The rise of sailing and water sports in Hong Kong

As Sailing Manager, one would assume that Rob Allen has been sailing since he could walk, but that is not the case. Raised in England, sailing was not readily available at Allen’s school. Except for a few family holidays, he never had any official training on the water sailing or playing watersports until his gap year in Australia. 

How it started

Upon his return to England, Allen joined a one-year program at the United Kingdom Sailing Academy in Cowes. He took up sailing and kayaking courses, getting windsurfing and diving qualifications in Barbados. “This opened my eyes to an amazing industry where I have met so many great people and I am constantly learning fun things within the sport,” says Allen. 

Allen joined Hebe Haven Yacht Club after moving to Hong Kong in 2004, and has been a crucial part of the clubs development over the past 14 years. As sailing manager he has helped mentor and train many junior sailors over the year, “It’s personally very rewarding to see many beginner sailors train, qualify and become our club instructors and coaches.”

Read more: 10 water sports to try in Hong Kong

Sailing has always been a big part of Sai Kung’s culture, but this year especially there is a rise in people taking up the sport. “We have seen huge numbers of people take up sailing courses this year, as travel bans have encouraged people to take on new activities to keep them occupied. I also think we have the best sailing location in South East Asia,” says Allen. 

Hebe Haven Yacht Club

Along with a rise in water sports fans, the club was also able to successfully continue its high anticipated annual Open Dinghy Regatta. This year’s Regatta included four race courses, accommodating various ages of sailors and levels of competition. 

Read more: Your guide to exploring Tung Lung Chau

Whilst it took four attempts to arrange, with Covid-19 restrictions constantly changing, Allen believes “it was one of the best Regatta’s I’ve organised during my time in Hong Kong. The community came together as a team effort, working with 80 volunteer teams daily and made the Regatta an unforgettable event for sailors.” 

With the winter season in full swing, Hebe Haven Yacht Club has three weeks of sailing and watersports camps planned for kids. It is available for both members and non-members, as part of its youth programme. “You definitely need to wear a wetsuit and appropriate clothing, or you will spend the day shivering and not come back to the club again as it’s not fun to be out there under-dressed,” laughs Allen.