The 6th Qingdao International Sailing Week and Qingdao International Marine Festival kicked off on August 16 in Qingdao, port city of Shandong province.

The Sailing Week and Marine Festival are two major events in Qingdao every August. This year the two have been integrated for the first time and will help boost the Blue Economic Zone in Shandong Peninsula.

The combined event will last until August 23, consisting of a series of sailing competitions and international cultural exchange activities.

Hundreds of sailors across the world will participate in various competitions, such as Qingdao Airlines Cup International Sailing Competition, Mayor Cup Round Island Regatta and the 2014 Honny Cup Qingdao International Optimist Training Camp.

Established in 2009, Qingdao International Sailing Events was approved by the General Administration of Sports of China, and has gained international influence.

With a history of 15 years, Qingdao Marine Festival aims at spreading the Olympic spirit and has become a cooperation platform for marine science and technology, seashore tourism, marine culture and water sports around the world.