The Holiday and Travel Magazine

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Monday, 28 April 2025

Port Stephens: Charting a Course to Global Sailing Fame

A New Era for Port Stephens as a Sailing Destination

Port Stephens, a stunning coastal haven in New South Wales, is preparing to take center stage as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations. With the recent announcement that Newcastle Airport will unveil its upgraded international terminal in August 2025, the region is poised to welcome more international visitors, sailors, and spectators. The Minns Labor Government’s vision for the area’s tourism and sailing potential is about to set sail on a new course.

Sail Port Stephens: A Thrilling Regatta Series

Port Stephens has long been celebrated for its pristine waters, perfect for sailing. In 2025, the region’s iconic waters will host Sail Port Stephens, one of Australia’s largest and most prestigious regattas. The event is set to draw thousands of sailing enthusiasts and spectators from around the globe. The Sail Port Stephens Performance Series will kick off from April 25 to 27, 2025, featuring the NSW Yachting Championships, TP52 Gold Cup Act 3, Rob Hampshire Cup, InterClub 40 Challenge, and Super RC Series.

This thrilling regatta will continue with the Sail Port Stephens Bay Series from May 2 to 4, 2025, and conclude with the dinghy divisions on May 3-4, 2025. These competitions promise to showcase some of the finest sailing talent in Australia, offering unparalleled action and excitement on the water.

Port Stephens: A Beloved Destination for Locals and Visitors

Port Stephens’ beauty has long been appreciated by domestic visitors, recently earning the title of Wotif’s 2025 Aussie Town of the Year. Known for its dazzling beaches, impressive sand dunes, abundant sea life, and lush national parks, the region also offers a vibrant dining scene. The region’s combination of natural beauty and excellent facilities has made it an increasingly popular choice for tourists from all over Australia and beyond.

The region’s visitor economy is flourishing, with recent Tourism Research Australia data revealing a 4% increase in domestic overnight visitors in 2024. The region welcomed 836,300 domestic visitors and 25,300 international visitors during the year, injecting millions into the local economy. This trend is expected to accelerate, with the new international terminal at Newcastle Airport enhancing accessibility to this beloved destination.

The Role of Newcastle Airport in Expanding Accessibility

A key part of Port Stephens’ future as a global sailing destination is the upgraded Newcastle Airport, set to open its international terminal in 2025. This major development will improve accessibility to Port Stephens, allowing international travelers, particularly sailing enthusiasts, to visit the region with ease. The new terminal will facilitate the growth of both leisure boating and international regatta participation, further positioning Port Stephens as a global hub for sailing.

Through a partnership with Destination NSW, Newcastle Airport has already secured vital international and domestic routes, ensuring the region’s connectivity to key global markets. With the international terminal’s opening on the horizon, Port Stephens is ready to welcome a new wave of international visitors eager to experience its world-class sailing and natural beauty.

Economic Boost for the Local Community

Sail Port Stephens has become an essential fixture on Australia’s sailing calendar, and its continued success is expected to bring significant benefits to the local economy. In 2025, the event is anticipated to generate over $2 million in visitor expenditure, further boosting local businesses and attracting even more visitors to the area.

Port Stephens' Mayor, Leah Anderson, emphasized the importance of Sail Port Stephens as a driver of economic activity. The event supports hotels, marinas, cafes, and shops in the area, contributing to the region’s thriving tourism sector. As the global spotlight shines on Port Stephens, local businesses are set to thrive, and the area’s international reputation as a sailing destination will continue to grow.

Port Stephens: A Global Sailing Destination in the Making

As the region looks ahead to a new era of international recognition, the future of Port Stephens as a global sailing destination is bright. The natural beauty of its waters, the excitement of Sail Port Stephens, and the enhanced accessibility provided by the Newcastle Airport international terminal make it an ideal location for sailing events of all kinds. With continued support from the NSW Government, Port Stephens is on track to become a world-renowned hub for sailing enthusiasts from around the globe.

For more information about Port Stephens and upcoming events, visit:
www.portstephens.org.au

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