Australia’s yachting calendar is packed with a variety of events that cater to all levels of sailing enthusiasts. From high-stakes regattas to informative boat shows, these events bring together the Australian sailing community and offer exciting opportunities for networking, learning, and competition. Here are some of the key yachting events that take place in Australia throughout the year:
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
The Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the most prestigious offshore yacht races in the world. Starting on Boxing Day (26th December) in Sydney Harbour, the race covers a distance of approximately 630 nautical miles, finishing in Hobart, Tasmania. This challenging race attracts a diverse fleet of yachts, from professional racing teams to amateur sailors.
Hamilton Island Race Week
Held in August, the Hamilton Island Race Week is one of Australia’s favourite yachting events. The event takes place in the Whitsunday Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, offering a week of competitive racing in a stunning tropical setting. The race week also includes a vibrant social program with parties, food and wine events, and fashion shows.
Australian Yachting Championships
The Australian Yachting Championships are the pinnacle of keelboat racing in Australia. The event attracts a strong fleet of local and international competitors and is typically held in January. The championships include multiple classes, providing competitive racing for a wide range of yachts.
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, held in May, is a premier event in the Australian boating calendar. The show features a vast display of marine products and services, including the latest boats, yachts, marine technology, and equipment. It’s a must-visit event for anyone interested in boating and yachting.
Audi Centre Sydney Blue Water Pointscore Series
The Audi Centre Sydney Blue Water Pointscore Series is a challenging offshore racing series that includes six races. The series starts in October and concludes with the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in December. The series is known for its challenging conditions and competitive racing.
Audi Hamilton Island Race Week
The Audi Hamilton Island Race Week is a premier event on the Australian yachting calendar. Held annually in August, the event combines offshore racing with onshore festivities, making it a unique experience for participants and spectators alike.
Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race
The Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race is a popular event on Australia’s east coast. The race starts in Pittwater, New South Wales, and finishes in Coffs Harbour, covering a distance of approximately 230 nautical miles. The race is typically held in January.
Great Barrier Reef Festival
The Great Barrier Reef Festival is a celebration of the unique environment in which the Whitsundays is located – the Great Barrier Reef. The festival is held in Airlie Beach, Queensland, from 3rd to 6th August 2023.
Sydney International Boat Show
The Sydney International Boat Show is the largest recreational marine event in the southern hemisphere. It first ran in 1968 and since then has played host to over three million visitors who arrive to be entertained, educated, speak to the experts, and to be inspired by this wonderful pastime enjoyed by millions each year. The event will be held in Darling Harbour, Sydney, from 3rd to 6th August 2023.
Port Stephens Regatta
The Port Stephens Regatta, also known as Sail Port Stephens, is a popular sailing event held in April in the beautiful waters of Port Stephens, New South Wales. The regatta includes a variety of races for different classes of boats and is known for its friendly, festival-like atmosphere.
Melbourne Summer Boat Show
The Melbourne Summer Boat Show, held in February, is a major event for boating enthusiasts in Victoria. The show features a wide range of boats, marine equipment, and services, and includes a variety of on-water activities and demonstrations.
Geographe Bay Race Week
Held in February, the Geographe Bay Race Week is Western Australia’s premier yachting regatta. The event is hosted by the Geographe Bay Yacht Club in Busselton and attracts a wide range of competitors from around the country.
Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic
The Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic is a biennial yacht race that covers a distance of 1,440 nautical miles. The race starts in Fremantle, Western Australia, and finishes in Bali, Indonesia. The next race is scheduled for May 2023.
Australian Superyacht, Marine Export and Commercial Industry Conference (ASMEX)
The ASMEX conference is a key event for networking with yacht owners, manufacturers, and designers. Providing attendees with information on new and emerging trends in the marine industry, the conference is typically held at Sanctuary Cove.
Superyacht Australia Soirée
The annual Superyacht Australia Soirée is a must-attend event for those interested in luxury superyachts. Typically held at Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney, attendees gather to celebrate the country’s superyacht industry and Sydney as a superyacht destination.
These are just a few of the many yachting events that take place in Australia throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a keen spectator, or new to the world of yachting, these events offer exciting opportunities to engage with the vibrant Australian sailing community.
