2026 Pacific Airshow Gold Coast
A sky-high reminder for all skippers, riders and watercrafters to plan ahead for Gold Coast’s Pacific Airshow 14-16 August 2026.
If you’re heading offshore to view this year’s Pacific Airshow — make sure you plan ahead and be prepared for local congestion.
With the three-day action-packed aerial display drawing large numbers of vessels offshore from Surfers Paradise from Friday — you won’t be alone on the water.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Expect congestion and delays—Be patient and allow extra time as local boat ramps and surrounding waterways, including the Gold Coast Seaway, will be extremely busy before and after the event. We anticipate anywhere between 800 to 1,000 boats offshore.
- Take extra care—With extra vessels and smaller craft about, all skippers are advised to watch your speed, watch your wash, and keep a proper lookout at all times.
- Come prepared—Make sure you’re carrying all the required safety equipment for your vessel and that you have the correct lifejackets – with a correctly-fitted lifejacket allocated to everyone onboard.
- There’s a bar—That’s right, the Gold Coast Seaway is a designated coastal bar. Please practice extreme caution when crossing and remember, in Queensland it’s compulsory to wear a lifejacket while crossing a coastal bar on an open boat, or in an open area of a boat - of any length.
- Exclusion zone—An offshore Marine exclusion zone will be in place for public safety from Thursday 13 February until the end of the event on Sunday 16 August. Clearly marked by buoys, all vessels can safely view the event outside of the exclusion zone.
- Follow directions—Queensland Water Police are leading the on-water safety and compliance operations for the event, with support from Maritime Safety Queensland officers. Please follow all directions from officers before, during and after the event.
For further exclusion zone details coordinates and map, refer to Notice to Mariners 421(T) of 2026.
You can find further safety information on our website for:
Remember
Lifejacket – if it’s not on, it can’t save you.