In just over a month’s time, a fleet of enthusiastic cruisers and racers will line up for the start of the 2023 edition of the Auckland Fiji Race, hosted by Royal Akarana Yacht Club. There are two starts catering for a variety of boats with the first happening at 1300 hours on Thursday 1 June for cruisers and Division 2 race yachts, followed by Division 1 starting at 1300 hours on Saturday 3rd June.
Long-haul international offshore racing has been on the back burner for the last few years which saw the unfortunate cancellation of the planned 2020 event due to travel restrictions, however, all that is in the past, and the Auckland Fiji Yacht Race is back on the menu.
It’s been a slow burn to get to this point, however, the organising committee is roaring ahead with plans for the race to start at the scheduled times, with sponsors now secured in what is set to be a fantastic race for those keen to take part.
“Xceda Finance is proud to sponsor The Royal Akarana Yacht Club’s Auckland Fiji Yacht Race as it represents a proud history of bluewater sailing, where kiwi sailors are tested to their extreme limits and abilities and at times exceed their expectations,” said CEO Daniel McGrath.
“Like the determination of the sailors in the Auckland Fiji Yacht Race, Xceda also has a proud history of dedication to our mission for over 30 years, offering tailored financial solutions to New Zealanders, helping kiwis to exceed their expectations,” continued McGrath.
Covering a distance of approximately 1,100 nautical miles, the Auckland Fiji Yacht Race is one of the most challenging and exhilarating races in the region. It will start from Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and finish at the entrance of Momi Bay before the fleet then make their way to Port Denarau Marina, providing competitors with breath-taking scenery and demanding navigational challenges.
“We are thrilled to host the Auckland Fiji Yacht Race and welcome sailors and yacht owners to get involved,” said Jason Morgan, Commodore of the Royal Akarana Yacht Club. “Our club has a long history of hosting successful international sailing events, and we are excited that the Auckland Fiji Yacht Race is back on the calendar.”
“The 2023 Auckland Fiji Yacht Race is an incredible opportunity for sailors to experience the beauty of New Zealand’s waters and the challenges of racing in one of the most demanding events in the region,” added Morgan. “We look forward to working with the Port Denarau Marina to make this a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.”
In addition to Xceda Finance, Burnard International are back on board alongside Neptune Pacific Line as the container supplier and shipping partner – ensuring that the fleet has their cruising gear ready for when they arrive in Fiji. Long-time RAYC partner Harken are generously providing prizes for those lucky enough to make the podium.
Each boat will be fitted with a YB Tracker for the duration of the race to ensure that fellow competitors and on-shore spectators can follow the fleet in real-time.
Entries close on the 5th of May.
2023 Auckland Fiji Race
Cruising & Division 2 – Thursday 1 June at 1300 hours
Division 2 – Saturday 3 June at 1300 hours
