More Ways To Race At Festival of Sails 2027

Five major championships, more ways to race and free January berthing for interstate boats are helping make Festival of Sails 2027 one of the most accessible editions of Australia’s historic regatta.

Whether you’re a seasoned championship competitor, entering for the first time or returning after a few years away, there’s a place for you at Festival of Sails 2027.

PASSAGE MINI SERIES

Thinking about entering Festival of Sails for the first time? Or perhaps it’s been a few years since you last raced with us? The Passage Mini Series is a great way to get involved without committing to a full racing series.

Designed for eligible first-time competitors, sailors returning after five or more years away and RGYC registered boats, the Mini Series offers two races for a $190 entry fee.

Your Passage Mini Series Experience Includes:

– Saturday 23 January: The historic Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race, joining the fleet for one of Australia’s great sailing traditions.
– Sunday 24 January: A second race on Corio Bay, with the chance to experience our renowned flat water racing conditions.
– Sailors Lounge access: A dedicated place to relax and catch up with fellow competitors after racing.
– A welcome round of drinks: Celebrate with your crew after a day on the water.

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TRAVELLING FROM INTERSTATE? ENJOY FREE BERTHING ALL JANUARY!

Interstate boats entered in Festival of Sails 2027 are eligible for complimentary berthing at Royal Geelong Yacht Club from 1–31 January 2027.

It’s a great opportunity for crews returning from the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, offering the flexibility to enjoy Geelong before and after the Festival. And there’s plenty to discover beyond RGYC and the waterfront, from Geelong to the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast and Great Ocean Road.

With a full month of berthing available, why not make a summer sailing holiday of it?

Check out our Geelong Destination guide.

FIVE MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS

For those chasing championship competition, the wider Festival of Sails January program features five major titles.

The Australian Yachting Championship headlines the main Festival racing program, hosted in partnership with Australian Sailing and Sandringham Yacht Club. Racing begins at Sandringham on Friday 22 January, before the fleet joins the Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race on Saturday 23 January and continues racing on Corio Bay.

The Festival will also host the Australian Sports Boat Association National Championship and S80 Victorian Championship. Earlier in January, the Etchells Australasian Summer Championship and Etchells Australian Championship add to the month’s sailing program.

From competitive championship fleets to shorter racing formats, Festival of Sails offers something for sailors with a wide range of experience and ambitions. Your place on the start line awaits!

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