Australia's largest offshore sailing regatta Hamilton Island Race Week

Sailing into its 41st year, Hamilton Island Race Week continues to draw yachties and spectators from around the world to Australia’s largest offshore sailing regatta.

A carnival of events Hamilton Island Race Week

Hamilton Island Race Week also features a vibrant array of onshore events, including gourmet dining experiences with renowned chefs, fashion showcases, live music, wine tastings, gourmet pop-ups, and much more.

Welcome to Hamilton Island Race Week

15 - 22 August 2026

Sailing into History – 41 Years of Hamilton Island Race Week.

For over four decades, Hamilton Island Race Week has been Australia’s premier offshore sailing regatta, bringing together yachties, family, and friends in the breathtaking Whitsundays for a week of thrilling competition and unforgettable island celebrations.

What began as a passion project has grown into Australia’s largest offshore sailing regatta and an unmissable highlight on the global sailing calendar. Each August, sailors and spectators from around the world arrive at Hamilton Island for exhilarating racing on the water and a vibrant social scene onshore.

With the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland’s 74 Whitsunday Islands as its backdrop, Hamilton Island offers the ultimate sailing experience—ideal racing conditions, an unbeatable atmosphere, a range of accommodation, world-class dining, and endless adventure.

Join us as we continue the legacy. In 2026, the 41st Hamilton Island Race Week promises to be a celebration of sailing in paradise like no other.

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FAQ's

What time is the first race on the first day?

It is common practise for a number of crews to fly in on the day of the first race. Unfortunately flights from most destinations do not arrive until midday or later. This will be too late to get onboard your boat for the first race. The start times on other days will vary, but will generally be between 1030hrs and 1130hrs.

Can I live aboard my yacht during Race Week?

Yes, and you'll have lots of company. Each year hundreds of yachties live aboard, and the marina is a lively place. There are showers and toilets ashore which you can use.

Can I enter more than one handicap class?

No. Yachts may enter for one class only.

Can I change handicap class after I have entered the regatta?

Yes, you can change to a different handicap class (provided your boat is eligible) at any time up to the day before the racing starts. Should you wish to change class, just send us an email to let us know.

I need to book a marina berth?

No, lodging your entry alerts us to the fact that you are coming, and gives us the dimensions of your boat. The marina staff works out a mooring plan to fit the boats into the marina, but there's always a degree of rafting involved. We do try to put all the relevant groups of boats together as much as possible - such as all the boats of a particular class (for example the Farr 40's, the Beneteau's, etc).

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