Singapore Sea Regatta 2025 returns with a focus on mental health

CONTENT: Yiew Kai Jie

The heart of Marina Bay will once again pulse with adrenaline, teamwork, and unity as the Singapore Sea Regatta (SSR) 2025 splashes on 13th and 14th September 2025. Partnering up with IHH Healthcare, the international dragon boat championship returns with a powerful new focus: advocating for mental health through sport.

For the first time, the regatta will take place at The Promontory @ Marina Bay, following its 2024 debut at the Water Sports Centre in Kallang. Backed by a landmark S$580,000 title sponsorship from IHH Healthcare—Asia’s leading private healthcare group—SSR will continue annually at Marina Bay until at least 2027. IHH’s commitment also extends to a S$40,000 donation supporting the Singapore Dragon Boat Association’s efforts to grow the sport locally.

This year’s event brings together 64 teams from five countries, featuring healthcare professionals, corporate and community leaders, cancer survivors, and youth paddlers, all rallying to promote mental health support and awareness. Alongside traditional dragon boat divisions, unique race categories include robust healthcare and survivor divisions, premier and youth teams, and the brand-new Rojak Race—an innovative mixed-team event designed to foster integration and camaraderie across cultures and backgrounds.

Beyond the water, spectators and families can enjoy a lively two-day waterfront carnival. On offer are food and beverage stalls, interactive activity stations, and family-friendly games aimed at sparking interest in sports and wellness. Attendees can join fun initiatives like Pull-Ups for a Cause—where every pull-up raises a dollar for charity—ensuring everyone is part of the weekend’s giving spirit.

SSR 2025’s mental health advocacy will take centre stage with a comprehensive programme of talks and panel discussions on health, wellbeing, and resilience. Thought leaders, wellness personalities (including Dawn Sim, Naomi Yeo, and Darshen), and healthcare experts will engage audiences and inspire open dialogue about mental wellbeing—a crucial complement to the festival’s sporting highlights.

Minister for Health Mr Ong Ye Kung will open the festivities and even take to the water in the anticipated Minister’s Cup Race, adding prestige and a dash of excitement to the proceedings. Event partners for 2025 include the Ministry of Health (MOH), Singapore Dragon Boat Association (SDBA), Sport Singapore (SportSG), People’s Association’s PAssion WaVe, and communications partner SPAG FINN Partners.

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