Sails Set to Soar: Port Stephens Gears Up for Month-Long Maritime Festival

newy.com.au – Sail Port Stephens is charting a vibrant course for 2025 with a full month of high-octane yacht racing and dynamic community events that promise something for everyone. Starting from Monday, 31 March 2025, the internationally recognised regatta offers a packed schedule of sailing action through to Saturday, 4 May 2025.

The regatta kicks off with the Commodores Cup and Port Stephens Trophy from 31 March to 5 April, followed by the SPS Performance Series between 25 and 27 April. Wrapping up the on-water excitement is the Bay Series from 2 to 4 May, featuring races for sports boats, J70s, and dinghies. Each segment of the event highlights the natural beauty and sailing conditions that Port Stephens is famed for.

Complementing the sailing are key community-focused festivities. One of the standout social events is the Sail Port Stephens Street Party, lighting up Nelson Bay on Wednesday, 2 April. Held along Magnus and Stockton Streets from 4pm to 9pm, the family-friendly party includes live entertainment, street performers, food stalls, local market vendors, and late-night shopping. Live music will play at two stages and roving acts will keep crowds energised well into the evening.

To give locals and visitors prime vantage points, Port Stephens Council is also hosting Locals Lounges – relaxed viewing areas with seating and live race commentary. These are scheduled at Nelson Bay Foreshore on Thursday and Friday, 4 and 5 April, and again at Soldiers Point on Saturday, 3 May. It’s an ideal way to soak in the action while enjoying the coastline’s hospitality.

Sail Port Stephens is not only a visual spectacle but also a key economic boost for the region. “This event brings in thousands of visitors and supports our hotels, marinas, cafes and restaurants,” said Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson. “It also helps put our stunning region on the map.”

A full schedule of racing, onshore events, and viewing locations is available at pscouncil.info/sail-port-stephens-2025.