2026 Marlay Point Overnight Race at Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club - Preview

Triple Expresso - 2025 Marlay Point Overnight Race © Andrew McColl

The countdown is on for one of Australia's most unique and demanding sailing challenges.

The Marlay Point Overnight Race is set to light up the waters of the Gippsland Lakes once again in 2026.

Each year on the June long weekend, sailors gather at Marlay Point on Lake Wellington preparing to navigate through the night toward Paynesville in a spectacular test of seamanship, endurance and teamwork. With entries building strongly and fleets already taking shape the 2026 edition promises another unforgettable chapter in this iconic offshore-style inland race.

A night like no other

The Marlay Point Overnight Race is Australia's premier overnight inland sailing event and one of the few races in the country that starts at dusk and aims to finish at dawn. Competitors sail approximately 52 nautical miles through the lakes system negotiating shifting winds, cold fronts, narrow channels and total darkness.

It's tactical. It's physical. And it's absolutely magical. The sight of masthead lights stretching across Lake Wellington at sunset is something every sailor should experience at least once.

Celebrating Women on the Water

One of the most exciting storylines for 2026 is the strength of the All-Female Crew category with four boats already entered. What a fantastic show of commitment and skill. These crews represent the growing depth of women's participation in endurance sailing. The overnight format demands strong navigation, clear communication and resilience. Their presence is not just inspiring; it's competitive. Expect these boats to be pushing hard for divisional honours and making their mark across the broader fleet.

Multihulls bring speed and spectacle

Also shaping up impressively is the multihull fleet with eight entries confirmed so far. Multihulls add a dynamic element to the race. Fast, responsive and exhilarating to sail they often face a strategic balancing act pressing for speed while managing changing night conditions and lake geography. When the breeze fills in across Lake Victoria expect the multihulls to provide some of the most exciting tracking on the course.

A race for every sailor

From trailer sailers and sports boats to cruising yachts and performance multihulls, the Marlay Point Overnight Race has long been known for its inclusivity. New crews sail alongside seasoned campaigners. Some come to chase line honours; others come to test themselves against the elements. But every crew shares the same unforgettable experience - rigging at Marlay Point as the temperature drops, the quiet tension before the twilight starts, navigating McLennan Strait in darkness then watching the sun rise as Paynesville draws near It's endurance sailing at its purest.

Still time to enter

With strong early numbers momentum is building fast for 2026. If you've been considering entering now is the time. Whether you're chasing trophies or simply the adventure of sailing through the night the Marlay Point Overnight Race offers something truly special.

The Gippsland Lakes will be calling this June long weekend. Will you be on the start line?