Cebu is once again preparing to welcome paddles, drums, and cheering crowds as the NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta returns for its second edition from September 18 to 20, 2026. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, NUSTAR Resort Cebu is bringing together athletes, sports enthusiasts, local communities, and visitors for three exciting days that celebrate competition, inclusion, and Cebu’s growing reputation as a sports tourism destination.

NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 Press Con

Officially launched during a press conference at the NUSTAR Ballroom, the 2026 regatta is expected to attract both local and international dragon boat teams, creating an exciting weekend where world-class racing meets Cebuano hospitality.

Cebu’s Waterfront Becomes the Center of Dragon Boat Action

The highlight of the event takes place on September 19 and 20 at the scenic NUSTAR Boardwalk, where dragon boat crews will race along a 200-meter straight course overlooking Cebu’s waterfront.

Open to both local and international teams regardless of federation affiliation, the regatta welcomes experienced competitors as well as new participants eager to test their teamwork and endurance.

This year’s competition features seven race categories:

• Premier Open Standard Boat DB22
• Premier Mixed Standard Boat DB22
• Premier Women Small Boat DB12
• Premier Open Small Boat Corporate DB12
• Senior-A Open Small Boat DB12
• 24U Open Small Boat DB12
• Para-Dragon 1 Open Small Boat DB12

The inclusion of corporate, youth, senior, and adaptive racing categories reflects the event’s commitment to making dragon boat racing accessible to a wider community.

More Than a Sporting Event

For NUSTAR Resort Cebu, the regatta represents far more than a weekend of racing.

During the launch, NUSTAR Chief Operating Officer Sean Knights shared that last year’s inaugural event proved that dragon boat racing could become a meaningful platform for teamwork, diversity, and community engagement. Building on that momentum, this year’s edition aims to be even bigger while strengthening Cebu’s position as one of the Philippines’ leading sports tourism destinations, with support from the Cebu City Government, the Department of Tourism Region VII, and the Philippine Sports Commission.

The event demonstrates how sporting competitions can bring together athletes, families, visitors, and local businesses while showcasing Cebu as a destination capable of hosting large-scale international events.

NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 Press Conference

Championing Inclusion Through Sports

One of the defining features of the NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta is its emphasis on inclusivity.

This year’s event is organized in partnership with the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF), which oversees technical race management, and Philippine Accessible Disability Services (PADS), which supports participating teams and adaptive athletes.

Among the event’s most inspiring competitions is the Para-Dragon 1 Open Small Boat DB12 category, highlighting the talents and determination of adaptive paddlers competing alongside elite athletes.

According to PADS Founder JP Maunes, the collaboration with NUSTAR demonstrates how hospitality and purpose-driven organizations can work together to elevate sports tourism while creating opportunities for athletes of all abilities. By placing adaptive athletes on the same stage as competitive teams, the regatta promotes a more inclusive sporting culture that breaks barriers and strengthens communities.

Boosting Cebu’s Sports Tourism

Beyond the races themselves, the regatta plays an important role in supporting Cebu’s tourism industry.

Events like these encourage athletes and their families to extend their stay, dine at local restaurants, explore nearby attractions, and experience Cebu’s vibrant culture. They also create opportunities for partnerships between the public and private sectors while generating economic activity for local businesses.

NUSTAR Vice President for Business Development Katrina Mae de Jesus emphasized that the regatta reflects a shared vision between the resort, government agencies, and sports organizations to position Cebu as a premier sports tourism destination in the Philippines.

With international participation expected to increase, the event further strengthens Cebu’s growing reputation as a venue for world-class sporting competitions.

Registration and Exclusive Hotel Packages

Teams interested in joining the NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 may register at the following rates:

• PHP 2,000 per participant for domestic teams
• USD 50 per participant for international teams
• PHP 1,600 for senior citizens and persons with disabilities
• PHP 1,000 for students

The deadline for payment and submission of race requirements is August 15, 2026.

Participants can also enjoy exclusive accommodation packages at Fili Hotel Cebu and NUSTAR Hotel Cebu for stays between September 18 and 21, 2026. These packages include two nights’ accommodation, applicable participation fees, daily breakfast for up to two guests, and complimentary airport transfers, making it convenient for visiting athletes and supporters.

A Weekend Where Sport Meets Lifestyle

The NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta has quickly evolved into more than just a sporting competition. It has become a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and community while showcasing Cebu’s beautiful waterfront and vibrant tourism scene.

Whether you’re competing on the water, supporting your favorite team from the sidelines, or simply looking for an exciting event to experience during your Cebu getaway, the regatta promises an energetic atmosphere filled with determination, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.

As dragon boats once again glide across the waters of the NUSTAR Boardwalk this September, visitors can expect not only thrilling races but also a meaningful celebration of inclusion, collaboration, and Cebu’s continuing rise as one of Southeast Asia’s emerging sports tourism destinations.

General FAQs

• Where can we access the Information Bulletin 1 and 2?

Information Bulletin 1 and 2 can be accessed through the NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 Official Webpage: NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 – Official Webpage

• When and where will the NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 be held?

The event will take place on September 19–20, 2026, at the NUSTAR Boardwalk, Kawit Island, Cebu City. 

Registration, Race Details & Payments

• Where can we register and access the race forms?

You may register through this link: 

NUSTAR Resort Dragon Boat Festival 2026 Online Registration

You may access race forms here:

Downloadable Forms | NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta Race Forms

• What is the race distance and categories?

Race Distance: 200 meters straight course

Race Categories: 

1. Premier OPEN Standard Boat (DB22)
2. Premier MIXED Standard Boat (DB22)  
3. Premier WOMEN Small Boat (DB12)  
4. Premier OPEN Small Boat – Corporate (DB12)
5. Senior-A OPEN Small Boat (DB12)
6. 24U OPEN Small Boat (DB12)
7. Para-Dragon 1 OPEN Small Boat (DB12)

• How much is the registration fee? 

Registration fees vary depending on the participant category (Regular, Student, Senior Citizen, PWD, or International). Please refer to the Race Fee section of the Information Bulletin 2 for the applicable rates.

• How do I pay the registration fee?

Detailed payment guidelines can be found in the Information Bulletin 2.

• How long does payment verification take?

Payments are verified on the next banking day after receipt of the proof of payment. A confirmation email will be sent within seven (7) calendar days from receipt of the proof of payment.

• What is included in the registration fee?

Registered participants will receive a race kit (event singlet and ID with lanyard) and complimentary access to the Fellowship Night and Awarding Dinner.

• How do we book a test water schedule?

Participating teams are advised to book their test water schedule at the earliest convenience. Please note that securing a preferred test water schedule is on a first-come, first-served basis with specific reference to the time stamp of the submission of the Google Form. 

Book test water schedule through this link: NUSTAR DB Festival 2026 Test Water Schedule

Hotel & Accommodation

Fili and NUSTAR Hotel Special Room Rates and Packages

• Where can we access the details regarding Fili and NUSTAR Hotel Special Room Rates and Packages?

Full details regarding the special room rates and packages can be found in the Information Bulletin 2. For easier reference, links to the website with hotel packages are found below. For any further inquiries and concerns, please direct your concerns to the email addresses found below.

Fili Hotel

• Link to website: Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu – Reservations
• Promo code: FILDRBO26
• Email: Fili.Reservations@nustar.com.ph  

NUSTAR Hotel

• Link to website: NUSTAR Hotel – Reservations
• Promocode: NUSDRBO26
• Email: reservation.NUSTARHotel@nustar.com.ph

Questions, Inquiries and Clarifications

• Where can we send our questions and clarifications?

• For inquiries/clarifications on race guidelines, technical rules, registration and payments, please send your concerns to:
  • Official Event Email: 2026nustarcebudragonboat@gmail.com  
  • Official Facebook Page: NUSTAR Dragon Boat Regatta Facebook Page
• For all inquiries on hotel reservations, please send an email to the following:
• Fili Hotel: Fili.Reservations@nustar.com.ph
• NUSTAR Hotel: reservation.NUSTARHotel@nustar.com.ph

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