Festival of Sails 2025 Wrap: A Packed Long Weekend on the Waterfront
The 2025 Festival of Sails has once again cemented its place as one of Australia’s most beloved events, with a packed long weekend of thrilling world-class sailing and vibrant entertainment drawing thousands of visitors and competitors to Geelong’s waterfront. The festivities, which kicked off on Saturday, January 25, transformed the Waterfront into a hub of activity, with on-water action and a lively festival atmosphere keeping crowds engaged across the weekend.
182nd Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race
The Festival of Sails began with the iconic 182nd Nautica House Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race, where over 200 yachts took to the waters of Port Phillip Bay for the oldest continuously running sporting event in the Southern Hemisphere.
For the first time ever, the majestic tall ship STS Young Endeavour served as the official start boat, firing its cannon to mark the beginning of the race. This historic moment was broadcast live to the Festival Big Screen and across social media, allowing over 5,000 viewers from around the world to experience the excitement firsthand. [View Here]
In the end, it was RGYC boat Chutzpah, skippered by 46-time race veteran Bruce Taylor, that claimed line honours, adding yet another remarkable chapter to the history of this prestigious event.
Spectacular Entertainment on Land and in the Sky
While the sailing action thrilled competitors and spectators, entertainment across the waterfront kept the festival buzzing with live performances, breathtaking aerial displays, and incredible food offerings.
RAAF Roulettes Deliver A Thrilling Aerial Spectacle
Festival-goers were treated to a spectacular aerial display from the RAAF Roulettes on Day 1, as the elite flying team soared over the waterfront, performing breathtaking maneuvers against the backdrop of Corio Bay. The high-speed aerobatics drew gasps from the crowd and set the tone for an action-packed weekend of festivities.
Rocking the Regatta Village Stage
As the aerial action unfolded in the skies, The Southern River Band delivered an electrifying performance on the Regatta Village Stage, their signature Aussie rock energy sending waves through the waterfront crowd. The night wrapped up with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the bay and marking a spectacular start to the Festival.
On Day 2, the Regatta Village turned into a massive Queen singalong, with Queen Forever commanding the stage. Their powerhouse tribute performance had the audience bellowing Freddie Mercury lyrics for hours, creating an atmosphere that resonated throughout the entire Festival site.
Food, Drinks & Festival Fun
This year’s hospitality offerings elevated the festival experience, with Paddock by the Bay and Foredeck by Woolstore proving popular dining hubs for visitors. Both precincts offered a diverse selection of food and drinks, ensuring festivalgoers could enjoy great eats and refreshing beverages while soaking up the vibrant waterfront atmosphere.
Families also enjoyed free entertainment, from roving performers to interactive activities, making the Festival a perfect destination for visitors of all ages.
Australia’s Biggest Come & Try Sailing Event
Adding to the excitement, the Festival of Sails 2025 hosted Australia’s largest-ever Come & Try Sailing program, with over 500 participants taking to the water on state-of-the-art RS21 keelboats. Open to all ages and abilities, this free initiative introduced many to the sport for the first time in a safe and welcoming environment.
“We’re thrilled with the incredible response to this program,” said Drew Malcolm, Sailing & Boating Manager at the Royal Geelong Yacht Club. “It’s amazing to see so many people from the community getting out on the water and discovering the joy of sailing.”
STS Young Endeavour: A Festival Favourite
Beyond its role as the official start boat for the Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race, the STS Young Endeavour was a festival highlight during its two-day public open dock at Wangim Walk. Over 1,200 visitors stepped aboard to explore the historic tall ship, making it one of the most popular attractions of the weekend.
“The turnout for our Open Day was incredible,” said Lieutenant Commander Andrew Leupen, Commanding Officer of STS Young Endeavour. “Seeing so many people—young and old—step aboard and learn about the ship’s legacy was truly inspiring.”
A Huge Weekend for Geelong
Despite the cancellation of racing on Monday, the Festival of Sails 2025 still delivered a memorable weekend of sailing, entertainment, and community connection. From the thrill of racing on the bay to the buzz of live music, aerial displays, and waterfront hospitality, the festival once again showcased the best of Geelong’s waterfront lifestyle.
The countdown now begins for Festival of Sails 2026, promising another unforgettable long weekend filled with sailing, entertainment, and celebration.
