Saturday 19th September 2026
The Race
The Darwin to Saumlaki Race/Rally is scheduled to commence on 19th September 2026. The event will begin with a shotgun start in Fannie Bay at 10am, where invited guests will witness the start from the designated start boat. Saumlaki is located approximately 290 nautical miles north of Darwin, and the journey is expected to take between 32 and 54 hours of sailing, depending on factors such as weather conditions, vessel type, and crew experience.
Course and Finish Line Details
The race will conclude at Saumlaki Harbor and the finish line will be described in the Sailing Instructions issued closer to the event. Skippers are advised to ensure their vessels have sufficient anchor chain suitable for depths of around 20 metres, as the seabed is mud and prevailing winds are generally south-easterly and offshore. The designated anchoring area is adjacent to a roll-on roll-off wharf and is situated some distance from the shore. During low tide, access to the shore may be restricted due to the exposure of tidal flats.
Accommodation and Facilities
Participants can find accommodation and dining options at the Harapan Indah Hotel, where dinghies may be tied up at the back steps of the hotel. Other accommodation and eateries are available within the town.
Entry and Tracking
Entries for the race must be submitted no later than 19th August 2026. The registration form is available at https://forms.gle/yjRJxq5gZpnbhk9k8. Each participating vessel will be equipped with a Yellow Brick tracker which allows real-time progress updates to be displayed at the clubhouse.
Post-Race Activities
After the race, activities and presentations will take place in Saumlaki. Participants may choose to return to Darwin or continue travelling through Indonesia at their own discretion.
About Saumlaki
Saumlaki is the largest town in the Tanimbar Islands, with a population of approximately 15,000 people. It is situated due north of Darwin, on the southern end of Pulau (Island) Yamdena, and features a natural harbour.
The Tanimbar Islands, also known as Timur Laut, comprise about 65 islands within Indonesia's Maluku Province. Notable islands include Fordata, Larat, Maru, Molu, Nuswotar, Selaru, Selu, Seira, Wotap, Wuliaru, and Yamdena.
The region is renowned for its distinctive culture, including the production of traditional crafts such as ikat cloth and carved wooden statues. The islands are also home to unique forms of music and dance. In addition to their cultural appeal, the Tanimbar Islands are known for their endemic wildlife
– including eight bird species found only in the archipelago – as well as pristine beaches and excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving. Most attractions are located on Yamdena, the main and most accessible island. Larat, in the north, is another accessible island with some facilities. Visitors will find the local people friendly and inquisitive, especially children. Key industries in the region include carving, weaving, fishing, and farming. In Saumlaki, the population is about 95% Christian and 5% Muslim.
Facilities and Services
Saumlaki offers a range of provisioning options, including supermarkets, open markets, general stores, as well as fuel and water facilities. Fuel is to be transported in jerry cans, while drinking water is available in 15-litre bottles (which must be returned to the point of supply). ATM and credit card facilities are present, though internet connectivity can be unreliable. It is recommended to obtain Indonesian Rupiah before leaving Darwin, as email communication can also be difficult at times.
Support and Arrival Procedures
The Darwin to Saumlaki Race and Rally is supported by local and regional Indonesian governments. The Ministry of Tourism will organise a tour of key areas for participants. Arrangements have been made to provide Quarantine, Customs, and Immigration clearances upon arrival in and departure from Saumlaki.
Permits and Visas
A permit for each yacht to sail in Indonesian waters must be obtained before leaving Darwin. Applications are available online at http://vds.beacukai.go.id. As the process can be slow, it is advisable to apply several weeks in advance to avoid delays. Further advice will be available closer to the event.
30 day visas may be obtained online for $50 at evisa.imigrasi.go.id
Departure clearances from Darwin are being coordinated with Border Force. All crew members must be present as a group with current passports that have at least six months’ validity remaining upon arrival in Indonesia. All vessels leaving Australian waters must have national registration, either on the Australian General Shipping Register or that of another country.
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