Now in its second year, the Season of Sailing aims to attract visitors to sailing events in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Central Queensland, the Whitsundays and Townsville being held from April 22 to September 6.
Visitors can enjoy and be part of a world famous race week, learn to sail and embark on a bareboat adventure or if DIY sailing doesn't appeal, a range of crewed charters are available. Choose from a wide range of boating experiences – from catamarans to racing yachts – and explore Queensland's many spectacular waterways. Stay in a resort with views of the Coral Sea or visit The Great Barrier Reef.
The Season of Sailing website, www.queenslandholidays.com.au/sailing makes it easy to experience a Queensland sailing experience and book a range of stay and sail holiday packages with your friends and family from now until September, with travel extending until December 15, 2011.
The Sunsail Australia package allows you to take to the water on a bareboat charter from $99 per person or Descarada Luxury Charters offer an all-inclusive luxury two night cruise through the Whitsunday Islands – a great way to relax and unwind after the Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island Race Weeks.
There is also a package available for people to explore the Townsville region with a seven night Peppers Island Escape, including accommodation at the Peppers Blue on Blue Magnetic Island and daily breakfast.
From just $85 per night, you can stay at the Island Gateway Holiday Park at beautiful Airlie Beach (kids stay free) or enjoy one of Queensland's newest resorts, the Boathouse Apartments by Outrigger, also at Airlie Beach, which is offering two bedroom apartments from $260 per night quad-share.
Young Australian of the Year and proud Queenslander, Jessica Watson has come onboard once again as the Queensland's Season of Sailing ambassador when she launched the 2011 Season at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, Brisbane last Saturday, April 2.
Jessica says she is happy to encourage more people to take up the sport of sailing. ""The Season of Sailing offers everyone, from all age groups, an opportunity to get out there and give it a go."
There are so many ways to get out on Queensland's clear blue waters; opportunities for every level of skill and experience, at any time of the year.
Individual race events for 2011 Queensland's Season of Sailing include:
Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race – April 22–24
Etchells Australasian Winter Championships (Sunshine Coast) – June 9–12
Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race - August 5-8
Airlie Beach Race Week - August 12-18
Hamilton Island Race Week - August 19-27
Magnetic Island Race Week - September 1-6.
For more information on Queensland's Season of Sailing and to book packages visit www.queenslandholidays.com.au/sailing.
