Sailing: Hamilton Island Race Week, Australia

Hamilton Island Race Week celebrates 40 years this August – marking four decades of world-class sailing, exceptional food and wine, and sun-soaked revelry on Australia’s tropical island. Presented by American Express, the 2025 regatta runs from 16-23 August with a lineup of unmissable world-class experiences and events on water and on shore.

What began as a niche offshore sailing regatta in 1984 has evolved into a week-long festival of sport, style and island culture – attracting crews, chefs, celebrities, and spectators from around the country and abroad. 

While the regatta remains the focal point – with some of the world’s best crews competing in spectacular Whitsundays conditions – this is by no means a week just for sailors. Guests can wander the buzzing marina village, relax with a picnic on Catseye Beach, or indulge in an array of ticketed events including beachfront garden parties, superyacht cruises, wine masterclasses, world-class musical performances, and long island lunches curated by some of Australia’s most celebrated chefs—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsundays.

Nick Dowling, CEO of Hamilton Island, said: “Race Week’s 40th anniversary is a landmark moment. What began as a simple sailing competition has become a spectacle of sail racing, culinary excellence, and island fun. It’s not just about sailing the most picturesque course in the world – it’s about celebrating everything that makes Hamilton Island so special – world-class experiences, a vibrant food and wine scene, and the incredible atmosphere and camaraderie that events like Race Week bring to the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.” 

For more information see hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au and hamiltonisland.com.au