Alice Springs, NT · Winter
Henley-on-Todd Regatta
Third Saturday of August
The Henley-on-Todd Regatta is the world's only dry-river boat race, run on the sandy bed of the Todd River in Alice Springs every third Saturday of August since 1962. Crews race bottomless boats Flintstones-style, sand is shovelled into "sea battles" between land yachts, and the whole absurd program raises money for local charities.
Around 5,000 people line the riverbanks for an event that could only exist in Central Australia; it remains the only regatta ever cancelled because the river had water in it. August days in Alice are sunny and mild, and the event anchors a classic Red Centre itinerary.
- Community Event
- Regional Tourism
- Family Festival
- When
- Third Saturday of August
- How often
- Every year
- Venue
- Todd River (dry riverbed)
- Crowd
- Approx. 4,000-5,000
- Entry
- Paid
- Setting
- Outdoor
Dates shown follow the event's typical pattern; exact dates change each year, so confirm on the official site before booking travel.
Getting there by bus
Tell us where you're starting from and we'll find coach options to Alice Springs. We’ve prefilled the usual event date; adjust it to suit your plans.
Fares and timetables are confirmed on the operator's site before you book.
