Sail Airlie back in Whitsundays for 2025 Easter long weekend

A big Whitsunday sailing event is back this Easter long weekend, promising live music, delicious food and fast-paced racing action.

Sail Airlie is back for the 2025 Easter long weekend. Photo: Contributed

One of the Whitsundays most-anticipated sailing events is about to kick off giving locals and visitors a fun waterfront weekend.

The annual off-the-beach sailing regatta, Sail Airlie, would see sailors travel from all over the country to ring in the start of the regatta season right off the Airlie Beach shoreline.

The event with humble beginnings, starting as a local regatta for dinghy sailors in the 1970s, became an annual event in 2009 and with a steady increase in participation.

Whitsunday Sailing Club commodore Tammie Scharf said it had become a true celebration of grassroots sailing and the Whitsundays stunning coastal lifestyle.

“It’s an incredible spectacle both on and off the water,” she said.

“Expect fast-paced youth and senior dinghy racing, a vibrant community atmosphere and plenty of Easter weekend fun.”

She said the event was the perfect combination of competitive and social and was especially significant this year with the upcoming Nacra and Sabot National Titles in October and January, as well as the inclusion of Whitsundays for the Sailing in the 2032 Olympics.

The event is set to be bigger than ever with more on offer for sailors and non-sailors alike. Photo: Contributed

“It’s a chance to catch up with mates from other clubs, shake off the summer rust, and get some quality time on the water in one of Australia’s most beautiful sailing destinations,” she said.

“For junior sailors, it’s often their first big regatta experience – and one they’ll remember for life.”

Ms Scharf said this year will be bigger and better than ever with expanded racecourses, Waszps and Wing Foil sailors added to the line-up, and Waszps racing on their own dedicated course.

She added they were also making it easier for families to get involved and enjoy the weekend with live music, a cafe and restaurant serving food throughout the day, and upgrades to the Discover Sailing Centre fleet.

“Whether you’re a keen sailor, a proud parent, or someone who just loves the beachside buzz of Airlie, there’s something for you,” she said.

“Sailors will love the quality racing and camaraderie, while non-sailors can enjoy the waterfront action, live entertainment, and community atmosphere.

“It’s a fantastic Easter weekend for locals and visitors alike – and a great way to support our up-and-coming athletes.”

Catch all the action at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on April 18—20.

Originally published as Sail Airlie back in Whitsundays for 2025 Easter long weekend