Magnetic Island Race Week: Sail & Spectate with Pilgrim
Magnetic Island Race Week isn’t just about the racing—it’s your opportunity to sail, relax, and soak up the thrill in style.
A fun time to be on Magnetic Island
Held annually in late August (27th August to 2nd September 2026), SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week marks the final stop in the northern Queensland regatta circuit — following the prestigious Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach Race Weeks.
Featuring competitive monohull and multihull divisions, it’s loved for its spectacular North Queensland setting: clear tropical waters, relaxed island atmosphere, and (occasionally) playful light breezes in the afternoons.
Unlike the bigger regattas, Maggie Island’s Race Week pairs serious sailing with a sociable, down-to-earth vibe. The marina buzzes with post-race energy, and spectators can soak up the action both onshore and offshore — with a drink in hand, or better yet, from the water itself.
The Best Way to Watch Race Week
Race Week escapes for Shore Crew — start-line views, swim stops and local food & drinks
Shore Crew Sailing Escape (Private Charter)
Best for: Partners, families and friends who want a tailored Race Week day timed around the action.
Highlights
Front-row race start viewing, then slip away to quiet bays
Relaxed sailing + coastal sightseeing around Magnetic Island
Anchor in a quiet bay for lunch and swimming
Prawn & antipasto lunch + wine/beer included
Hosted by a Master Reef Guide (reef & marine-life insights)
CONTACT US — and we’ll tailor your Private Day Charter for Race Week
From $229 per person. Min. numbers apply.
Front-Row Race Action & Commentary (aboard Sandy)
Best for: Shore Crew who want the racing up close — with beach-hopping between the racing.
Highlights
Fast-boat access to start-line action + mark roundings
Live race commentary from Paul, Pilgrim’s owner and experienced race skipper
Duck into secluded bays & hidden beaches between race moments for swimming, snorkelling & a picnic
Local prawns and antipasto gourmet picnic
Bonus: possible whale sightings offshore
BOOK NOW - Private Sandy charter, timed to the best race moments.
From $269 per person. (Private charter 2-4 guests)
Shared Lunchtime Sailing Cruise (Race Week)
Best for: Shore Crew in small groups who want an easy day out and enjoy a social/shared sail.
Highlights
Join a shared sail, perfect if you don’t have a big group
Race Week atmosphere + possible fleet spotting (conditions and course dependent)
Coastal scenery, sailing time and a laid-back Magnetic Island vibe
Prawn & antipasto lunch + wine/beer, plus a swim stop
BOOK NOW - Relaxed sailing, gourmet lunch and Maggie highlights on the water.
$229 per person. Max 12 guests on board.
Pilgrim’s Racing Roots & America’s Cup Connection
Pilgrim was built with a vision to be both fast and elegant. Designed by Scott Kaufman and crafted in inland NSW, she was finished in 1992 in Fremantle by SE Ward & Co — the same team behind Australia II, the 1983 America’s Cup winner.
Her elliptical keel was cast from melted-down lead from Kookaburra III, the Australia II chase boat and that racing DNA paid off: Pilgrim won Division One at Magnetic Island Race Week in 2015. A classic yacht with a competitive streak — and a story to match.
Paul Ley, co-owner of Pilgrim Magnetic Island, is a two-time Sydney to Hobart skipper with deep Race Week experience — having skippered Pilgrim and other yachts at Hamilton Island Race Week, competed in Magnetic Island Race Week offshore races, and skippered Pilgrim to victory in 2015. He’s excited to host you on Sandy, our 5.2 metre RIB and get in amongst the action!
Race Week on Magnetic Island Social Calendar
Join in the fun during Race Week, find out all the events: 2026’s Calendar - Coming Soon