Seventh Annual Noosa Gaff Rig Regatta Preview
by Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club 25 Mar 15:08 PDT
6-7 June 2026
NYRC Gaff Rig Regatta © Jane McMenamin
The Seventh Annual Noosa Gaff Rig Regatta will take place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June 2026, on the beautiful Noosa River at the Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club. In some states, the event coincides with the King's Birthday long weekend, making it the perfect time for a sailing getaway.
This much-loved regatta is held each year to raise vital funds for the Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club's Sailability Program. Sailability provides people with disability the opportunity to experience the joy of sailing in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment, encouraging participation and inclusion in the sport across Australia.
As in previous years, the regatta is open to gaff-rigged yachts only. For the purposes of this event, a gaff rig is defined as:
A sailing rig in which the mainsail is four-cornered, fore-and-aft rigged, and controlled at the peak — and usually along the head — by a spar known as a gaff.
Yachts with four-cornered mainsails, including Gaff, Lug, Gunter, or similar rigs, are eligible to enter. Vessels may be constructed from traditional or modern materials.
Each year, competitors travel from across Australia's eastern states to take part in this relaxed, fun-filled fundraising event and to compete for the highly sought-after NYRC Gaff Rig Trophies.
For the 2026 Regatta, we anticipate 25-30 traditional gaff-rigged yachts of all shapes and sizes sailing the Noosa River — a truly spectacular sight for both participants and spectators.
No previous regatta racing experience is required. The Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club will provide full sailing instructions, briefings, and crew assistance if needed. The Club can also assist with launching, mooring, accommodation, and any other requirements to make your visit seamless.
Entry is just $60, with registrations available by contacting the NYRC Reception on (07) 5449 8602 during business hours, or via the website, nyrc.com.au/sailing/noosa-gaff-rig-regatta
The Regatta would not be possible without the generous support of our major sponsors Ronstan and Bundaberg Rum, along with our valued sponsors who contribute prizes for competitors and fundraising raffles.
By June 2026, the NYRC Clubhouse will have undergone a major refurbishment, so be sure to join us for our traditional Saturday night Gaff Rig Regatta dinner and entertainment — full details to follow.
The Noosa River and Noosa Everglades are among Australia's most unique and beautiful sheltered cruising destinations. We encourage entrants to extend their stay and explore this remarkable region. NYRC can assist with local adventures, or visit Tourism Noosa at www.visitnoosa.com.au