Port Stephens takes line honours as global sailing destination

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper visited d'Albora Marina Nelson Bay with Kate Washington and Paul O'Rourke, alongside Chair Matthew Borger, Matt Bonser, Leah Anderson, Jarrah Morgan and Magnolia Cafe owner Billy Barton © Destination NSW

The NSW Government is charting the course for Port Stephens to become a global sailing destination when Newcastle Airport's upgraded international terminal opens in August 2025.

The region's pristine waters have once again welcomed thousands of sailors and spectators to Sail Port Stephens 2025, one of Australia's largest regattas, proudly supported by the NSW Government's tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

The closing events for Sail Port Stephens 2025 will be held this weekend, with the Bay Series on 2-4 May and the dinghy divisions from 3-4 May.

Port Stephens is already beloved by domestic visitors and was recently named Wotif's 2025 Aussie Town of the Year for its beaches, sand dunes, sea life, national parks and dining.

Destination NSW has supported Sail Port Stephens over many years, helping the event grow to become a major visitor drawcard for the region.

The latest Tourism Research Australia data shows the Port Stephens visitor economy is booming. The region welcomed 836,300 domestic overnight visitors in the year ending December 2024, up four per cent year on year. Domestic overnight visitor expenditure injected $683 million into the local visitor economy. There were 25,300 international visitors to Port Stephens during the period, who spent $11 million during their trip.

Situated on the doorstep of Port Stephens, the new Newcastle Airport's international terminal will enhance access to the destination for both racing and leisure boating enthusiasts.

Destination NSW has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Newcastle Airport to help the airport secure new international and domestic routes.

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper said: "Sail Port Stephens has built a reputation as one of the premier events on the Australian sailing calendar and is expected to generate more than $2 million in visitor expenditure in 2025 for the region.

"The event plays a key role in promoting Port Stephens as a world-class destination for major national and international regattas, increasing visitation to the area and boosting the local visitor economy.

"The Minns Labor Government is proud to be promoting of one of Australia's most scenic and celebrated sailing waterways to the world."

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said: "Port Stephens offers visitors the whole package - stunning beaches, lush national parks and sparkling waters for sailing enthusiasts.

"The upgraded Newcastle Airport will bring exciting new opportunities to the region and boost participation in events such as Sail Port Stephens, ensuring a bright future for the local businesses who contribute to the growth of our visitor economy.

"We're setting the stage for our region to become a true international sailing destination."

Mayor of Port Stephens Leah Anderson said: "It's always fantastic to see our shores buzzing with excitement as we welcome sailors, enthusiasts and spectators from all over Australia.

"Sail Port Stephens is not only a thrilling sporting spectacle but it's also a significant contributor to our local economy. So many of our local businesses receive extra visitors and the event is of huge benefit to our hotels, marinas, cafes, restaurants and shops."

Sail Port Stephens Co-founder Paul O'Rourke said: "Port Stephens offers an incredible sailing experience with consistent nor'easters, spectacular scenery and the versatility of its sheltered bay and open water racetracks.

"The support for Sail Port Stephens through Destination NSW has been key to the event's growth from its original week-long regatta format to a month-long sailing super event and we look forward to further elevating the region as a global sailing destination."