FROM across the ocean departing Europe and under sail from around the country they will come for Audi Hamilton Island Race Week this year.

Such is the interest in this year's regatta that entries are being lodged at a rate faster than at any other time in the event's 33-year history.

On current projections the final fleet is likely to exceed 200 for the series, which will be staged on the warm tropical waters of the Whitsunday region from August 20 to 27 this year.

Already the cross-section of entries is most impressive.

They range from maxi yachts, sleek and luxurious new cruiser-racers, casual cruisers, trailables, exciting sport boats, and the widest imaginable spectrum of multihulls. Some have entered just for the fun factor while others are out to win their division; then there's the upper echelon of Grand Prix, PHS and multis competing to win their class in the Australian Yachting Championships.

One early entry certain to attract attention is Sydney yachtsman Ervin Vidor's uniquely elegant, 23-metre-long CNB 76 cruiser-racer, Charlotte, which was launched in France last year.

He has travelled 6000 nautical miles with the express intention of being at this year's Audi Hamilton Island Race Week.

"I've competed at Hamilton Island Race Week only once, but I always knew I'd be back when my business commitments would allow it," he said.

"Now, having this new yacht, and the time available to be there, I can't wait to be part of this year's regatta."

Audi Australia returns as the naming right sponsor of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week for an incredible eleventh year.

Throughout the past decade of partnership, Audi and Hamilton Island have worked hand-in-hand to create the most impressive sailing regatta in Australia with even more activities on offer for sailors and onshore guests alike.

This shared vision is based on a joint passion for winning performance, innovation and spirited competition - evident at AHIRW each year.