Hamilton Island Race Week

Hamilton Island race week has been a highlight of the Australian racing calendar since 1983. It was conceived by David Hutcheon who moved to the Whitsundays with his yacht "Banjo Patterson" which still operates from Hamilton Island as a charter boat. He joined with the then owner of the island Keith Williams to host an annual sailing regatta. The first race year was in 1984 and a fleet of 93 boats participated. Originally race week was held in April however for better weather conditions it has been moved to August and has been run then since 1992. The race has grown significantly since its inception and is now an event that caters for both the serious ocean racer, the cruising yachtsman looking for a bit of fun and the serious party animal who is looking for a great time.

There are four races during the carnival and nine different classes of vessels participating. The races are the South Molle/ Daydream Island race, the Coral Sea race, the Edward Island race and the Lindeman Island race. The classes are the IRC grand prix class for top class racers, the one design class, the performance grand prix class, the premier passage class intended for modern fast cruising yachts over 14 meters, the IRC passage class for cruising yachts under 14 meters, the performance passage class, the classic class for boats that were built for racing prior to 1978, the cruising class for all types of cruising yachts and the non spinnaker class. All IRC handicapped boats must hold a valid IRC rating certificate.

Most people live aboard their yacht during race week however Hamilton Island resort can assist with accommodation for those who wish to stay ashore. Many berth at the marina which becomes a really busy place. Facilities at the marina include showers, toilets, laundry, internet and repairs. You do not need to book a berth during race week however there will always be a certain amount of rafting required due to the large numbers of participants. Marina berths are free for contestants.

If you need any further information about race week don?t hesitate to ask us and we can also help to arrange things like resort accommodation if you require. Hamilton Island Race Week is a special event not to be missed by any serious yachtsman so come and have a great time.