Question:
Why has it taken so long to announce this World Event?
Answer:
This has been a long and exhausting process for the manufacturer. and the IHCA. Interest and negotiations for this event started many months ago. There are many contracts and permissions that need to be granted before the announcement of an event. Our apologies for there being a short time frame for making arrangements to attend this event, but it was felt in the best interest of the Sailors that an event be held. With all things now in place it will be a top quality event, hopefully to be attended by sailors from all over the globe.
Question:
There is a new format this year for the Masters/Grand Masters?
Answer:
In 2007 it was voted upon that the Masters/Grand Masters event would be a stand alone event to encourage more participation . This event will be held for 3 days with one day as the final followed by the Women and Youth event – a 3 day event.
Question:
The Notice of Race says I need to pay the refundable boat deposit of USD $500.00 deposits and it must be paid in cash or travellers cheques in USD (United States dollars). Can I pay in my local currency or in Chinse RMB?
Answer:
No, the Notice of Race does state that it in USD in cash or traveller cheques only. No other currency will be accepted.
Question:
Do you think I will be able to get 500USD at the local bank in Weihai?
Answer:
It would be unlikely that the banks in Weihai will hold USD. The best option is bring the 500USD in cash or traveller cheques from your home. That ensures that have the money and can sailing.
Question:
What happens if I cannot supply 500USD in cash or traveller cheques?
Answer:
The hosts will not release a boat to you and you will not be allowed to sail.
Question:
Will I require a visa to China?
Answer:
Most countries will require a visa to China. Check with your local travel agent or Chinese Consulate in your country.
Question:
Do I require a letter from the hosts in China for a visa?
Answer:
Most countries will only require a valid return ticket for a TOURSIST VISA which what you shall be applying for. So there is no requirement for a letter.
Question:
The Notice of Race says I shall have third party liability insurance with a minimum coverage of USD 300,000.00 or equivalent currency insurance. That shall be valid in China. Where do I get this insurance?
Answer:
Most large insurance companies in your home country will be able to sell you assist you with your insurance. As would some of Sailing National Authorities should be able assist.
Question:
The Notice of Race also say for competitors not having third party liability insurance will be available on site at a supplementary cost. How much will this cost?
Answer:
The price will be 300RMB per person (please check exchange rates). This will be sold during the registration on site in China.
Question:
What type of eletrcitical plugs do I need?
Answer:
Voltage in Mainland China is 220V, 50 Hz. A variety of electrical outlets can be found in China.
Question:
Is there an ATM near the sailing?
Answer:
Yes, there is an ATM machine at the across the road from the sailing site where you can access most international credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards.
Question:
What about internet connection?
Answer:
All rooms have a high speed LAN if you need to connect it may be easier to do so for your room with your own lap top. as there will not be a free internet cafe on site.
Question:
If I am under the Class Rules minimum weight do I have to bring my own weights?
Answer:
YES, the hosts do not have weights that can be bought. You have the obligation to ensure you maintain Class Rules minimum weight at all times while racing. It is safer to bring you own weights then try and find something at the venue.
Question:
Is there coach boats for hire or can I bring my own coach boat?
Answer:
No, there are no coach boats for hire. Also we will not allow any coach boat on the water. This allows equal sailing opportunities for all the sailors.
Question:
What happens if I book a hotel that is not one of the official hotels?
Answer:
The hosts have gone to a lot of effort to ensure that official hotels are the best hotels for the Hobie World sailors. They have negotiated the best hotel prices for the sailors. For those sailors that choose to book outside the official hotel the organisers cannot offer services for them including the meal packages, shuttle, airport pick-up etc. We hope that all the sailors will book at the official hotels to ensure the host can look after you in the best possible manner.
More FAQ to come
Special Announcement:
As part of the celebrations our friends in Weihai have asked if you could supply 2 national flags 192 CM x 128 CM.
Also if you could bring a recording of your national anthem?
This would be greatly appreciated as they wish to fly your countries flag proudly in Weihai.
If you cannot supply your country flag then unfortunately your country’s flag will not be flown over the sailing site. So please try and assist and promote your country at the worlds