UAE- On Water Restriction Zones to be enforced during Volvo Ocean Race In-Port Events 

(MENAFN - Emirates News Agency (WAM)) With the Volvo Ocean Race fleet preparing for next weekend's in-port racing which will go towards point scoring in the overall event, the race management is implementing a strict on-water protocol for spectator yachts.

"The best way to witness the action will be to get out onto the water and the water protocol, which includes restriction zones for spectator vessels, has been created to avoid conflict between racing yachts and charter or private boats," said Fasial Al Sheikh, Events Manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) - which is behind the two-week hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race fleet in the UAE capital.

Private yacht owners wishing to visit the Volvo Ocean Race Abu Dhabi Destination Village and stay overnight are being advised to make reservations at the Emirates Palace Marina where Volvo Ocean Race management has negotiated special berthing facilities.

"It's going to be an action-packed weekend with pro-am race on Thursday beginning at 11 am, the in-port race on Friday beginning at 2pm with a public prize-giving due at 4pm and the official race re-start when the fleet leaves for Sanya, China on Saturday at 2pm," explained Al Sheikh.

The Volvo Ocean Race sailing courses will be set by the Race Sailing Manager 24 hours before the start, according to the weather and wind conditions predicted for each day.

Once the course is decided, restriction zones for spectator and charter yachts will be issued for each day, no later than 24 hours before the event start.

"All on-water vessels must act within the strict guidelines of Volvo Ocean Race Sailing Management," explained Al Sheikh. "All accredited vessels will be called to a mandatory skipper briefing 48 hours prior to the official sailing event. All final information and relative zone flags will be handed over during the briefing."