Auckland is about to become the centre of the sailing universe as the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland returns, bringing its fleet of futuristic F50 catamarans, world-class athletes, and stadium-style racing to the Waitematā. Whether you’re a die-hard sailing fan or just keen on an epic waterfront weekend, SailGP Auckland is shaping up to be one of the must-see events of the summer. Read on for your complete guide to SailGP Auckland, from the teams and tech to tickets, activations, and how to get there.
What is SailGP (and why is everyone talking about it)?
SailGP is often described as Formula 1 on water, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. The championship features national teams racing high-performance F50 foiling catamarans at breathtaking speeds just metres from shore.
These aren’t your average sailboats. These catamarans are capable of reaching speeds of up to 100km/h, powered purely by wind. Once they lift onto their foils, the boats literally fly above the water, reducing drag and delivering unreal acceleration.
Each team will race an identical boat, meaning pure skill will decide the winner. And for the crowds watching, the advanced foiling technology and tight, short-format races guarantee jaw-dropping visuals and non-stop action. Seeing these machines scream past the shoreline, just metres away, is something you genuinely have to experience in person.
The teams battling it out in Auckland
This Auckland stop is the second event of the 2025 season, following a dramatic season opener in Perth earlier this month. Emirates Great Britain came out firing, taking the win and setting the tone for what’s already shaping up to be a fiercely competitive championship. Now, all eyes turn to Team New Zealand, who are racing against the clock to get back on the water after their crash in Perth. Expect intensity, redemption arcs, and a home crowd ready to lift the Kiwis when it matters most.
SailGP brings together the best sailors on the planet, so you’ll also spot Australia, USA, France, Denmark, Spain, Switzerland, Canada, Germany, Italy, Brazil, and more on the water. Expect race stadium announcers to cover all the action with live updates and big screens. Plus, heart-stopping F50 fly-bys from the teams will make the whole harbour feel electric.
Inside the Wynyard Point Race Stadium experience
SailGP isn’t just about the racing, it’s a full-scale waterfront festival. Local Auckland artists will provide the soundtrack across the weekend, with a mix of vocalists and DJs keeping the vibes high between races (line-up announcements are coming soon, so watch this space). A live graffiti artist will be creating a custom artwork across the weekend, inspired by SailGP’s speed, competition, and Auckland setting. You can watch the piece evolve in real time, with the final artwork revealed at the end of racing on Sunday.
Ever wondered what it’s like to be onboard an F50 at full speed? Ticket holders can jump into VR simulations inside the stadium and experience SailGP from the crew’s perspective. Not for the faint-hearted!
You’ll also find a wide range of food and beverage vendors throughout the stadium, so you can eat your way through the day. There’s even a Heineken activation, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere with a cold one while the boats fly past.
Don’t forget to stock up on merch, too. From the official SailGP Icon range to SailGP x Doyle Sails accessories and SailGP x SailRacing classic gear, this is your chance to pick up limited merch you won’t find everywhere.
SailGP Auckland isn’t just another sporting event on the calendar, it’s a rare chance to see elite competition unfold right on our doorstep. The racing is fast, physical, and close enough to feel every shift in momentum, while the technology on display shows just how far sailing has evolved. Add in the fact that it all plays out on the Waitematā, with the city as the backdrop, and it becomes something uniquely Auckland.
There’s a ticket option for every kind of SailGP fan:
- Waterfront Grandstand: access to the Race Stadium, live racing views, activations, music, and food.
- Waterfront Premium Grandstand: elevated vantage points for unbeatable sightlines, plus a food and drinks package and exclusive access to the Heineken Bar.
- Family-friendly options: 2 adult tickets and 2 child tickets come with a 20% discount, perfect for bringing the kids along.
So whether you’re invested in Team New Zealand’s comeback on home waters, curious to see how these boats actually fly across the harbour, or simply looking for a waterfront day out that offers more than just spectating, SailGP delivers on all fronts. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable day out.