Sailing in Thailand is set to go global when the Top of the Gulf Regatta takes place next month.

The regatta will be held between May 4 and 8 at Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien Beach, Pattaya and thousands of yachting lovers are expected to make an appearance.

Spectators from all over the world are expected to descend upon Pattaya for the event, regarded among Asia's largest multi-class regattas.

Organisers say they expect more than 600 sailors to head to the event, which has nearly a decade of experience behind it and is subsequently well run.

It is likely many people heading to Pattaya for the first time to enjoy this year's regatta may be interested in arranging Thailand yacht charters in the coming years, once they have fallen in love with the country's exotic beauty, blue seas and dreamlike beaches.

William J Gasson, chairman of the TOG Regatta Organising Committee, said: "Our aim since the beginning has been to organise an international-standard yacht race in the Gulf of Thailand, in line with ISAF rules, and with international race management.

"For Thai juniors, we incorporated the Thailand Optimist Championships as part of the regatta and now provide an opportunity for Thai youngsters to compete alongside international sailors and develop their skills."

Many Thai sailors have been inspired by the Top of the Gulf Regatta to strive for international recognition, with the event allowing them to hone their skills close to home.

The regatta is one of many international sailing events currently on offer in Asia and Thailand. Sailing fans across the region have been treated to such world-renowned events as the Volvo Ocean Race, the Extreme Sailing Series and the World Match Racing Tour in recent years.

The NeilPryde Racing Series will also make its first appearance in Thailand this year too, during the Top of the Gulf Regatta - giving people another reason to attend.

Gasson added: "Bringing the NeilPryde Racing Series to Thailand further cements the Top of the Gulf Regatta's position as a leading sailing event in Asia, offering diverse classes for sailors of all backgrounds, and bringing international sailing talent together for top quality competition."

People who fall under the spell of yacht racing in Thailand may also be interested to hear about the Phuket King's Cup Regatta. The event is held every December to commemorate the birthday of his Majesty the King of Thailand. It has been going for more than two decades and attracts some of the world's top sailors.

If you're liking the idea of the 2012 Phuket regatta, find out more on the Sunsail website.