SailGP Returns to Fremantle in 2027 - What It Means for Port Operations

Image credit to Fremantle Ports

The countdown is on for the return of SailGP to Fremantle on 20–21 February 2027, with Fremantle Ports confirming initial planning arrangements for the internationally recognised sailing event.

While SailGP is expected to once again showcase Fremantle to a global audience, the event will also bring some temporary operational changes for businesses moving cargo through the Port of Fremantle.

Changes to port operations

Fremantle Ports has advised that the harbour will remain open throughout the event period, however commercial shipping operations within the Inner Harbour will be subject to temporary restrictions during race rehearsal and race days.

Exact times are yet to be confirmed, but outside these operational windows, normal shipping movements are expected to continue.

Importantly, racing activities will remain outside operational port waters, with Fremantle Ports working closely with customers and port stakeholders to minimise disruption.

Temporary changes to port facilities

Several areas within the port will be temporarily repurposed to support the event.

The E Berth laydown area on Victoria Quay will become the SailGP technical site during event setup and pack-down, meaning it will not be available for cargo storage during this period.

South Mole will again be used for the SailGP Waterfront Grandstand, while temporary moorings will be installed along Victoria Quay to support race operations.

As a result, the berth face between C and F Berths will not be accessible during the event, with exclusion zones established around the temporary moorings. Additional temporary moorings will also be installed near the J Berth Tug Jetty.

Fremantle Ports has advised that these moorings may be removed if necessary to safely accommodate large commercial vessels entering or departing the harbour.

Maintenance works to coincide with the event

Fremantle Ports has also confirmed it will undertake planned maintenance works at H Berth while SailGP infrastructure is already in place.

This approach mirrors the successful strategy used during the 2026 event, allowing essential maintenance to be completed during an existing operational disruption rather than requiring a separate closure at a later date.

What does this mean for cargo owners?

Although Fremantle Ports is taking steps to minimise disruption, businesses moving cargo through Fremantle during February 2027 should be aware that some delays or operational adjustments may occur around race days.

As more detailed schedules become available, shipping lines, transport providers and logistics companies will be able to better plan vessel arrivals, container movements and landside operations.

For importers and exporters, early planning and close communication with logistics providers will help minimise any potential impacts.

At End to End Logistics, we'll continue monitoring updates from Fremantle Ports and provide further information as planning progresses, helping our customers stay informed and keep their supply chains moving smoothly.