Manama, Bahrain

Overview

Powerboat P1 visits its third continent of the championship for a season finale in arguably the most spectacular setting of the year. Bahrain has an enviable reputation for embracing contemporary life and technology, without ignoring its old-world mystique and an archaeological heritage that stretches back more than 5000 years to the ancient civilisation of Dilmun.

It’s fitting that Bahrain should also be the Middle East’s first host for Powerboat P1. Powerboating is a popular sport around the Arabian Gulf and the Powerboat P1 stars will be racing in front of some of the world’s most knowledgeable spectators. As with Formula 1, the sponsors and organisers of the P1 grand prix are expected to put on a world-class event that showcases Bahrain as a modern, vibrant and diverse Middle East state with a rich heritage.

The Bahrain Powerboat P1 Grand Prix will be centred on the Durrat Marina, a brand-new US$1.3 billion, purpose-built facility set in its own lagoon at the southern tip of the island. Cafés and restaurants line the winding pathways around the comples, and afford uninterrupted views across arching white sandy beaches to the azure waves beyond. A golf course, designed by top pro Ernie Els, provides a swathe of green to the vista, which is punctuated by landmark contemporary architecture that rises from the islands.

Don’t leave Bahrain without…
* Visiting the spectacular Qalat Al Bahrain castle, a UNESCO world heritage site.
* Buying pearl jewellery, if funds allow. Bahrain is famous for the quality of its pearls.
* Watching some camel racing – live if you can. It’s a unique, highly charged sport, and highly addictive.
* Visiting a souk and bringing home some bargains – look-alike designer watches, tailor-made clothing, electrical goods, spices… The options are endless. Remember to barter.

Bahrain fact file
Time zone: GMT +3hrs
Location: Middle East
Neighbouring countries: Saudi Arabia and Qatar
Capital city: Manama
Language: Arabic. English is spoken widely. Farsi (Persian) and Urdo are also spoken in some areas