Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question about Hamilton Island Race Week? Take a look at these answers to some frequently asked questions.
What time is the first race on the first day?
It is common practice 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 use spinnakers in the Cruising Class?
Yes you can, and we anticipate that all yachts have spinnakers. Handicapping is based on the presumption that all boats will have spinnakers, and there's no handicap credit if you don't. If you don't have a spinnaker you can race in the Non-Spinnaker class.
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 two days before the racing starts. Should you wish to change class, just send us an email to let us know.
Who sets the Handicaps?
The handicap committee sets handicaps in the Performance Racing, Super Yachts, Cruising and Non-Spinnaker classes. The IRC Handicapped boats have their handicap pre-set by their IRC certificate (please ensure your IRC certificate is current).
When will I know my Handicap?
Provisional Handicaps will be finalised by 1700hrs on the first Friday of Race Week. They will be posted on the Official Notice Board and on the event website.
Do 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. As part of your entry a berth is provided for a period of 12 days beginning 2 days prior to the start of the event and ending 2 days after the last day of racing. For extended berth bookings prior to or after the event please ensure you contact the marina to book.
Marina staff then work 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)
What is the cost of a marina berth?
Zip. Yes, it’s free for yachts competing at Race Week. You can arrive on the Wednesday prior and stay until 12 noon on the Monday after Race Week at no cost. If you wish to arrive earlier, or depart later, you will need to book and pay for a berth - call the Marina Office on 07 4946 8353 to make the necessary arrangements. If you do wish to arrive early and/or depart late you are encouraged to make your booking early, as the marina is under tremendous pressure at that time of year.
Can I connect my computer to the internet on board my boat at the marina?
Yes, there's a high speed wireless internet service at the marina. It’s called Marinanet, and you can open an account quickly and easily when you get there.
What is the dress code for the various functions?
Smart casual is the most you'll ever need - leave your jacket and tie at home.
Can I pre-order my Groceries, Bakery Goods, and Alcohol in advance?
It is strongly encouraged that all crews pre-order their supplies to save time and hassle during the event, and also ensure that the items they need don't sell-out. See the crew catering page for details.