Airlie Beach Race Week

Australia's favourite tropical regatta - six days of world-class sailing and seven nights of legendary hospitality in the stunning Whitsundays.

Race Entry Information

Airlie Beach Race Week welcomes competitors from around Australia and internationally. Entry is open to a wide range of yacht divisions including monohulls, multihulls, cruising yachts, and trailerable yachts. While specific 2026 entry fees will be announced closer to the event, you can register your interest now to receive updates when entries open.

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Getting to Airlie Beach Race Week

About Airlie Beach Race Week

Airlie Beach Race Week is one of Australia's premier sailing regattas and the Whitsundays' biggest annual sporting event. Now in its 38th year, this week-long celebration combines six days of competitive offshore yacht racing with seven nights of socialising and entertainment that has made the event legendary on the Australian sailing calendar.

The regatta started in 1988 when Don Algie, founder of the Hog's Breath Cafe chain, arrived in the Whitsundays aboard his yacht and saw the potential for a mainland regatta to complement Hamilton Island Race Week. What began as the "Hog's Breath Cruising Classic" has grown into a major event attracting over 130 boats and more than 6,000 attendees each year, with competitors travelling from every state and territory in Australia and from overseas.

The atmosphere is something special. Racing takes place in Pioneer Bay and the Whitsunday Passages, with courses weaving between tropical islands under the reliable August trade winds. Off the water, the Festival of Sailing transforms the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawn into a vibrant village with live music, food stalls, and the legendary marquee where sailors and spectators mingle long into the night. The event culminates with fireworks over the water - the perfect end to an unforgettable week.

What to Expect at Airlie Beach Race Week

Race Week Schedule Overview

Where is Airlie Beach Race Week Held?

The hub of Airlie Beach Race Week is the Whitsunday Sailing Club, perched on Airlie Point with commanding views over Pioneer Bay and the Whitsunday Islands beyond. Known locally as "the best spot in town", the club's waterfront balcony and expansive lawn provide the perfect venue for the Festival of Sailing. Racing takes place in Pioneer Bay (visible from shore) and the Whitsunday Passages between the mainland and the islands.

What's Nearby

The Whitsunday Sailing Club sits at the end of the Bicentennial Walkway, which winds along the waterfront from Cannonvale through to Airlie Beach. After watching the racing, you can stroll back along the foreshore past the Airlie Beach Lagoon and into the heart of town for dinner.

Port of Airlie marina is just a short walk away, where many competing yachts berth during the regatta. Coral Sea Marina also fills up with Race Week competitors. If you're looking for places to eat in Airlie Beach, Main Street is just a 10-minute walk from the Sailing Club with dozens of restaurants, cafes, and bars.

What to Bring to Airlie Beach Race Week

Getting There & Parking

Parking Options

The Whitsunday Sailing Club has limited parking at the venue which fills early during Race Week. Additional parking is available at Port of Airlie (5-minute walk) and along the main street in Airlie Beach (10-15 minute walk). Street parking throughout town is your best bet - arrive early if you want to be close.

Walking & Transport

Walking is the easiest option during Race Week. From the main street of Airlie Beach, head towards the water and follow the foreshore path past the Lagoon to Airlie Point - about 10-15 minutes on foot. Taxis can drop you at the Sailing Club entrance on Ocean Road. If you're staying in Cannonvale or surrounds, the Bicentennial Walkway is a scenic way to arrive.

Airlie Beach Race Week Highlights

Over nearly four decades, Airlie Beach Race Week has built an impressive legacy as one of Australia's most loved regattas.

• 2024: World's first solar-powered regatta - onshore activities powered by mobile solar trailers
• 2025: 37th edition attracted over 130 boats and 6,000+ attendees. Brisbane 2032 Olympic sailing venue announcement added excitement
• 2022: Record fleet of 180+ boats with 1,400 crew and 2,500 total attendees
• 2019: Whales made an appearance during racing, carefully navigating through the fleet - a Race Week first
• 2016: Previous record fleet of 132 boats
• 2003: Professional event management introduced, pushing entries over 130
• 1988: Event founded as "Hog's Breath Cruising Classic" by Don Algie

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airlie Beach Race Week free to attend?

Yes, spectators can watch the racing and enjoy the Festival of Sailing entertainment for free. Only competitors pay entry fees to race.

Where is the best place to watch the racing?

The Whitsunday Sailing Club lawn and balcony offer excellent views of Pioneer Bay racing. The Airlie Beach foreshore is also good for spectating, though for the best views, book a spectator boat charter.

Is Airlie Beach Race Week family friendly?

Absolutely. The Festival of Sailing has a relaxed atmosphere with live music, food stalls, and plenty of space on the lawn for families. Children enjoy watching the yachts and there's a fun run during the week.

Can I crew on a yacht during Race Week?

Yes, many skippers look for crew. Check the official ABRW website crew availability section to connect with boats needing crew, or ask around at the Sailing Club - the sailing community is very welcoming.

What happens if it rains?

Racing continues in most conditions - sailors are hardy! The Festival of Sailing has covered areas including the Sailing Club interior and marquee for wet weather entertainment.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?

Definitely. Race Week is one of Airlie Beach's busiest weeks and accommodation books out months ahead. Reserve as early as possible for the best options.

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