While the regatta remains the focal point—with some of the world’s best crews competing in spectacular Whitsundays conditions—this is by no means a week just for sailors. Guests can wander the buzzing marina village, relax with a picnic on Catseye Beach, or indulge in an array of ticketed events including beachfront garden parties, superyacht cruises, wine masterclasses, world-class musical performances, and long island lunches curated by some of Australia’s most celebrated chefs—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsundays.

Nick Dowling, CEO of Hamilton Island, said, “Race Week’s 40th anniversary is a landmark moment. What began as a simple sailing competition has become a spectacle of sail racing, culinary excellence, and island fun.

“It’s not just about sailing the most picturesque course in the world, it’s about celebrating everything that makes Hamilton Island so special – world-class experiences, a vibrant food and wine scene, and the incredible atmosphere and camaraderie that events like Race Week bring to the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”

Highlights include:

• La Dolce Vita Lunch by the Sea with Will Cowper presented by American Express (17 August): OTTO Brisbane’s Executive Chef brings his signature flair to an indulgent modern Italian lunch on the shores of Pebble Beach, qualia.
• The Island Welcome: Beachfront Garden Party at Catseye Beach (17 August): A sun-kissed afternoon of gourmet grazing, live music and chic seaside vibes, beginning with a glass of Piper Heidsieck champagne on arrival and views over the turquoise waters of Catseye Bay.
• Front Row with Impulsive Superyacht (17, 19 and 22 August): Front-row seats to the on-water action aboard a 130-foot luxury yacht, complete with Champagne and canapés.
• An Italian Evening with Tanqueray (19 August): A spirited celebration of Italian coastal cuisine—served with a generous splash of Tanqueray gin with a marina backdrop.
• Whitehaven Afloat with Impulsive Superyacht (20 August): A playful day of snorkelling, gourmet food, floating slides, and barefoot fun aboard Superyacht Impulsive at the world’s best beach.
• Lunch on the Greens at Hamilton Island Golf Club (21 August): A three-course long lunch, featuring seasonal local produce, fine wine, live tunes and incredible Dent Passage views.
• Wine Stories with Larry Cherubino at Bommie 21 August): An exclusive wine tasting with one of Australia’s most celebrated winemakers, and a special drop to take home.
• Under the Stars: A Beachside Dinner with Alanna Sapwell-Stone and Larry Cherubino (21 August): A four-course coastal feast on Catseye Beach, paired with WHIPBIRD wines and storytelling by the winemaker himself.
• The Sundays Long Lunch with Josh Niland presented by MECCA Cosmetica (22 August): A relaxed island-style long lunch at The Sundays’ signature restaurant, Catseye Pool Club – where one of Australia’s most influential chefs takes centre stage.

For those seeking the ultimate Race Week, qualia and new boutique hotel, The Sundays, offer exclusive curated experiences – from private chef-led beach lunches and candlelit degustations, to intimate performances, such as a special appearance by internationally acclaimed soprano Amy Manford.

Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience at American Express commented, “We’re thrilled to be the presenting partner for the 40th anniversary of Hamilton Island Race Week.

“American Express is dedicated to offering our Card Members exclusive access to premier events and we look forward to bringing our signature touch to this iconic regatta and week-long festivities.”

2025 also welcomes new partners, including Panerai and Balter, alongside the return of AV Partners, Mecca Cosmetica, Piper-Heidsieck, Tanqueray, Casamigos, Revo, Robert Oatley Wines, Sail Racing, and Tourism and Events Queensland, and longstanding partner Nautilus Marine Insurance.

Whether you’re racing, relaxing, or raising a glass, Hamilton Island Race Week 2025 is your invitation to trade winter for warm seas, Champagne moments, and sun-soaked indulgence.

hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au