner and want to start racing, the Sailing and Marine Committee can also help. The committee will arrange for an experienced sailor to sail with you on the day and explain the process (in return for a few beers!!!). It’s much easier than you think. Alternatively if you would rather sail with your own crew (and not share your beer stock) then just come for Sunday breakfast and ask one of the staff, they will point you to someone you can talk to, regarding the basic race procedures.

Training
The ABC provides a range of sailing opportunities for all levels of sailors. Our year round sailing program caters for family events to serious racing. We also offer a comprehensive training schedule for dinghy courses, HK Marine Department Grade I and II Masters and Engineers Licenses and Radio courses.