The Pittwater Sail Expo opens today at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) in Newport, running from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October. Supported by Pantaenius, the event is recognised as Australia's largest sailing boat show, celebrating the energy, craftsmanship, and community spirit that define the sport.
The RPAYC is one of Australia's oldest and most respected yacht clubs. Its story begins in 1856, when it was founded as the Mosquito Yacht Club, then renamed the Prince Alfred Yacht Club in 1867 ahead of a visit by Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh. King George V granted the club its Royal charter in 1911, and by 1969 it had moved its base from Sydney Harbour to the scenic waters of Pittwater. The Green Point clubhouse remains the heart of sailing life on Sydney's northern beaches to this day.
That proud tradition forms the backdrop for the 2025 Pittwater Sail Expo, which brings together leading Australian and international marine brands. Exhibitors include Carbon Yachts, Leopard Catamarans, Elvstrøm Sails, Harken, Ronstan, X-Yachts, Performance Boating, TMG Lagoon, and Windcraft Yachts. More than 35 yachts are on display, spanning the full range from performance monohulls to luxury bluewater cruisers and catamarans. Visitors can compare models including the Catalina 426 and the Italia 12.98, and one dock brings together three Grand Soleil yachts in a single line-up: the GS34, the GS40, and the GS46LC.
The expo's origins go back to 2012, when it ran under the Club Marine banner and quickly became a sell-out success. Over the years it has provided the stage for notable Australian premieres, including the Lagoon 52 catamaran and the award-winning Sun Odyssey 440. Today it draws thousands of visitors annually and continues to serve as a launch platform for new models, products, and ideas across the marine industry.
The onshore precinct adds another dimension to the experience, with sailmakers, riggers, electronics specialists, and marine service providers on hand to offer demonstrations and practical advice. For those planning a 2026 delivery or a summer refit, the timing is ideal, and anyone simply wanting to explore the boats and innovations shaping the future of Australian sailing will find plenty to keep them busy.
