A THREE-year regional development strategy from Fáilte Ireland has recommended that Cork be developed into a major maritime destination.
The tourism body was commenting at the opening of Ireland's largest sailing regatta, the biennial ACC Bank Week.
The event is expected to attract up to 80,000 visitors to the city over the next few days.
Fiona Buckley, general manager, Fáilte Ireland South West, said Cork Week plays a pivotal role in delivering upon the development of tourism in the Cork region. Ms Buckley said the agency recently launched a three-year development strategy for the southwest region, with one of its main pillars being increasing awareness of Cork as a maritime destination.
"Cork has a strong international maritime reputation stemming from its maritime and naval history; its spectacular natural harbour and port; institutions such as the Royal Cork Yacht Club and of course sailing.
"Cork Week has been doing this quite successfully for a number of years and it is my opinion that we can work to enhance this superb event to bring further visitors to Cork," Ms Buckley said.
Entry levels for ACC Bank Cork Week, which is supported by Fáilte Ireland, have exceeded expectations. A total of 430 boats, crewed up with 6,000 sailors, will compete over the next week.
Race committee member Kevin Lane promises that there will be exciting competition on the water.
"We have bigger and better boats, quality boats in the handicap fleet and increased numbers in Class Zero and Super Zero. We have one exciting new course and we expect competition to be fierce."
Piet Vroon on Formidable III, from Holland, is a former Fastnet Winner who is due to compete in Cork this week. He first raced in Cork Harbour in 1973.
Newcomers to Cork this year are "Escaped Aussies" led by their skippers, Darren (Daz) Shipard and James Kennedy. They promise to bring their unique brand of sailing, friendship and charity work to Cork.
"We're not just about sailing. Through our charity, Sailstrong, we have raised money for a variety of charities in the regions where we sail," says skipper Daz Shipard.
The on-shore entertainment at ACC Bank Cork Week is a crucial ingredient in the event's success.
The line-up this year includes names like Paddy Casey, The Walls and Aslan. Day passes, which allow admission to the "Tented Village" each evening are available on-line at www.ticketmaster.ie