Posted: 15th March 2019
Posted in: Attractions, Events, News, Sailing
It is one of the most exciting weeks of the year in The Whitsundays and we can’t wait to welcome back the competitors and support teams that regularly sail in for Hamilton Island Race Week. If you don’t know much about the big race, here’s an appetizer!
Australia’s largest offshore keelboat regatta packs in a full week of world-class racing and onshore events. Since its far from humble beginnings in 1984, when 93 yachts turned up to compete in the inaugural race, the week is now recognised as a feature event on the international sailing calendar.
There’s a grand prix class for top-class racers and a class for modern fast-cruising yachts, as well as performance racing, sports boats, cruising, corporate, bareboat and non-spinnaker divisions. It’s a great occasion for anyone remotely interested in boats and the perfect opportunity to get up close to some amazing maxi-yachts and the sailors who travel the world for competition racing.
Just being here for the socialising and events can be thrilling. It’s one of the best times to be on Hamilton Island, soaking up the international atmosphere. You can participate in exclusive lunches and dinners (celebrity Chefs fly in just for this week); fashion events, competition golf, wine tastings and so much more. The Yacht Club and Marina becomes the place to promenade amongst competitors, special guests and other racegoers.
The whole family can join in. Hamilton Island Race Week is a highly organised regatta with something for everyone. Come for the racing and take advantage of Hamilton Island’s family focussed facilities and activities, or take off to explore the Great Barrier Reef and take home unforgettable memories.
Thanks to Hamilton Island Airport, you can fly direct to all the action of Hamilton Island Race Week. Just as the rest of the country is still feeling the effects of winter, August on Hamilton Island is mostly glorious. The water is azure, the beaches are brilliant, especially Whitehaven Beach. You can snorkel, kayak and paddleboard right off Catseye Beach. Bring your walking shoes for an early morning hike up to Passage Peak Lookout and be rewarded by the views of The Whitsundays islands and the Coral Sea.
Because of its international appeal Hamilton Island Race Week attracts a lot of interest around the globe from sailors, boating enthusiasts and visitors who are drawn to the pristine environment and contemporary accommodation options available. All the best properties book out in advance so start planning now.
If you have a preference for self-contained accommodation or even a luxury island home, the best advice we can give you is BOOK NOW.
Call our friendly team on 1300 653 997 or contact us online – we’re available 7 days a week.