Are you ready to witness the thrill of one of Australia’s most recent ocean races? The Second Edition of the GCCM Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race is set to captivate sailing enthusiasts and spectators alike. With just a week to go, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
Unveiling the Race Details
- Distance: 520 Nautical Miles
- Start Location: Surfers Paradise
- Finish Location: Mackay
- Start Date and Time: August 1, 2025, at 1 pm
- Live Coverage: Begins on Friday, August 1, at 12:30 pm – https://goldcoastmackay.com/livetracker
A Spectacular Line-Up
This year’s race features 28 yachts from around the globe, including entries from the USA, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and various Australian states. The competition is fierce, with the defending Line Honours champion, Supermaxi Wild Thing 100, returning to defend its title. Grant Wharington and his crew are back in 2025 with a 6m taller mast and wardrobe of larger sails, after purchasing Wild Oats XI’s mast and a rigorous refit scheduled at the Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard early 2025. Check out here more about the refit at GCCM:
https://www.facebook.com/goldcoastcitymarina/videos/655601107192650
Exclusive Offers for Competitors
Participants of the race can take advantage of a 20% exclusive discount on boat lift and hardstand services at the Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM) before and after the race. This offer ensures that every yacht is in peak condition for the competition.
Spectator Opportunities
Whether you’re on the beach, the esplanade, or in high-rise hotels, there are numerous vantage points to witness the start of the race. The Gold Coast Seaway Break wall offers a fantastic location to send off the fleet. For those unable to attend in person, live coverage will be available online.
Safety First
IMPORTANT INFO FOR THE COMPETITORS: NOR AMENDMENT – NEW SAFETY STANDARD
After the release of the findings into the tragic events of the Rolex Sydney Hobart 2024 by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), Southport Yacht Club has today announced a safety revision to their Notice of Race (NOR) for the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race (GCMYR), which kicks off on the 1st of August.
Commodore of Southport Yacht Club Glenn Burrell said, “The safety of crew members will always be paramount, and safety measures are constantly reviewed. As technology advances, we must utilise any significant improvements, particularly in the case of aiding the rescue of stricken vessels and their crew.”
Read more about the new compulsory for all safety standard here: https://goldcoastmackay.com/news
Mackay Race Village: The Place to Be
The excitement doesn’t end at the finish line. The 2025 Mackay Race Village promises a vibrant atmosphere with activities and entertainment for everyone:
- Saturday Night: Expected Line Honours arrival and live music at Sails Sports Bar.
- Sunday: Enjoy breakfast at Mantra Mackay, explore the Race Village Markets, and experience live broadcasts and music throughout the day.
- Monday into Tuesday: More yacht arrivals, live music, Sarina Sugar Shed Rum tasting, and the anticipated Race Presentation.
Join the Adventure
Follow the race with the Live Tracker on big outdoor screens or meet the skippers on the Superyacht docks. For those looking to witness the finish, head to the end of the Southern Breakwater Road. Stay updated with live progress on the official race village page.
Are you ready to experience the thrill and excitement of the GCCM Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race? Visit Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard for more information and to see how we support this incredible event.
