2026 COA CNY Macau Rally

COA 2026 Chinese New Year Hong Kong Macau Rally - a decades long tradition, proudly and exclusively organized by the COA in Hong Kong!

Date: 17 -19 Feb 2026 (Tue - Thu)

Details:

The traditional Macau Race over Chinese New Year (CNY) is a highly anticipated event that attracts a great many sailors. This festive occasion typically unfolds over three days, offering a unique blend of racing excitement and cultural experience.

Schedule Overview

Race to Macau — 17 February: Kick off the holiday with an adrenaline-charged race from Hong Kong to Macau on the first day of the festivities. This scenic route launches the Spring Festival celebrations and promises a thrilling start to a weekend of camaraderie and competition.
Lay Day & Chinese New Year Sea Parade — 18 February: After the first day’s race, join fellow rally participants for the Macau Boat Owner Club’s Chinese New Year Sea Parade from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Take part aboard your own boat or hop on a participating vessel for a festive cruise past the inner harbour, Macau Tower, Sai Van Bridge, Ponte de Amizade, Fisherman’s Wharf, returning to Clube Náutico de Macau. A BBQ will be available at the club for MOP100 per person. Parade participation earns a point toward the highest participation award — a great reason to be on the water!
Return Race to Hong Kong — 19 February: Wrap up the celebration with the return race to Hong Kong on the third day. Enjoy one last burst of friendly competition and reflection as you race back, sharing stories and highlights from a memorable holiday weekend. Join us — bring your boat, your crew, and your festive spirit!

Weather Expectations

During this holiday period, participants should prepare for North to North East winds and cold weather conditions. It is advisable to dress warmly and be ready for potentially brisk temperatures, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the festivities.

This combination of thrilling races and cultural exploration during the CNY holiday period makes for an unforgettable experience in Macau, highlighting both its rich traditions and modern attractions.

L-notice:

Cut off time and Time limit for Leg 2 have been amended!

Registration closed

COA 2026 CNY Macau Rally_SI.pdf

COA 2026 CNY Macau Rally_Race Course.pdf

2026 CNY Macau Rally Race Review

17–19 February 2026

Leg 1 – Hong Kong to Macau

17 February 2026

The 2026 Chinese New Year Macau Rally began under grey skies but promising breeze. At 9 AM the fleet prepared to depart Hong Kong in 6–10 knots of easterly to east-northeasterly wind, with temperatures hovering around 18.8°C and humidity near 90%. A light drizzle hung over Hong Kong, while Macau remained overcast but dry at 19°C.

The rally uses a pursuit start format, meaning boats set off at predetermined times based on their PHS handicap rating—the slower boats start first, with faster boats chasing them down across the course.

Leading the fleet away was Barracuda, a Beneteau Sense 43, starting at 10:00 AM. Close behind was UNO, sailed double-handed by a determined father-and-son duo aboard their Beneteau 473. In the third starting slot was Sea Eagle, the Beneteau First 40.7 representing DBYC.

Nearly an hour later the faster boats began their pursuit. Glory, a sleek Grand Soleil GS50, led the charge, followed by Arcturus+ (Mat 1245) and Mazu, a striking Nautor Swan 45. For Mazu this race was particularly special—having just arrived in Hong Kong from Australia, this rally marked her first competitive outing in local waters.

By lunchtime the fleet had compressed dramatically. Near Touyuzhou south of Lantau Island, Sea Eagle had closed the gap and was pressing hard on UNO’s stern. As the boats passed the wind farm, a welcome sight appeared—pink dolphins swimming alongside the fleet, escorting the sailors on their way west.

Meanwhile the faster boats were steadily reeling in the leaders. Glory, Arcturus+, and Mazu worked their way through the fleet, eventually catching Barracuda and UNO and setting their sights on Sea Eagle.

Despite the pressure from behind, Sea Eagle sailed an excellent tactical race and held her advantage, crossing first on corrected time with 5:21:40.

Behind her, the finish was thrillingly close. Arcturus+ executed a smart final approach to slip ahead of Glory, with Mazu close behind. Remarkably, four boats finished within just ten minutes of each other, a testament to the tight competition across the fleet.

Barracuda and UNO arrived later in the afternoon, completing the passage safely into Macau after a long but rewarding sail.

Leg 1 Results:

Sea Eagle
Arcturus+
Glory
Mazu
Barracuda
UNO

Leg 2 – Macau to Hong Kong

19 February 2026

After a well-earned day of rest in Macau, the fleet prepared for the return leg to Hong Kong. Conditions had improved noticeably: 19°C, partly sunny skies, 68% humidity, and a light east-northeasterly breeze around 10 knots.

The start, however, proved challenging. With almost no wind at the line, the fleet drifted cautiously as crews worked tirelessly to coax movement from the faintest whispers of breeze. Weight was shifted carefully across decks to induce heel, and sails were trimmed with surgical precision.

UNO was first to arrive at the starting area, followed by Glory, Barracuda, and Arcturus+, with Sea Eagle and Mazu bringing up the rear.

Eventually the breeze filled in and the race came alive. By the time the fleet approached the first gate, Mazu had surged ahead, already slicing through Chinese waters on the way toward Hong Kong.

But the race was not without drama.

Barracuda and UNO ultimately retired due to the lack of wind, choosing to motor home rather than drift indefinitely.

Meanwhile, in a memorable moment, Mazu was briefly stopped by the Chinese Maritime Safety Administration. The crew were required to lower their sails and come alongside for what could best be described as an unexpected safety briefing. The rally would like to extend its appreciation to the MSA for their vigilance and concern for our sailors.

Even this interruption, however, could not halt Mazu’s pace.

Further back, Glory and Arcturus+ engaged in a fascinating tactical duel, shadowing each other’s moves and responding tack for tack across the course. Sea Eagle, sailing steadily behind, remained very much in contention thanks to the handicap system.

Ultimately, Mazu crossed first at Gate 2, winning the leg with a corrected time of 4:29:14.

Unfortunately, she missed the adjusted finish-line cutoff by just two minutes, meaning the race committee shortened the course and scored the fleet at Gate 2.

Leg 2 Results: