The countdown is on for the 2025 South Australian Wooden Boat Festival, which returns to the historic Goolwa Wharf over the weekend of 26 and 27 April next year.

This biennial event celebrates South Australia's rich maritime heritage, with boatenthusiasts, locals, and visitors enjoying a spectacular display of wooden boats, live music, local food and wine, family entertainment, and cultural experiences.

At the helm, 2025 festival Chairman Mark Harvey is steering the new SA Wooden Boat Festival Committee. 

Working closely with the Alexandrina Council, the committee has launched the Festival website, which has all event updates, including boat registrations, event programs and merchandise.

South Australian Tourism Commission is a  major partner of the festival and has awarded funding through its Regional Event Fund for the 2025 and 2027 festivals.

“The SATC funding helps us celebrate not only our maritime history but also the transformation of Goolwa's Wharf Precinct, which has undergone significant restoration to the heritage-listed Goolwa Wharf and Wharf Shed and upgrades to the Signal Point Experience Centre and surrounding area,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.

“It ensures the sustainability of an event that has become a cornerstone of our community and draws attention to Goolwa's unique maritime heritage.”

The 2023 festival drew 12,000 visitors and generated an estimated $2.8 million in economic benefits for the region, earning the event a finalist position in the 2023 National Economic Development Awards.

Boat enthusiasts are encouraged to register early, with boat registrations now open. 

The 2025 festival is expected to feature more than 100 wooden boats, new and old; under sail, steam, motor, or paddle, providing visitors with the rare opportunity to explore these beautiful vessels and engage with their owners.

A festival highlight will be the heritage paddle steamers, including the PS Oscar W and the PS Marion. These historic vessels will be moored at the wharf, offering scheduled cruises throughout the festival weekend.

For more information, all the latest updates and boat registration, visit the festival website.