The Cork economy looks set to benefit from a cash injection of €20 million when over 600 yachts and 5,000 sailors from 20 countries attend Cork Week at Crosshaven this summer.
This year's regatta, organised by the Royal Cork Yacht Club, runs from July 15th to July 21st. Entries have been received for the first time from the Philippines, South Africa and Sweden.
Cork Week chairman Ian Venner said Cork Week was the single largest regatta in Europe run by a single club.
He paid particular tribute to the event's sponsors such as Miller Genuine Draft for their assistance.
"The standing that we have as probably the most welcoming regatta in the world is something money can't buy.
"We have this reputation as a result of making certain that we provide the best racing we can on water, and the best entertainment, food and drink on shore."
According to founding member of Cork Week Donal McClement it is estimated that each boat owner spends around €10,000 at Cork Week.
He believes every crew member spends a further €1,000 each, all making for a major cash boost to the local economy.
"Cork is a world-class event - if you ask any serious international sailor to name their top three regattas, I guarantee you that virtually all will include Cork and most will have it at number one. It's a hugely popular event among the international sailing community."
