As one of the most highly anticipated fixtures on the international sailing calendar, every year people from across the world make their way to the Whitsundays for Race Week.
With an incredible line-up of on-water and on-shore events planned, the 2022 schedule is shaping up to be one to remember.
Whether you’re a sailor or a spectator, this is your chance to enjoy a week of captivating competition and celebrate the best in sailing, food and wine.
Ready to set sail? Here’s what you can expect…
On-Water Events
Get right amongst the action and excitement by cheering on all of the on-water events. This year’s schedule includes a variety of race classes as well as the infamous Prix d’ Elegance.
Image credit: Hamilton Island Race Week
Prix d’ Elegance
Since its debut in 2007, the Prix d’ Elegance has called on sailing enthusiasts to get creative for their chance to win a series of different prizes. There are two categories in the event:
- The best-presented yacht - This prize is awarded to a perfectly presented boat with a crew in matching uniforms on deck. The yacht can be subtly themed, as long as it’s still presentable.
- The best-themed yacht - This division offers a lot more room to showcase flair and creativity, with themes of past winners including political satire, tropical island settings, bubble baths and even Michael Jackson.
The Races
With over 200 yachts set to race along the sparkling blue waters of the Whitsundays, this year’s line-up is nothing short of jam-packed. There is a grand prix class for top-class racers, an IRC passage class for modern, fast-cruising yachts, as well as performance racing and sports boat divisions. There are also options for cruising, corporate, bareboat, and non-spinnaker divisions. Check out the full schedule here, and get ready to cheer on from the shore. If you’re lucky you might even get a glimpse of the action from your WAHI balcony!
Image credit: Hamilton Island Race Week
On-shore Events
Race week not only consists of yacht races, but it’s also a week-long string of social on-shore activities including food markets, fashion events and cocktail parties. Here’s what’s on the itinerary for this year’s Race Week.
Image credit: Hamilton Island Race Week
Wild Oats Wines Ladies Lunch
How does a delicious seaside lunch sound? Join the Wild Oats Wines team at the Beach Pavilion on the 21st of August for a long waterfront lunch served with impeccably matched Wild Oats Wines. Come dressed in your best resort-chic wear and get ready to laugh the afternoon away with all the girls.
Surf and Turf Dinner
The Surf and Turf Dinner is undoubtedly one of the crowd’s favourite on-shore events. It’s easy to see why too! The sit-down dinner combines everyone’s favourites in one evening. We’re talking surf, turf, beer and mates. As you’re indulging in delicious fare and toasting to the evening, you can also enjoy entertainment from one of Australia’s funniest comedians. Lock in the 22nd of August at Beach Pavilion, because you won’t want to miss this one.
Image credit: Hamilton Island Race Week
Robert Oatley Wine Dinner
Can we tempt you with an exquisite four-course dinner? Did we mention the inclusion of the Oatley family’s best vinos? It’s a match made in wine-lovers heaven! You’ll be guided through the evening by Sandy Oatley and Darren Jahan, who’ll share their fascinating journey throughout Western and South Australian vineyards. It’s all happening on the 23rd of August at the Bommie Restaurant.
Charles Hiedsieck Champagne Luncheon
Make your way down to Qualia on the 24th of August for the Charles Heidsieck Champagne Luncheon to celebrate Lay Day in true style. You can expect an elegant long lunch at Long Pavilion, with expertly paired Charles Heidsieck wines.
Dinner with Will Cowper
Where cosmopolitan style meets coastal ambience, Dinner with Will Cowper is simply a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Head Chef of Brisbane’s Otto Restaurant will serve authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist and an abundance of local produce. Kick the night off with sunset cocktails and then experience the magic of dinner overlooking Catseye Beach. Dinner with Will Cowper is scheduled for the 25th of August at Beach Pavilion.
Presentation Dinner
Before you wrap up the excitement of Race Week, there’s time for one last hurrah! Celebrate the finale with the Presentation Dinner on Saturday the 27th of August. This is where the regatta’s winners are revealed, including the 2022 Australian Yachting Champions. For a three-course feast, drinks, and live entertainment, you’ll want to be at the Conference Centre from 6 pm.
Race Week is such a popular event that this season is completely sold out and bookings for next year’s event have already started trickling in. If you don’t want to miss out on the iconic Race Week event in 2023, make sure you book your stay with us today!
