Darwin To Banda Neira Yacht Race

NEXT RACE

Sat 01 August 2026

NOTICE OF RACE and EXPRESSION OF INTEREST / REGISTRATION links coming soon

Follow our Facebook Page for updates

A 600nm international north-bound sailing classic starting in Darwin Australia and finishing in beautiful Banda Neira in Indonesia. This replaces the long tradition of the Spice Islands Darwin to Ambon race. Many skippers would call in to Banda Neira returning from the Ambon race and we are pleased to confirm support from the Maluku Tourism Board and the Ambon Sailing Community for this exciting new destination.

All types of sailors and sailing boats are welcome. The south-east trade winds dominate the weather and can provide wonderful reaching conditions through the tropical waters. The fastest yachts take just over two days whilst the more relaxed sailors can take up to six days.

There are organised activities once arriving in Banda Neira, including the Presentation Night on Sat 08 Aug. 

RACING DIVISIONS

Div 1 - IRC Racing
Div 2 - PHS Monohull
Div 3 - PHS Multihull

Further information will be collected from skippers during Race Registration, for the purpose of determining handicaps etc.

Yachts who wish to participate under Rally conditions may enter DIV 2 or 3 and advise race officials of their intention to motor.

RACE DETAILS

Notice of Race – coming soon

Expression of Interest - coming soon

Race Registration - coming soon

Race Entry Fees – $500 per vessel, $100 per participant (including skipper)

Sailing Instructions – coming soon

Visa Requirements – The Skipper is solely responsible for organising their Indonesian boat registration via the Indonesian Official Vessel Declaration System which must include boat registration, crew passports and yacht docs. Please be patient – online access can be fickle – if you cannot reach the website on a particular occasion please keep trying. See FAQs below for more information.

Preparing for an Audit – Guidelines

Safety Requirements

• Cat 2 for IRC Racing division
• Cat 3 plus Life Raft / Dinghy and Sat Phone for all other divisions

AS Special Regulations for Racing Boats July 2024

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Darwin - Banda Neira 2026 (PDF)

Cruising Tips
Cruising Around the Spice Islands - information sheet (PDF)

What to Expect upon Arrival
A warm Indonesian welcome, opportunity for local sightseeing plus a range of organised events culminating in the Race Presentation Night.

Social Program
Social Program TBC

Participant Behaviour

As representatives of DBCYA and Australia, all race participants are expected to behave in a polite and respectful manner at all times, with respect to the laws, customs and local practices of our hosts, the people of Ambon, Indonesia. As a condition of entry, all participants agree to abide by the club’s policies.
Code of Conduct Policy
Confidentiality Policy

GALLERY - DARWIN TO AMBON

SPICE ISLANDS RACE HISTORY