Hamilton Island Race Week 2024 is around the corner and southerners shivering through the winter season, are dreaming of warm days, exquisite chef dinners and joyful reunions, all set against the backdrop of Australia’s most beloved winter sailing competition.
Hamilton Island Race Week © Salty Dingo 2023
For the 39th edition from 18-24 August, 170 boats of all sizes and close to 2,000 sailors from all walks of life will reunite at Hamilton Island including the two-time Rolex Sydney Hobart overall winner Alive (Duncan Hine), the Oatley family’s 66-foot Wild Oats X, sistership to champion Australian maxi Wild Oats XI, and a fleet of TP52’s, including Marcus Blackmore’s new custom design Hooligan.
The world-class racing is also the catalyst for a week of superb shoreside events and camaraderie.
All week spectators and competitors alike can feel part of the on-water action from onboard Quantum. The luxurious 120 foot super yacht will take guests to the racetrack twice daily (10am and 1pm) for a front row seat of the day’s racing while enjoying champagne and canapés. There is a good chance guests will also come across humpback whales and calves cruising around the turquoise waters of their Whitsundays nursery.
Thursday 22 August – Celebrated guest chef Trisha Greentree (Mr Wong’s and Fratelli Paradiso) will take over the coca chu kitchen for an unforgettable culinary journey of an Asian-inspired wine-paired menu that emphasizes simplicity, seasonality, and creativity.
Friday 23 August – Long Lunch by the Sea at Catseye Beach is a Race Week tradition promising a sumptuous dining experience accompanied by Piper Heidsieck Champagne and a selection of exquisite wines. Savour perfect mouthfuls at this spectacular vantage point while watching Grand Prix racers, down to tiny trailables vie for race honours right off the beach.
Some tickets for the coveted social program are still available.
Race Week also offers a variety of non-ticketed events, including the popular Eat Street food market, which features exciting new additions this year. Live entertainment kicks off daily at 4pm on Front Street, with performances by Duke, Trent Bell, Tuxedo Riot, and Classic Oz, among others.
Don’t forget the annual Prix d’Elegance on Thursday, 22nd August 2024, at 9:30am. And for the first time ever, join us for an 80’s Party on Front Street on Friday, 23rd August, starting at 7pm. Dust off your leg warmers, tease up your hair, and get ready to rock the catwalk in your most radical 80’s-themed outfit. It’s your chance to shine in the ultimate throwback fashion show! Our panel of judges will be on the lookout for the most creative, outrageous, and authentic 80’s looks, so don’t hold back!
Hamilton Island CEO Pete Brulisauer says, “We are delighted to welcome back sailors and spectators for this highly anticipated event, filled with competition and camaraderie on and off the water. I wish all crews an exceptional week of sailing and hope you encounter excellent racing conditions.”
Hamilton Island Race Week © Salty Dingo 2023
