For those who like their boating adrenalin-fuelled, well at least to watch, then Sail GP Sydney is a not to be missed event. This racing takes fast, high performance to the next level with uniquely designed foiling boats which effectively ‘fly’ and reach incredible speeds. You may have seen fast-racing with 18’ skiffs but Sail GP takes that up multiple notches. Watch the videos on the sail GP website to get a real feel for how this is a very different type of sailing.
The competition or platform as it is referred to, is a unique concept. Specially designed boats representing national teams of ace sailing crews, competing in various locations throughout the world. The circuit includes San Francisco, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Auckland, Bermuda, Halifax, New York and Sydney.
The points from each round go towards the overall score with the ultimate winner each year being the highest scoring team. A number of short course races around markers are conducted at each location over two days of racing. Sydney is the next event on the calendar with racing to be held over the weekend of 24 and 25 February on Sydney Harbour. Tip – the boats arrive early and are out on the harbour practicing from around the Thursday and Friday. Great chance to see them in action before racing gets underway.
The 2023 event was disrupted on day 1 which forced an abandonment racing on the Sunday. A fierce storm swept through Sydney, hitting the land base for the event, damaging boats and facilities. Organisers, crews and spectators will be hoping for the right winds but no freak storms so the 2024 event can proceed as planned.
The Australian team is skippered by highly decorated and experienced sailor Tom Slingsby. Slingsby's team is currently atop the leaderboard ahead of our national arch rivals New Zealand. So not only will our national pride be at stake, but also cross Tasman bragging rights.
There are 10 teams in the 2024 series – Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Canada, USA, Germany, Great Britain, Spain and Switzerland. Crews include a stellar line-up of Olympic sailors, world champions and experienced competitors across many classes. These are elite athletes and when you see the racing, their skill and expertise is truly appreciated. The racing will be fierce, the atmosphere nail-biting and the experience – something to excite and inspire.
Sail GP Sydney – Event Details
Racing is conducted on Sydney Harbour around the Rose Bay central Harbour area. Race times are 4pm to 5.30pm on the Saturday and Sunday. Organisers offer a range of options for spectators to view the racing both on their ticketed vessels and venues and from your own boat.
Tickets for the Genesis Island venue and for the spectator boats can be purchased via links on the event website.
The event set up shore-based Team Bases and a Technical Area around the Barangaroo region of the Harbour. Those wanting to see and know more about this concept can book tickets for a Team Base Tour. Akin to the getting into pit lane at an F1GP!
The tours of 30 minutes duration are led by hosts which may give participants the chance to meet a world champion or Olympic medallist. See behind the scenes and learn more about this exciting sailing class.
Vantage Points for Sail GP Sydney
Vantage points to watch the racing from land are accessible in a number of areas. Those interested can refer to the race course maps and other information on the event website and pick their spot on the northern or southern shore of the Harbour.
If planning to spectate from your own vessel, check with Maritime NSW or Water Police re the conditions applicable on race days. An exclusion zone is set-up around the course so the vessels can complete the race without the interference from other craft. Those wanting to observe from the water should check the exclusion zones and plan accordingly.
If you’d like to buy a new craft to get out on the water to watch, we can provide fast approvals on marine financing for all types of watercraft. A RIB or tender-style craft can be ideal for spectating sailing events on the Harbour and other waterways. Our Secured Boat Loan with our competitive rates can offer an affordable way to add a RIB to your current watercraft collection.
Inspired to Get into Boating?
Have these foiled boats inspired you to get into boating or upgrade your current craft? While these foiled boats are not on the market, we can offer affordable funding for other high performance craft such as jet ski financing, and speedboats.
Contact Jade Boat Loans on 1300 000 003 to discuss buying a new boat to watch Sail GP Sydney.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND SPECIFIC DETAILS CONTAINED IN THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND ARE PRESENTED PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR BOAT BUYERS AND LOAN BORROWERS. FOR THOSE THAT CONSIDER THEY REQUIRE SPECIFIC ADVICE, THEY SHOULD CONSULT WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED IN REGARD TO ERRORS AND MISPRESENTED DATA AND DETAILS HEREIN.
