southport to mackay yacht Race / 520nm / 28 Jul - 4 aug 2025
7 days / cat 2 yacht race / EVENT #2530 / merit: crew positions available
The Southport Yacht Club’s, Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race is an exhilarating offshore sailing event that draws sailors and spectators from all over the world. Spanning approximately 520 nautical miles, this challenging race offers a perfect blend of coastal and open sea sailing, making it a thrilling experience for seasoned sailors and an inspiring spectacle for enthusiasts. Hosted the prestigious but friendly, Southport Yacht Clubs, the race kicks off in the vibrant Gold Coast city of Southport, known for its stunning beaches, bustling marinas, and a rich maritime culture. From here, participants embark on a journey that takes them north along the picturesque Queensland coast, culminating in the tropical city of Mackay, renowned for its natural beauty and warm hospitality.
One of the race's highlights is the varied and often demanding sailing conditions, which test the skills and strategies of every crew member. Competitors navigate through changing weather patterns, shifting winds, and a variety of sea states, from the calm stretches along the coast to the more unpredictable open waters. This dynamic environment not only demands top-notch sailing techniques but also offers sailors the chance to push their limits, experience the thrill of the open ocean, and revel in the camaraderie of offshore racing.
Merit leads the fleet under sail at Hamilton Island Race Week
Merit in action on the wind
The Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race is more than just a test of skill; it's a celebration of Australia's stunning east coast. Along the route, sailors pass by iconic islands inside the Great Barrier Reef and pristine coastal stretches. These breathtaking views provide a scenic backdrop to the race, creating moments of awe and wonder amidst the competition. Moreover, the race fosters a sense of community, bringing together sailors of all levels. From professional racing crews to passionate amateurs, everyone shares the same spirit of adventure, teamwork, and a love for the sea.
Beyond the race itself, the event includes a series of pre-race and post-race activities, such as social gatherings, briefings, and award ceremonies, adding to the vibrant and festive atmosphere. The finish line in Mackay is especially celebrated, with a warm welcome awaiting the competitors. Here, sailors can unwind, share their racing tales, and enjoy the tropical charm of Mackay with its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and diverse local culture.
Whether you're a sailor seeking a thrilling offshore challenge or a spectator eager to witness the excitement of yacht racing, the Southport to Mackay Yacht Race, promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of adventure, competition, and the stunning beauty of Australia’s coastline.
FIRST MATE'S DEAL - BOOK NOW
SHARED CABIN $3,750 (PER BERTH)
7 DAYS
SEA MASTER’S SAVER $4,250 - TO RELEASE
CAPTAINS CHOICE $4,750 - TO RELEASE
ADMIRAL’S ADVANTAGE $5,250 - TO RELEASE
Prices are in $AUD
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Additional media
Check out photo gallery highlights from a previous race.
itinerary
You can fly directly into Gold Coast or Brisbane Airport on the 28th of July to arrive at the yacht at the Southport Yacht Club by 4pm. Our crew will gather for a welcome dinner and then start a 2 day vessel training and safety familiarisation program the following day. The race starts outside the Southport Seaway on the 31st of July with a 2 - 3 day race up the Queensland Coast expected. You are welcome to stay onboard for the 3 nights before departure, but the vessel is a race yacht, with minimal home comforts, so staying in accommodation nearby is recommended.
When we arrive in Mackay, we’ll head ashore for post race celebrations and the prize giving presentation. You should plan to depart Mackay Airport from midday onwards on the 4th of August, although departure earlier is possible depending on wind direction and race time.
Arrive at Brisbane or Gold Coast 28/7/25
Arrive at the vessel at Southport Yacht Club by 4pm on 28/7/25
Crew training and safety familiarisation 29-30/7/25
Race 31/7/25 - 3/8/25
Depart Mackay Airport after 12 pm on the 4/8/25 onwards
HERE’S WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD
Sailing: Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather).
Watch duties: Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls.
Weather: Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination.
Navigation: Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s.
Leadership: Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication.
Safety: Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures.
Training: Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions.
Personal wellbeing: Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard.
Passage planning: Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan.
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Southport and Mackay on day of arrival, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, an Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew jacket, marina fees, race entry fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
A 2-day pre-race, training program including meals onboard, valued at $995 is also included.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear.
You will need to complete a 2-day Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent at least 1 month prior.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
