Skandia Geelong Week

January 2009

Skandia Geelong Week is a five day annual event, which commences in Melbourne before the yachts set sail for the Australia Day long weekend in Corio Bay during the historic Williamstown to Geelong passage race.  

The program of activities includes live entertainment, roving performers, food and wine, art & craft markets, K-Rock Starshow and lots more along the Geelong Waterfront. Skandia Geelong Week has established itself as Australia's largest keel boat regatta.

First held in 1844, it’s also the oldest sporting event in Victoria. The annual Regatta is part of Victoria's maritime history and now attracts competitors and visitors from all over Australia and beyond. The event attracts in excess of 400 yachts and over 4,500 competitors, with thousands of spectators coming along to enjoy the free activities on offer.Skandia Geelong Week is a ‘must do’ event and place to be in January!

The event is open to everyone from amateur sailors to Olympic and World Champions. The five-day racing program encompasses people from all walks of life, of all ages and abilities and with a range of boats as diverse as the crews participating.

Skandia Geelong Week is the 'Melbourne Cup' of the sailing world. An estimated 100,000 visitors will head for the waterfront during the 2009 Australia Day weekend.

Australia Day week is a time to celebrate and Waterfront Geelong is the place to be. Huge crowds head for the foreshore as soon as the first yacht appears on the horizon and from that point on it is celebration time - celebration of the nation’s anniversary, celebration of the totally rejuvenated waterfront precinct and a celebration to welcome to all visiting sailors.

In a joint venture agreement between Royal Geelong Yacht Club and the City of Greater Geelong the events formerly known as the Geelong Waterfront Festival and Festival of Sail are now united under the umbrella of Skandia Geelong Week. The three-day shore side program is a free access community based event, which offers a diverse range of colorful entertainment for the entire family.