Rottnest Island set for the annual Festival of Sail

by Susan Ghent on 20 Feb 2015 Picturesque Rottnest Island in Western Australia is the ideal backdrop for a weekend of yachting and social activities.

Now in its fifth year, the two day Rottnest Festival of Sail will be held over the weekend of 28 and 29 March. Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club now invites entries for this annual event.

'We are lucky to be able to enjoy all Rottnest has to offer, especially the pristine waters, for a weekend of great sailing. Rottnest Festival of Sail allows competing yachts to contribute to the conservation projects on Rottnest through the Rottnest Foundation' said Mr Gordon Blaauw, Chairman of the Organising Committee. 'We expect between 50 – 60 yachts to be anchored in Thompson Bay on Saturday night which will provide quite a spectacular view for visitors to the Island on March 28th'.

Organised by both Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club and the Rottnest Foundation, the Club manages the sailing programme and has lined up a great format of racing. Yachts will compete in a mix of events including windward-leeward, offshore race, transit race and a Round the Island Cruise in Company.

Moorings are provided for all yachts entered and a ferry service will run the sailors ashore for social activities. Saturday night hosts the much anticipated party at Aristos and there are plenty of great prizes up for grabs thanks to the sponsors.

For the first time this year, a photo competition will be held with entrants judged on capturing the 'Essence of Rottnest Festival of Sail'.

The Rottnest Festival of Sail promises to be a fantastic weekend on and off the water. Whether you are a sailor wanting to compete in the clear waters and fabulous winds, or just keen to enjoy all the island has to offer, start planning your trip now.

Visit the RFBYC website, rfbyc.asn.au for full details.