Magnetic Island Race Week: Sail & Spectate with Pilgrim
Magnetic Island Race Week isn’t just about the racing—it’s an opportunity to sail, socialise, and soak up the race week energy.
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
Choose your pace: relaxed hosted sailing aboard Pilgrim (our comfortable yacht with great food and warm hospitality), or a faster, more adventurous day on Sandy (our RIB for up-close race moments plus beach-hopping and exploring Magnetic Island by sea).
No sailing experience needed — just step aboard and enjoy the best of the week from the water.
Private Sail: Watch the start then relax for a swim and a Long Lunch
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)
On board: 58 foot sailing yacht, Pilgrim
CONTACT US — and we’ll tailor your Private Day Charter for Race Week
From $229 per person. Min. numbers apply.
Front-Row Race Action + Island Bay Explorer (with Live Commentary)
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
On board: 5.2 metre Rigid Inflatable Boat, Sandy.
BOOK NOW - Private Sandy charter, timed to the best race moments.
From $269 per person. (Private charter 2-4 guests)
Race Week Lunchtime Sail: Shared Cruise, Swim Stop & Gourmet Prawns
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
On board: 58 foot sailing yacht, Pilgrim
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