Sail Port Stephens 2026 will be the biggest and best in the regatta’s 18-year history, with new events being added to further spice up the racing format.
For the first week, more than one hundred yachts will contest the iconic Commodores Cup Passage Series on the sparkling waters of Port Stephens.
The highlight of Week 2 is the grand-prix 3-day regatta featuring a new Interclub 40 teams challenge, an Australian Invitational Challenge with Elliott 6 keelboats, and a sportsboat/J70s series. Additionally, the NSW Yachting Championship will showcase world-class IRC boats and TP52s.
The all-new Super Series will debut ‘Cat Stephens’ for cruising multihulls, alongside an international series featuring Elliott 6 racers, and a Super Racer Cruiser division for luxury yachts over 50ft, commencing and concluding off Nelson Bay, while dinghies will sail from the Bay Sailing Centre.
In a unique development for 2026, d’Albora Nelson Bay will host a dedicated race village and regatta headquarters, with vendor stalls and kids’ entertainment throughout the event. The breakwall will create a natural amphitheatre, complete with a grandstand and commentator for spectators to enjoy the racing.
Post-racing activities will include daily results, live entertainment, daily media updates, and a local hospitality scene. A significant community event is the Sail Port Stephens Street Party hosted by Port Stephens Council on Wednesday the 15th, strengthening ties between the regatta and the local community.
This expansion has been facilitated by the continuous support of Destination NSW, Port Stephens Council, Pantaenius Australia, and other long-time supporters.
Regatta Director Paul O’Rourke expressed the commitment to enhance participant experiences while engaging the local community, stating that the Race Village and Spectator Grandstand will establish Sail Port Stephens as a premier destination event in Australia.
New catamaran and inshore divisions will offer more opportunities for competitors. Racing Manager Jack Buchan noted that while expanding divisions can be challenging due to limited berthing, introducing inshore sailing aims to increase on-water activity and encourage greater local participation.
Competitors will have access to the Sail Port Stephens WhatsApp group for regular event announcements, including daily briefings, course information, and social schedules.
Registrations are now open for Sail Port Stephens 2026. See the website and follow the links under the racing tab.
Website: https://www.sailportstephens.com.au/
WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CBYK7u8OTMO0vh1XSHykov?mode=wwc
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