Photography by HIRW/Andrea Francolini and Salty Dingo
03 July 2026
Tickets are now on sale for Hamilton Island Race Week 2026, with Australia’s premier offshore sailing regatta already attracting more than 170 entries.
Hamilton Island Race Week, presented by American Express, returns to the Whitsundays from 15 to 22 August 2026 for its 41st edition, combining competitive racing, premium hospitality and a week-long social program against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef.
The 2026 fleet reflects the broad appeal of the regatta, ranging from high-performance maxis and international entries to social sailors and first-time participants.
Among the entries is Wild Thing 100, the 100-foot maxi co-owned by Grant Wharington and Adrian Seiffert, alongside Aquila, a 6.9-metre Sonata 7. Hong Kong yachtsman Karl Kwok will also return to the regatta with Beau Ideal, which will compete in the Super 40 division.
Hamilton Island Chief Operating Officer Renae Trimble said the strength of early entries underlined the continued appeal of the event.
“Hamilton Island Race Week continues to attract sailors, spectators and holidaymakers from across Australia and around the world,” said Trimble.
With more than 170 boats already entered and tickets to the onshore program now on sale, we’re looking forward to welcoming competitors, spectators and holidaymakers back to Hamilton Island for another memorable Race Week this August.”
While racing remains central to the event, Hamilton Island Race Week has also become one of Australia’s leading sporting and lifestyle gatherings, with dining, entertainment and exclusive experiences scheduled throughout the week.
The 2026 social program includes the Long Lunch with Josh Niland and Khanh Ong, presented by American Express at Niland’s Catseye Pool Club, and an In Conversation event with Olympic silver medallist Olivia Price and America’s Cup sailor Cole Tapper at Bommie Restaurant.
Other highlights include the Kylie Minogue Wines Garden Party at Beach Pavilion, the Tanqueray Supper Club at Romano’s, the Race Day Long Lunch on the Keel Deck and spectator cruises aboard the superyacht Rascal.
American Express returns as Presenting Partner for 2026, joined by new and returning partners across the sailing, travel, luxury and lifestyle sectors.
Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience for American Express, said the regatta offered a distinctive mix of sport and hospitality.
“Hamilton Island Race Week combines sailing, travel, dining and entertainment in a way few Australian events can,” said Edwards.
“We’re proud to return as Presenting Partner of Hamilton Island Race Week and look forward to creating memorable experiences for our Card Members throughout the week.”
New partners for 2026 include Official Automotive Partner Volvo Cars, Official Superyacht Partner Ahoy Club, Saya Skincare and Kylie Minogue Wines.
Volvo Cars will showcase two flagship electric vehicles during the event, with models available for guest transfers and on display within the Hamilton Island Marina precinct.
Ahoy Club joins as Official Superyacht Partner, bringing its luxury yacht charter, brokerage and management expertise to the regatta. As part of the partnership, Ahoy Club will provide Rascal for Hamilton Island Race Week spectator cruises, offering guests an on-water view of the racing in Dent Passage and around the Whitsunday Islands.
Trimble said the event also plays an important role in supporting regional tourism and showcasing the Whitsundays to national and international audiences.
“We’re delighted to welcome new and returning sponsors who will boost both the competitor and guest experience on and off the water,” said Trimble.
“The 2026 program reflects everything that makes the event special: exceptional sailing, memorable dining experiences and the opportunity to experience the Whitsundays at their very best.”
Tickets, event experiences and accommodation packages are available via the Hamilton Island Race Week website.
