Sailboats dock at the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center. [Photo/VCG]

The 18th Qingdao International Sailing Week and the third China (Qingdao) International Marine Sports Conference will feature 31 sports and cultural activities across seven themed sections, local officials said at a news conference on Aug 20.

This year's program will place greater emphasis on linking marine sports with tourism, culture and consumption, aiming to extend the economic impact of major sporting events beyond the competition venues.

The main program will run from late August to early September, while supporting activities began in mid-August and will continue through late September. Events will be staged across several coastal areas, including the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, Shilaoren Beach, Golden Beach and Liuqinghe, helping connect major waterfront destinations across the city.

Organizers said the broader schedule is designed to coincide with Qingdao's peak summer and early autumn tourism season and encourage visitors to explore different coastal districts.

In addition to sailing competitions, the program will include beach carnivals, sports experiences and other cultural and recreational activities. The city expects the events to support sectors such as sports training and event services, while also generating demand for hotels, restaurants, entertainment and coastal tourism.

Qingdao is also seeking to strengthen its portfolio of homegrown marine sporting events and further develop its reputation as a destination for sailing and outdoor water sports.