No yacht race? No worries! White on Whitehaven going ahead

This year the long lunch will be a stand-alone event featuring fresh seafood, flowing champagne and a stunning backdrop.

Tickets are now on sale for the White on Whitehaven Long Lunch. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

A fresh seafood lunch will be served with a stunning tropical backdrop at the incredibly popular White on Whitehaven Long Lunch.

Previously held as part of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, this year the long lunch will be a stand-alone event hosted by Fish D’vine on May 29.

The Clipper Race is held every two years and is due to take place again in 2022-23.

The event is set to boost the region’s economy by drawing visitors from all around Australia and tickets are on sale now.

Tourism Whitsundays chief executive officer Tash Wheeler said this year’s White on Whitehaven Long Lunch would be the best yet.

“We are excited to see the long lunch returning to the Whitsundays’ events calendar,” she said.

“This year the event will be a stand-alone event at the end of May, which is a fantastic time of year.

“In May the temps are a little cooler, the skies are blue and thanks to the tropical season our rainforest and mountains are lush and green.”

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Mrs Wheeler said events played a significant role in driving repeat visitation to the region and building awareness of the Whitsundays.

“The long lunch showcases some of our best assets – fresh local seafood, Whitehaven Beach and the crystal clear waters accompanied by Laurenti champagne,” she said.

Fish D’vine co-owner Kev Collins said he was proud of the event’s evolution.

“We started doing this for private groups a couple of years ago and quickly realised it was too spectacular to be kept a secret for just a lucky few,” he said.

“We knew this had to become an annual event that everyone could purchase a ticket to attend.

“This year, patrons to the event will be treated to renowned Fish D’vine mojitos, Laurenti champagne, canapes and a fresh seafood station and that’s just for their arrival.

“We will then serve a delicious seafood buffet lunch, all COVID safe, of course.

“The day will be topped off by inclusive Australian wines, premium beers and Laurenti champagne flowing.”

Tickets are now on sale for the White on Whitehaven Long Lunch. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

Mayor Andrew Willcox said the council was proud to be a minor sponsor for a sensational event like the White on Whitehaven Long Lunch.

“There is a very good reason Whitehaven Beach has been regularly voted one of the best beaches in the world,” he said.

“It is nothing short of spectacular.

“This signature event on the iconic pure white sand of Whitehaven Beach will help showcase our region to Australia and the world.

“The Whitsundays is the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef and the social media exposure from the day will ensure travellers add us to their bucket list of travel destinations.”

Tickets are $399 per person and include:

– Transfers to and from Whitehaven Beach

– Mojitos, canapes, freshly shucked oysters, salmon sashimi and canapes on arrival

– Fresh seafood and barbecue meat buffet lunch (delivered in a COVID-safe manner)

– Bottomless Laurenti champagne, Australian wines, beer and soft drink

– Live entertainment

– Share dessert platters

For tickets and holiday packages click here.

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