Legendary Dragon “Bluebottle” to Sail in Hong Kong for the 2027 Dragon World Championship
Bluebottle, helmed by Graham Bailey at Régates Royales de Cannes (August 2025) © Robert Deaves / www.robertdeaves.uk
Hong Kong / Edinburgh, February 3, 2026.
In a celebration of maritime heritage and international sailing excellence, the iconic Dragon-class yacht Bluebottle will participate in the 2027 Dragon World Championship and Asia Pacific Championship, taking place in Hong Kong from 21 to 29 November 2026.
The event is organised by the Sailing Federation of Hong Kong, China, co-organised by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club and the Hong Kong Dragon National Class Association. Bluebottle will be hosted in the marina of the Official Regatta Partner – The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club. Racing will be broadcast to spectators along the Wan Chai waterfront.
This historic occasion marks the yacht’s first appearance in Asian waters and promises to unite sailing communities from across the globe in a shared appreciation of tradition, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the sport.
Commissioned in 1948 and built by renowned British shipbuilders Camper & Nicholsons, Bluebottle was originally presented as a wedding gift to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. She is the only British Dragon to have won an Olympic medal, achieving bronze at the 1956 Melbourne Games, a testament to her timeless design and competitive pedigree.
Now meticulously restored and maintained by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, Bluebottle remains an active competitor on the international regatta circuit. Far from a museum piece, she embodies the living legacy of classic yacht design and continues to inspire sailors of all ages.
Bluebottle, helmed by Graham Bailey in Douarnenez (Gold Cup, August 2025) © Manon Le Guen / www.manonleguen.com
Her presence in Hong Kong will not only highlight the city’s growing role in international sailing but also serve as a platform for cultural exchange and community engagement. Local youth and sailing enthusiasts will have opportunities to connect with the vessel and her experienced crew through outreach events designed to foster appreciation for sailing and maritime history.
Ms Cheung Mei Han, President of the Sailing Federation of Hong Kong, China, welcomed the announcement: “We are proud to host such a celebrated yacht in Hong Kong. Bluebottle’s visit offers a unique opportunity to inspire our local sailing community, especially young sailors, and to showcase Hong Kong’s vibrant maritime traditions on a global stage.”
“We are proud to host such a celebrated yacht in Hong Kong. Bluebottle’s visit offers a unique opportunity to inspire our local sailing community, especially young sailors, and to showcase Hong Kong’s vibrant maritime traditions on a global stage.”
“Bluebottle is more than just a yacht; she’s a floating ambassador for the values of tradition, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie”, said Graham Bailey, who will helm the yacht during her time in Hong Kong. “We are honoured to bring her to Asia and share her remarkable story with new generations of sailors.”
“This event is a rare chance to unite the global sailing community around a vessel that has shaped the sport’s legacy”, added Abraham van Olphen, Chairman of the International Dragon Association and a member of the Hong Kong Dragon fleet. “Her visit will be a highlight not only for competitors but for all who value the richness of maritime culture.”
The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust’s support of this campaign underscores its commitment to preserving naval heritage while inspiring future sailors. Bluebottle’s participation in the 2027 Hong Kong Dragon World Championship will be a powerful reminder of the unifying power of the sea and the traditions that continue to bring communities and cultures together through sailing.
Restored racing yacht Bluebottle arrives at Royal Yacht Britannia (May 2021) © Helen Pugh Photography