Episode list

First contested in 1962, the biennial Rolex China Sea race is now accepted as the ultimate Asian blue-water classic. An offshore spectacular that starts its 565 nautical mile adventure in magnificent Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong, before traversing the South China Sea to a finish in Subic Bay, the Philippines. An international fleet, increasingly involving a Chinese presence, take on this hugely challenging test of seamanship, which demands skill, determination and stamina.

This Giraglia Rolex Cup is a jewel in the Mediterranean yachting crown, one of the most celebrated races in the sailing calendar. Scenically it is a stunning spectacle, as after three days of inshore racing, the offshore sets off from beautiful St Tropez, then it's a hectic 243 mile nautical dash across the Mediterranean, rounding the breath-taking Giraglia rock on the way, before finishing in Genoa, Italy. Always dramatic, frequently exacting, it is a fitting climax to the week-long celebrations.

This year the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, situated in one of the most enchanting and seductive locations in world sailing, hosts not just one, but two world-class events. First held in 1980, the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup brings together some of the worlds' most elegant, powerful, yet graceful yachts, battling for the coveted World Championship. The following week in September sees the biennial Rolex Swan Cup take to the crystal-clear waters of Porto Cervo, for a spectacular week of competitive racing and glamorous social events.

Sailors from around the world flock to the French Riviera to take part in Les Voiles de St Tropez. First raced in 1981, this regatta celebrates beauty and elegance, showcasing hundreds of classic yachts from a bygone era, many more than a century old. Amateur and professional sailors rub shoulders on water and land creating a unique atmosphere.

Late October sees the conclusion of the Mediterranean offshore season with the 50th Edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race. It starts and finishes in, almost certainly, the most awe-inspiring setting imaginable - the Grand Harbour Valletta. The 606 nautical mile route is a visual delight, as it takes in the Straits of Messina, Stromboli's active volcano and the rocky islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa as it makes its way around the Sicilian coat. Tactically demanding, with infamously changeable weather conditions this is a classic examination of seamanship.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race offers drama, passion and excitement. It is the blue water classic, which, for more than 70 years, has enthralled and captivated sailors from across the globe. The Boxing Day start from Sydney Harbour is an Australian institution, with hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the shore, as the boats head off towards Hobart. The 628 nautical mile journey crosses the notorious and unforgiving Bass Strait before reaching the fickle waters of the Derwent River that lead home to Hobart.