Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025
The 46th Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025 is gearing up to transform the Straits Quay Retail Marina into a high-octane arena of speed, tradition, and cultural unity which is scheduled from 28 to 30 November 2025, this flagship sporting festival is set to welcome elite teams from Australia, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Liechtenstein, Philippines, Singapore, and across Malaysia.
With its fusion of maritime heritage, world-class competition, and waterfront lifestyle, the regatta remains one of Penang’s most iconic year-end travel drivers.
Event Venue
Straits Quay Retail Marina
Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang,
Tanjung Tokong, 10470 Penang, Malaysia
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KHSfDCCCUJPWb8Wd8
Event Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025 |
| Dates | 28–30 November 2025 |
| Venue | Straits Quay Retail Marina, Tanjung Tokong, Penang |
| Race Distances | 250m, 400m, Tug of War (6 Racers) |
| Main Divisions | Premier Open, Premier Women, Premier Mixed, Junior U24, Senior 40 |
| Participants | 10+ countries, multiple Malaysian states |
| Key Activities | Races, Opening Ceremony, Cultural Performances, Prize Presentations, Celebration Dinner |
| Organiser | Penang International Dragon Boat Festival (PIDBF) |
| Contact | +604 650 5133 / secretarypidbf@gmail.com |
| Website | https://penangdragonboat.gov.my |
Participating Countries
Australia, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Liechtenstein, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia (Many States).
A Signature Event Anchored in Heritage and Performance
Dragon boat racing is deeply ingrained in Penang’s cultural fabric. The 2025 edition reinforces this legacy through high-performance racing formats compliant with the PIDBF Competition Regulations & Rules of Racing. Visitors can expect heart-pounding action across 250m and 400m race categories, alongside a dynamic Tug of War on Water segment.
Key divisions include:
- Malaysia Premier Open (22 Racers)
- International Premier Open, Women & Mixed
- Junior U24 Open & Mixed
- Senior 40 Open
These categories ensure strong representation across age groups and racing calibres, delivering a holistic spectator experience.
A Three-Day Programme Designed to Engage
The regatta’s programme architecture reflects a best-in-class event flow model aimed at optimising visitor experience:
Friday, 28 November 2025 – Team Day & Water Trials
- Team Manager’s Registration
- Full-day practice sessions
- Tug of War competition
- Official team briefing and welcome reception at Jazz Hotel
Saturday, 29 November 2025 – 250m Race Day
- Flag-off at 8 am
- Opening Ceremony at 10 am
- Prize Presentation at 6 pm
Sunday, 30 November 2025 – 400m Race Day
- Full race programming from 8 am
- Prize Presentation at 5 pm
- Celebration Dinner at Laguna Bay, Tanjung Bungah
Monday, 1 December 2025 – Explore Penang
Post-event sightseeing and departures allow teams and visitors to maximise their Penang tourism experience.
Why This Event Should Be on Every Traveller’s Radar
The regatta delivers a compelling value proposition for both domestic and international travellers:
1. High-Visibility Waterfront Venue
Straits Quay Marina offers an upscale environment featuring restaurants, retail outlets, and photogenic marina views — a key advantage for content creators and family travellers.
2. Strong Cultural Integration
Expect traditional elements, energetic percussion, coordinated paddling rituals, and community-led performances that celebrate Penang’s maritime legacy.
3. International Participation
With global teams competing, spectators can anticipate elevated competitiveness and deeper cross-cultural engagement.
4. Tourism Synergy
The event naturally complements Penang’s tourism assets — George Town heritage, contemporary urban offerings, iconic beaches, and award-winning gastronomy.
Essential Visitor Information
Venue
Straits Quay Retail Marina, Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang, Tanjung Tokong, 10470 Penang
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KHSfDCCCUJPWb8Wd8
Entry & Spectator Access
Access is generally free, with hospitality packages available on request through PIDBF.
Best Viewing Zones
- Waterfront promenade
- Start/finish line deck
- Upper-level terraces overlooking the marina
These zones present optimal angles for photography and video documentation.
Travel Logistics
Penang is well connected via Penang International Airport (PEN), extensive local bus systems, e-hailing services, and waterfront accommodations within 5–10 minutes of the venue.
Preferred stays include:
- Jazz Hotel Penang
- Tanjung Point Residences
- Straits Quay Suites
Key Deadlines for Teams (Useful for Media & Delegations)
- Crew Photo Tag submission: Before 30 September 2025
- Celebration Dinner ticket purchase: Before 31 October 2025
- Practice session registration: 1–31 October 2025
Contact Touchpoints
- PIDBF Office: +604 650 5133
- WhatsApp (Race): +6012 483 0448
- WhatsApp (Hospitality): +6019 474 9191
- Email: secretarypidbf@gmail.com
- Updates Group: https://bit.ly/PIDBF2025Announcement
- Website: https://penangdragonboat.gov.my
Travel Tips for a High-Value Experience
- Arrive early for best viewing points and crowd management.
- Hydrate and bring sun protection, especially during mid-day races.
- Secure accommodation near Tanjung Tokong to minimise transit friction.
- Blend the regatta trip with Penang’s culinary hotspots, such as Gurney Drive, Tanjong Tokong cafés, and George Town hawker centres.
How to Reach Event Venue
Straits Quay Retail Marina, Tanjung Tokong, Penang
1. Arriving in Penang
- Airport: If you are travelling internationally (e.g., from India to Malaysia), you’ll land at Penang International Airport (PEN).
- From the airport to Straits Quay:
- Taxi / Ride-share: Approx 20 minutes, around RM 45–60.
- Bus (Rapid Penang line 102): Approx 1 hour 15 minutes, fare RM 2-4.
2. Public Transport Options to the Venue
- Bus Routes: The key bus lines to Straits Quay are 101 and 102.
- These buses stop “Straits Quay Marina Mall” (a short walk to the venue).
- Using the App: Use transit apps like Moovit to track timings & routes.
- Walking from Bus Stop: Once you alight at the stop near Straits Quay, it’s typically a 1-3 minute walk.
3. Car / Taxi / Ride-Share Options
- If you prefer direct access and comfort (especially when carrying gear for the event):
- From airport: ~20 min via taxi.
- Parking at Straits Quay: available on-site (good for influencers or team vehicles).
4. From Major Hubs / City Centre
- If you are staying in central George Town or Gurney Drive:
- Ride-share or taxi to venue offers greater flexibility and faster access.
- Public bus via 101/102 from city centre to Straits Quay is also viable (approx 30-40 mins depending on traffic).
5. Suggestions for Travel-Blogger Coverage
- Early arrival: For best photo spots of the waterfront, marina and event setup.
- Transit narrative: Capture the bus ride or taxi approach as part of your “journey to event” content.
- Venue arrival shot: Show the transition from transport mode to the waterfront event space.
- Use of apps/maps: Include directions, map screenshots and live-tracking commentary to help your audience replicate the trip.
- Gear transport: If carrying camera equipment, liaise with venue for parking or drop-off access via taxi.
Conclusion: A Premier Experience for Sport, Culture & Tourism
The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025 stands as a high-impact tourism catalyst, blending competitive racing with Penang’s distinct cultural identity. For travellers seeking an energised waterfront event, content creators looking for visually powerful narratives, or families planning a dynamic holiday experience, this regatta remains a top-tier November attraction.
Comments are closed.