So you want to sail the Sydney Hobart…

So, you want to do a Sydney Hobart Yacht Race?

For many sailors, the Sydney Hobart is considered the pinnacle of offshore racing. Whether you want to do a bucket list race or it’s recurring affair, the allure of the Sydney Hobart draws sailors from near and far to make the epic journey south.

But, it’s not a race to be taken lightly.

The yachts and crew often cop a beating heading down the NSW East Coast, through the Bass Strait, around Tasman Island and across the aptly named Storm Bay. One of the worst squalls I’ve ever seen was in the Derwent River which is usually known for the frustration it causes due to lack of wind as crews try to get to the finish line. You never know what’s going to come your way.

Before you set off, especially if it’s your first time, you want – and need – to be prepared.

Moreover, you’re very unlikely to get a crewing position if you’re not well prepared and experienced enough to make the voyage, nor should you attempt to join a team that’s lackadaisical about experience and preparedness on their yacht.

Let’s look at some of the things you, as a crew member, can do to get yourself onboard a yacht and make sure you’re prepared for the race.

1. Build up your experience

If you’re looking to head to Hobart, or any significant offshore race, offshore sailing experience is your friend.

To qualify to complete in the Sydney Hobart, at least 50% of the yacht’s crew are required to have completed a Category 1 race or an equivalent passage.

If you are new or relatively new to sailing, don’t set your sights on doing a Sydney Hobart right away. Not only does this pose a potential risk to yourself and others, but you’re very unlikely to find a crew position if you don’t have significant offshore experience.

Start out with shorter offshore races or passages, then work your way up to longer offshore races or overnight passages.

Delivery trips are a great way to gain offshore experience. There are lots of yachts looking for help to get back from Hobart, and this is a great stepping stone to gain experience before doing the race. However, delivery trips aren’t without risks, so make sure you’re adequately prepared for the voyage and there are experienced sailors on-board who are familiar with the yacht.

I cover some tips and steps on how to gain experience and work your way up to doing a Sydney Hobart Yacht Race in the MySail blog .

2. Get some sailing qualifications

In order to enter the Sydney Hobart, at least of 50% of the crew need to hold a valid Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival Certificate or an approved equivalent.

In addition, at least two crew members need to hold a current Senior First Aid Certificate or equivalent qualification, or be a practising medical practitioner, and two crew need to hold a Long-Range Marine Radio Operators Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP) or higher qualification.

Gaining these qualifications give you a competitive edge on the competition when looking for a crew position.

You’ll also gain important skills and knowledge that will be useful on-board.

3. Find a crew position

Your next challenge is to find a crew position.

Most yachts build a committed team early in the season and then sail together in regattas and offshore races leading up to the Sydney Hobart.

It’s a requirement for any yacht entering the Sydney Hobart to complete a qualifying race of not less than 150 nautical miles, or qualifying passage not less than 24 hours, in the six months prior to the event.

Look for a yacht that has the Sydney Hobart in their race program, and try to get on-board early in the season. Most yachts will require their Sydney Hobart crew to commit to all of the lead-up races, especially the offshore ones.

You can look at the CYCA’s Sydney Hobart website for a list of race entrants, or a previous year’s list, to see who is, or is likely to do the race. Also check out the Sydney Hobart race page on MySail and add your profile there so skippers who are looking for crew can find you. Nothing beats meeting with people face-to-face, so head down to the CYCA or your local yacht club and start building and working on your network.

4. Prepare for the race; body, mind and soul

If you are working towards doing a Sydney Hobart, make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared for the race by the time December 26 rolls around.

Physical preparation will help you cope with the fatigue and physical exertion required. Building good physical fitness, strength and stamina will help you keep going over several days, and help you recover after arriving in Hobart.

Get involved in as much of the yacht preparation as you can. Helping with maintenance and boat preparation will help you learn where things are and how things work; a great asset when you need to do something in a hurry, in a big sea, in the dark.

Lastly, with all of the preparation it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take some time to make sure that you’re well rested and in a good frame of mind when the race starts.

5. Get your gear ready

Doing a Sydney Hobart is not supposed to be easy, or comfortable, but there are a few things you can do to stay as warm, comfortable and safe as possible during the race.

There is a lot of good gear on the market to help you stay warm and dry, so do your research and get a good set of wet weather gear. You will need a PFD fitted with a tether and PLB (personal locator beacon) which are required by all crew, and may want to consider getting a personal AIS which provides your location back to the yacht if you go overboard.

You might also want to carry other gear such as a blunt, serrated knife, watch, head torch with red light setting and personal seasickness medication. I wear a (very stylish) bum bag to carry this gear and my PLB, which is easy to grab if you need to go on deck in a hurry.

Make sure you have adequate layers and warm gear; thermals are extremely light and easy to pack, and will keep you warm. You’ll be very glad for these warm layers when a southerly front hits in southern Tasmania.

Don’t forget about your extremities either. I always take a waterproof hat, socks and gloves. If you get water in your boots the socks will keep your feet warm and dry. Especially for the women with long hair, a waterproof hat helps keep salt water out of your hair and your head warm and dry.

Pack your clothing and gear in waterproof or large ziplock bags to keep it organised and dry. This helps when storing gear in small compartments, makes it quick and easy to find gear in a hurry, and will stop dampness from infiltrating everything you own.

No matter how prepared you are, inevitably something will go wrong! But, that’s where all of your preparedness really comes in handy. With the right experience, knowledge and attitude amongst the crew, you’ll be able to tackle tough situations and have a great race.

Safe sailing and I look forward to seeing you on Constitution Dock in 2019!

– Deborah Dalziel https://mysail.team/

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Sydney to Hobart yacht race — how to watch and what to look for

Start of the 2018 Sydney to Hobart race, aerial photo.

From its beginning in 1945, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race remains one of the pinnacles for sailing competitors.

Dismissed by some as "rich people and their toy boats", the race is actually a gruelling test of skill, teamwork and boat design — with the weather thrown into the mix. 

If you know what to look for, the S2H can be an enjoyable experience, so here are some tips as to getting the best out of it.

Yachts sail near land, with smaller boats in the background, as part of the 2019 Sydney to Hobart yacht race

When does it start?

Around 90 boats ranging from 100ft Super Maxis to smaller 30 footers will be ready to go at 1pm AEDT on Sydney Harbour, Boxing Day.

Even though the race fleet will be fewer in numbers due to COVID (more on that later), there will still be a gazillion sails — competitors, officials, media and spectators — running around the water ahead of the firing of the starting cannon.

Ichi Ban crew in Sydney to Hobart

Once the race is on, it's a bolt to The Heads and into the open water of the South Pacific.

The fleet then begins to make its way down the east coast of Australia to Hobart.

How can I watch it?

The Seven Network, through 7Mate, will broadcast the start of the race live around Australia. Their coverage starts at 12:30pm (AEDT).

ABC TV will also be following the fleet down the eastern seaboard and provide all the in-race news footage that is used by the various Australian and International news networks.

For those who can't get to watch the live broadcast of the start of the race on the Seven Network across Australia, Seven West Media will webcast the program.

You can also watch a webcast of the live broadcast on the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race website .

Super maxi Black Jack at sea

If you are in Sydney and on the water, sponsor Rolex advises "if you only plan on watching the start, and don't wish to follow the fleet, then stick to the western side of the harbour".

Good vantage points for spectator boats include "Taylors Bay, Chowder Bay, Obelisk Bay and North Head on the west and Rose Bay, Watsons Bay, Camp Cove and South Head to the east".

Rolex says the harbour will be "very crowded and traffic can be chaotic, so stay alert, follow the advice of race officials and remember to keep well clear of the exclusion zone between 12pm and 2pm".

Rolex also notes the "Clearview glass boat is the only public spectator vessel permitted within the Sydney Harbour exclusion zone".

InfoTrack in Sydney Harbour on day one of the Sydney To Hobart 2018 race.

How can I follow the boats online?

The race sponsor Rolex has a tracker on their website , which plots the course of yachts as they move south.

The position of yachts is transmitted by a GPS device on each vessel. You can follow your favourite boats easily by clicking on the heart symbol.

Sydney to Hobart yacht race tracker.

As the race goes on, you can see the course charted by crews and marvel at how each team plots and schemes their way to the finish.

Unless of course the boat's GPS device gets switched off, rendering it invisible to spectators and other competitors — an accusation which was levelled at Wild Oats XI in 2018 by the owner of Black Jack.

Skulduggery on the high seas! We told you it could be fun.

The Wild Oats XI crew speak to the media after their line honours win.

What should I look out for?

Apart from GPS shenanigans, the wild card is always the weather.

All jokes aside, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race is taken seriously for good reason — people have died when the seas get rough.

The 1998 race has gone down in history as a maritime disaster that cost lives and changed marine forecasting practice .

Six sailors died, five yachts sank, more than 60 yachts retired and 55 participants had to be rescued by helicopter.

In 2015, a squall hit the fleet off the News South Wales coast, ending the race for 29 competitors.

Black Jack leads the field near the start of the Sydney to Hobart

Even in calm conditions, boats under stress break stuff and crews retire for a host of reasons.

In 2016, a slew of boats had to call it quits due to shredded sails and steering problems.

Then there are the underdog v supermaxi battles which pit the hopefuls against the cashed-up crews.

As race sponsor Rolex says, the race is made up from "weekend club sailors to professionals from the America's Cup and Volvo Ocean Race circuits".

Lots to watch out for!

On board Italian yacht Maserati during Sydney-Hobart race

When does the race finish?

With the very fast boats (Wild Oats XI, Comanche) not in this year's race, the lines honours winner is likely to come in around 48 hours after the start — noonish or thereabouts on Tuesday, December 28, but who knows what part the weather might play.

It is also important to note there are two prizes at stake in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race .

The finish line proper is 12 nautical miles (22.2 kilometres) up the Derwent River off Battery Point, where a cannon signals the first across the line.

The reigning line honours victor is Comanche. It won in a time of 1 day, 18 hours and 30 minutes in 2019.

The first yacht across the line wins the JH Illingworth Trophy, but the overall winner on handicap wins the Tattersalls Cup.

The overall victory is considered the major prize for sailors and a testament to skill and tactics.

Most of the time, handicap honours are won by a smaller, slower boat, which outdoes its larger opposition when time is adjusted for size and other factors.

The reigning overall winner is Ichi Ban. It finished in 3 days, 4 hours and 11 minutes in 2019.

As a result of the pandemic, the 2021 fleet will be smaller than previous years due to a lack of international entrants, and other flow-on effects.

Good luck to all racers!

Skipper Matt Allen and a crew member hold up the winner's trophy onboard the winning yacht Ichi Ban

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how much does a sydney to hobart yacht cost

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Entries Open

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is pleased to welcome entries for eligible yachts for the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. The 78th edition of the historic 628 nautical mile classic will start on Sydney Harbour at 1pm on Tuesday 26 December 2023. An international and highly competitive fleet is expected to participate this year following the success of what has been described as a ‘Classic Hobart’ in 2022 which saw 109 entrants on the starting line – the first race not heavily impacted by border restrictions since the 75th Anniversary race in 2019. A tightly contested upwind start on Sydney Harbour was followed by a fast run down the NSW coastline before the main fleet experienced challenging conditions and strong breeze as they approached Hobart. Sam Haynes’ TP52 Celestial was the Overall Winner of the 2022 Rolex Sydney Hobart. John Winning Jr’s 100ft maxi Andoo Comanche took Line Honours in a time of 1 day, 11 hours, 56 minutes. Both are expected to defend their titles in 2023. Eight international boats from across the globe competed in 2022, including  Caro,  (winner of the 2022 Australian Championships and Division 1 at Les Voiles de St Barthes),  Warrior Won,  (Winner 2022 RORC Caribbean 600), and Sunrise,  (Winner of the 2022 Rolex Fastnet Race and 2nd in the Rolex Middle Sea Race). Nineteen boats competed as two-handed entries with Ruper Henry’s Lombard 34 Mistral taking IRC honours.   Arthur Lane, Commodore of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, said: “We expect a strong fleet to contest the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart with the prospect of our many local racing teams from all states of Australia being joined by a world-class group of international entrants. There has already been early interest shown by overseas teams. “The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia once again extends its warm appreciation to Rolex for its ongoing support of the Race and sailing globally as well as to our many valued race partners including our good friends at the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania as Race Finishing Partner.” Entries for the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart close at 1700hrs on Friday 27 October 2023. NOTICE OF RACE RACE ENTRY

how much does a sydney to hobart yacht cost

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Sydney Hobart Race 2021

  • AUD $9,500.00 / Race per person Enquire now

how much does a sydney to hobart yacht cost

Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2021

INFO ALERT/UPDATE - [We are still operating throughout the Covid19 pandemic 2021, check out our terms and conditions for cancellation policy]

Eve is offering places for one of the toughest and most respected ocean races in the world. This will be the 77th edition of Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race , with a fleet in excess of 150 yachts expected. The Sydney to Hobart yacht race involves very serious sailing in frequently heavy weather and so requires a safe yacht and competent crew. ‘Eve’ is an extraordinarily strong and safe yacht. Like all S&S Swan 65s, she was built to the highest standards for around-the-world racing and has already completed three circumnavigations. There is no stronger or safer boat in the Hobart fleet.

Whether you’re looking to learn new racing skills or to tick off an item from your bucket list, competing in this 628-nautical-mile race will certainly challenge your endurance, boat handling and seamanship. An unforgettable experience for any sailor that has done the race. The buzz of helicopters and global media at the start, the 600 mile passage down the coast through all weather conditions, the rounding of Tasman island and the last leg to the historic city of Hobart.

The training program:

The key to success in an event like this is preparation and teamwork, our 14-day program is designed to build a crew’s confidence as well as knowledge and experience to promote safe and successful experience. This 14-day course will be spread over 4 months so training sessions can be mostly done during the week-end.

The program will include basic skills & safety, offshore passage making, and race training:

Learn to work in a watch system and race with broken sleep as you sail through the night. Everything will be about sail trim and making the boat go faster. Emphasis will also be placed on emergency routines, safety procedures and handling the yacht in tough offshore conditions to make sure the crew are familiar with the yacht and their role on board.

As a crew member, you will need to hold a Sea Safety Survival Certificate. We recommend contacting Neil Driscoll, from AAB Boating, to complete your SSSC.

  • Sail handling : The “drills and skills” module will be covering all the basics of sail handling, yacht racing and safety procedures. Training will be run in Sydney Harbour and surrounds just prior to the Blue Water Series- starting in November.
  • Qualifying race : You will be required to participate in the Cabbage Tree Island Race scheduled in December 2021 (A part of the Blue Water Series). You will experience a big ocean race start and medium haul ocean race with full racing gear and crew rotation. This race is a shorter equivalent of the Sydney Hobart race but is run to the same racing & crew rotation model.
  • If you are an experienced sailor that would like to join us for Sydney to Hobart , but cannot commit to the Blue Water Series, then please contact us to discuss alternatives.
  • Pre-race training: 3 consecutive full days of training will take place, within the last week prior to the Hobart Race, in Sydney Harbour.
  • Bird Island Race: 86nm overnight race on the 12th and 13th of November.
  • Sydney harbour drill and skills dates: 22nd to 26th of November 2
  • Full Crew Training: 8th of November
  • Cabbage Tree Island Race: 3rd and 4th of December
  • Classic Sydney to Hobart regatta : 11th and 12th of December
  • Pre-race training/ Safety drills: 18th and 19th of December
  • Race start: 26 December
  • ETA Hobart: 29/30 December
  • Trophies and Fireworks : 31 December

Our price and Inclusions:

  • AUD$ 9,500.00 incl. GST (20% off for those that have raced with us before) - 50% is due when you book and will reserve your place. The remaining 50% is due by 10th November 2020.
  • Professional skipper and crew
  • All yacht costs and Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race entry fee
  • Full provisions on board during racing and lunch whilst training
  • Branded team polo and cap
  • 5 Professional crew

Your crew package excludes: accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, wet weather gear, PLBs and AIS trackers . Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility in case of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules.

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Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Cruise

Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2024

Exclusive spectator cruise on board Silver Spirit for the 2024 race

Boxing Day 2024, is the day millions of eyes turn to Sydney Harbour for the start of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race – one of the world’s greatest ocean races. While the skippers have their sights set on Hobart, the spectators on our Boxing Day cruises eagerly anticipate all the amazing action as the massive fleet competes for the perfect starting position.

The  Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race  is an annual event hosted by the  Cruising Yacht Club of Australia , starting in Sydney, New South Wales, on Boxing Day and finishing in Hobart, Tasmania. The race distance is approximately 630 nautical miles (1,170 km). The race is run in conjunction with the  Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania and is widely considered to be one of the most difficult  yacht races  in the world.

Silver Spirit is our beautiful timber cruiser, a classic yacht full of charm, she offers exclusive cruises for small groups. For her Boxing Day Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2023, she has a maximum guest capacity of just 30. This is to allow those lucky few the space to enjoy the boat crowd free with uninterrupted viewing of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race. View more details on Silver Spirit; here .

The Details

Boxing Day Cruise Schedule

10.45-11.00 Guests arrive at King Street Wharf

11.00-11.14 boarding, briefing and welcome drinks

11.15 – 12.45 substantial canapés served and bar service, watch the yachts warm-up

12.45-12.59 Yachts in position

13.00 Canons – The race starts

13.00-13.30 Follow alongside yachts towards heads

13.30-14.15 Cruise back to the city

14.15-14.30 return to King Street Wharf and disembark

King Street Wharf – Darling Harbour Wharf # TBC @ 11am, 26th December 2024

King Street Wharf – Darling Harbour Wharf # TBC @ 2.30pm, 26th December 2024

Max 30 guests

All-inclusive

Cruise is crewed by her owners; support a small family-run Australian business

Boxing Day 2024

2024 ticket price $375pp

Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2024 Inclusions

De Bortoli Prosecco,VIC 

McGuigan Zero Sparkling, SA

Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough NZ Houghton Margaret River Chardonnay, WA

Rose D’Amelie AOC Luberon Rose, France

Devils Corner Pinot Noir, Tas Taylors Estate Shiraz, SA Penfolds Koonunga Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, SA

Australian Beer and Cider

Pure Blonde, Coopers Pale Ale, Tooheys New, Great Northern, Apple Cider,

Selection of soft drinks, teas and coffees

Menus are subject to change and will be confirmed closer to the date.

Silver Spirit Boxing Day 2024 Cruise Menu

Vegetable spring rolls with edamame and sweet chilli sauce [VGN] [V] Fresh king prawns with seafood sauce [S] Arancini balls [V] Vermicelli rice noodle boxes [GF]

Salt and Pepper Squid bowls with tartare sauce and lemon wedge

Cream filled profiteroles

Menus are subject to change and will be confirmed closer to the date. Please advise of dietaries in advance.

Pictures were taken on Silver Spirits Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets in previous years.

Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2022

The race was initially planned to be a cruise by Peter Luke and some friends who had formed a club for those who enjoyed cruising as opposed to racing, however, when a visiting British Royal Navy Officer, Captain John Illingworth, suggested it be made a race, the event was born. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has grown over the decades, since the inaugural race in 1945, to become one of the top three offshore yacht races in the world, and it now attracts maxi yachts from all around the globe. 

Past Sydney to Hobart Cruise Guest’s Reviews

An amazing day onboard Silver Spirit. We were in Sydney to tick off a bucket list wish. We had read the reviews but were dubious as to how close we would be to the start of the Sydney Hobart. If we were any closer, we would have been taking part. Totally blown away with the skipper and his knowledge and ability to get us right on the line. Thomasin and her helper produced amazing canapes, open bar. Huge amount of room to be able to move around. Thank you, thank you.

Sydney to Hobart Cruise 2022

Perfect size boat with a cosy family feel and plenty of room on board. Excellent day, food and wine delicious and served with care. As for the exhilarating chase as the race got going….wow just wow This is a top 10 life experience, if you are lucky enough to get on board, you will not regret it!

Hayley – Sydney to Hobart Cruise 2022

View more reviews on TripAdvisor

Boxing Day Cruise Tickets

Silver Spirit Sydney

3.5 hour cruise

Catering included

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Max 180 guests

All-inclusive of food and drinks

4 hour cruise

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  • January 10, 2021

Sailing from Sydney to Hobart: The race and the journey

Rough waves, cold waters, high winds, and one winner. The Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is a one-of-a-kind event that is amazing to watch. If you’re considering taking the journey yourself, keep reading to learn more about it.

Rules of the Waves

The rules for this magnificent race have changed throughout the years. Rather than simply judging based on which boat makes it to the end of the race first, times are adjusted based on the size and other characteristics. In short, your boat needs to have a good power-to-weight ratio and, likely, larger sails.

The George Adams Tattersall Cup is one of the most desirable sailing prizes worldwide, and is offered to the handicap winner. These handicaps are complicated, but in short, the elapsed time between start and finish is multiplied by the yacht’s IRC rating. Any yacht sailed well, regardless if it’s a family heirloom boat or the most expensive yacht just purchased for the race, can win the IRC division of the race.

Of course, there is still a price for the first to cross the finish line. The J K Illingworth Challenge Cup is given to the crew who crosses first. How you and your team decide to tackle the race is entirely up to you.

It’s not just about having a fast boat and great sails, though. The waters are extremely treacherous, and your crew needs to be able to navigate its unpredictability. Oftentimes the winds can change unexpectedly, and your team’s reaction to these changes could make or break your race.

Cost of the Race

The race will likely cost you a pretty penny to participate. Generally speaking, major contenders who find themselves in line for honors spend millions to equip themselves for the race.

Don’t go into the race expecting prize money, though, as this race offers none. The race’s major sponsor, Rolex, gives out a Rolex watch to the fastest and handicap winning yacht captains. The real prize is the honor of winning.

Though, of course, the IRC winner is presented with the Tettersails Trophy, a bragging right in of itself.

The Fearsome Bass Strait

The Bass Strait is a critical path on the way from Sydney to Hobart. It’s known for its strong currents and harsh wind conditions. it was also known for Australia’s largest-ever peacetime search and rescue operation.

The 1998 Disaster

115 yachts departed from the harbor in Sydney, though only 44 made it to Hobart. A massive supercell storm stirred up in the Bass Strait, catching racers off guard. Wind blowing roughly 100 kph, the equivalent of a category two cyclone. The type of storm was unusual for the area, and not one many racers found themselves familiar with.

Waves were steep, currents strong. Some waves were reported to be 25m tall. The yachts were small in comparison, and coupled with low visibility from the thunderstorm, it was a dangerous, life-threatening situation.

Seven yachts were abandoned at sea. 55 sailors were rescued by civil and military aircraft. Six sailors lost their lives.

The storm and resulting destruction, in part, led to some changes in race operation. Now, there are stronger and better-defined communication pathways between the Bureau of Meteorology and race organizers. The technology available now to predict this serious weather is also much more advanced limiting some of the safety risk associated with the race.

Many racers found themselves retiring from the race in Eden. 16 sailors found respite with Kari Esplin, where she welcomed sailors into her home for food and shelter. Some stayed for weeks.

“We couldn’t help with the rescue, but we knew people would need warm drinks, dry clothes and a bed to sleep in,” she said .

Celebrating the Finish Line

Completing the race is a feat in itself, but from the 27th of December onward, Hobart’s seaside landscape turns into a racing festival. As the race finishers continue to cross, their friends and family celebrate with them at the finish line with the Taste of Tasmania food and wine festival.

And, of course, what would the end of December be without fireworks? Celebrating the race’s end with the year-end fireworks is a celebration not to  be missed.

  • The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the most difficult yacht races in the world
  • The first all-women crew sailed in 1975 on the Barbarian 
  • Two yachts have won handicap three races each: Freya and Love & War 
  • Racer Rony Cable from New South Wales has raced 49 times
  • The fastest race was completed in 2017 with a time of one day, nine hours, fifteen minutes and 24 seconds
  • 5,509 yachts have competed in the race, with an average of 80.01 yachts per race
  • The smallest yacht to have competed was 35ft long in the very first race
  • The largest yacht competed from 2009-2018 and was 100ft long, nearly three times the length of the smallest ship

Visit Corleone Marinas

No matter if you’re a boating enthusiast or a charter yacht service, NSW offers a wide range of destinations that are sure to please. Corleone Marinas offer four stunning locations around Sydney . Whether a resident or visitor, we provide berths, moorings, and slipways to provide excellent care of your boat.

We also have a Shipwright and Marine Mechanic to keep your boat in top shape. If you experience an issue on the water or in the slip, our mechanics diagnose, repair, and maintain your boat while you’re on shore enjoying the sights and sounds. Contact us today, and let’s have some fun on the water.

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Barbecue On A Boat? Yes, It Can Be Done

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Signs That Your Boat's Engine Needs Repair

My Boat Engine Won’t Start, What’s The Problem?

Whether you’re out for an afternoon of leisure with family in the marina, or you’re in the great open ocean and ready to head back after a long day, no one wants to turn the ignition key to be met with nothing but a churning noise, or even worse, nothing at all! Here are some

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What Exactly Is Deadrise And How Does It Affect My Boat?

In general, most boat hulls are constructed in a V-shape. These angled hulls allow the ship to drop below the surface and cut through water and waves at speed. The sharper the angle, the more a ship can slice through the water and keep the ride buttery smooth. The general idea is that Deadrise is

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Boat Propellor Maintenance, What you Need to Know

Whether you have a motor yacht or a sailing yacht, you probably have an engine that drives a propellor. You know that your boat and boat engine need regular maintenance, still, many yacht owners and even yacht charterers are unaware of how and why to maintain a propellor. Whether you have an inboard diesel engine

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Sydney's premium harbour locations.

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Corleone Marne Services Acknowledges Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Peoples As The Traditional Custodians Of The Land, Rivers And Sea. We Acknowledge And Pay Our Respects To The Elders Past, Present All Of Our Marinas Are A Safe Spaces Free Of Discrimination Or Fear; A Space, Free Of Bullying And Harassment Of Any Kind. We Will Work Together Honouring Our Differences And Celebrating Our Strengths, Individual Qualities And Contributions; Upholding The Values Of Trust, Respect And Confidentiality.

CMS Is Dedicated To Providing A Harassment-Free Environment For All Employees, Regardless Of Gender, Gender Identity And Expression, Sexual Orientation, Intersex Status, Disability, Ethnicity, Or Religion. We Do Not Tolerate Bullying And Harassment In Any Form. We Are Committed To Building A Diverse And Inclusive Workplace. We Pledge To Cultivate A Workplace Culture That Is Safe, Accessible, Fosters Inclusiveness, Promotes Diversity And Celebrates The Unique Skills And Qualities Of All Our Employees.

At Corleone Marinas, We Recognize Our Responsibility To Help Protect The Planet. We Are Committed To Minimizing Our Impact On The Environment And Supporting Those Who Are Working To Improve Global Environmental Sustainability. W-E’re Committed To Reducing The Impact Our Company Has On The Environment. We Care About Sustainability, And Are Continually Working To Improve Our Environmental Performance Through The Introduction And Advancement Of Policies, Procedures, And Work Practices That Allow Us To Deliver A Brilliant Service With Limited Environmental Impact. Introduction And Advancement Of Policies, Procedures, And Work Practices That Allow Us To Deliver A Brilliant Service With Limited Environmental Impact.

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MPU July August September

Rolex Sydney to Hobart race entry fees to be cut by near half

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how much does a sydney to hobart yacht cost

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

how much does a sydney to hobart yacht cost

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Cruising Yacht Club of Australia clubhouse and marina

NOTE TO ALL COMPETITORS: Marina power in Hobart

Please note, to access power at Constitution Dock, Kings Pier Marina and Elizabeth Street Pier, competitors must ensure that:

  • Power leads are tagged and tested, and within date;
  • Power leads are run in a safe manner, they are not be left across walkways or in the water;
  • Only 15amp power leads are plugged into 15amp power outlets. If a 10amp lead is plugged into a 15amp outlet there is the potential for the lead to melt and damage the outlet;
  • Power leads are not ‘daisy-chained’ across yachts. Yachts that are rafted up are not to run power across to other yachts. Only the yacht with a specific berth allocation will have access to power;

 Please also note, if the use of power causes any damage to infrastructure, the cost of repairs will be charged back to the yacht owner.

A member of our Team will meet you on arrival to help ensure the above is adhered to. Security will also be patrolling the marina & other berthing areas to check the above guidelines are being adhered to.

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia Marina Facility

The CYCA marina offers deep water berthing facilities comprising a floating marina for 224 yachts. Bookings are essential and subject to availability.

On-site contract boating services include riggers, shipwrights, mechanical and electrical services. Other services available at the neighbouring d'Albora Marina include fuel service, a ship chandlery, mechanical services, and upholstery trimmer. 

Rolex Sydney Hobart

Subject to availability, boats not permanently berthed or moored in Sydney Harbour will be located on the marina on a first-come, first-served basis. Preference will be given to overseas and inter/intra-state boats.

Berthing at the CYCA will be complimentary for all overseas, inter-state and non-Sydney Harbour entrants in the Rolex Sydney Hobart, for the period from 22 December through to 26 December.

Such boats also entered in the CYCA Trophy Series will be entitled to complimentary berthing over the two days of the CYCA Trophy Series.

Click here to complete the visiting boat registration form

Click here to view a map of the CYCA marina

Kings Pier Marina, Hobart

Located 200 metres from the Rolex Sydney Hobart finish line and just minutes from Hobart's GPO and within easy walking distance to cafes, restaurants, bars, chandleries and retail facilities.

Home to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race finish for the past 70 years, the facilities include Constitution Dock, north Elizabeth Street Pier and the Kings Pier Marina.

The Kings Pier Marina provides fifty-four floating berths suiting vessels up to 17 metres in length. A full range of services is available including electrical outlets, fire hose reels, life buoys, water, fire extinguishers and alarm boxes. The amenities block features showers, toilets and laundry block.

Berthing for boats in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is included in the race entry fee and is valid from 28 December until 0900 3 January. Any entrants wishing to extend their stay will be welcomed, subject to a marina fee and availability. Casual berthing is available in Constitution Dock, the Elizabeth Street Pier and Kings Pier Marina.   Those wishing to avail themselves of this opportunity should contact TasPorts reception on 1300 366 742.

All competitors are required to complete the TasPorts Vessel Information Form on arrival into Hobart and hand it to an RYCT volunteer at the marina or in the Liaison Centre. 

  • Line Honours

Full Standings available approximately three hours after the start.

Virtual Regatta. The official game

OFFICIAL ROLEX SYDNEY HOBART MERCHANDISE

Shop the official clothing range of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in person at the Club in New South Head Road, Darling Point or online below.  

From casual to technical clothing, there is something for all occasions. Be quick as stock is limited!

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COMMENTS

  1. Sydney to Hobart yacht race: everything you need to know

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  2. Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

    The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is an annual event hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, starting in Sydney, New South Wales, on Boxing Day and finishing in Hobart, Tasmania. The race distance is approximately 630 nautical miles (1,170 km). [1] The race is run in conjunction with the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, and is widely ...

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    Black, on the other hand, protects the sails against the sun's harmful UV rays, making them much more durable. Posted 27 Dec 2023 27 Dec 2023 Wed 27 Dec 2023 at 1:25am , updated 27 Dec 2023 27 Dec ...

  8. Sydney to Hobart yacht race

    You can also watch vision from the event on the Sydney to Hobart yacht race website. The start of the 1955 Sydney to Hobart, with Phalarope leading. ( Cruising Yacht Club Of Australia )

  9. The tech millionaire who crossed first in the Sydney to Hobart yacht

    The Sydney to Hobart yacht race has been run and won by a self-confessed frustrated sailor who thinks his boat does better when he's asleep below deck. ... "To build that boat again would cost you ...

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    The cannon sounds and they are off in the Sydney to Hobart for another year. (Rolex/Studio Borlenghi) From its beginning in 1945, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race remains one of the pinnacles for ...

  11. 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Entries Open

    2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Entries Open. 08/07/2023. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is pleased to welcome entries for eligible yachts for the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. The 78th edition of the historic 628 nautical mile classic will start on Sydney Harbour at 1pm on Tuesday 26 December 2023.

  12. Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race 2023: Inside the biggest and smallest boats

    At high tide in Sydney, Andoo Comanche only just fits under the Harbour Bridge. One of four 100-foot super maxis in this year's Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, it's 7.85 metres wide with a 47 ...

  13. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

    The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will again start in accordance with tradition with the firing of a starting cannon. The start will be at 1.00pm on Boxing Day, 26 December. The fleet will start from start lines off Nielsen Park with boats on the northern line rounding "Victor Mark" and boats on the southern lines rounding "X-Ray Mark", at the ...

  14. Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race 2021

    Bird Island Race: 86nm overnight race on the 12th and 13th of November. Sydney harbour drill and skills dates: 22nd to 26th of November 2. Full Crew Training: 8th of November. Cabbage Tree Island Race: 3rd and 4th of December. Classic Sydney to Hobart regatta: 11th and 12th of December. Pre-race training/ Safety drills: 18th and 19th of December.

  15. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

    CQS laying over on Sydney Harbour. The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is a classic long ocean race open to anyone who owns a yacht that qualifies for this challenging event and which meets all the safety requirements of a Category 1 safety race. In the earliest years of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, all the yachts were built from timber - heavy ...

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    2023 ROLEX SYDNEY HOBART YACHT RACE DOCUMENTATION Prizegiving Runsheet Notice of Race. Sailing Instructions Amendment 1 to the Sailing Instructions - UPDATED 1030hrs Division List. Start Lines. Notice to Competitors 1 Southern Cross Cup Entries Helpful documents Race Retirement Form. Protest Form Arriving in Hobart

  18. Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2023 on Silver Spirit

    Eclipse. $225pp. Max 180 guests. Open Bar. All-inclusive of food and drinks. 4 hour cruise. View Eclipse's Boxing Day Cruise Tickets. Sydney to Hobart yacht race tickets 2023, Boxing Day cruise on Silver Spirit. All inclusive small group luxury cruising with Spirit Fleet; just 30 guests!

  19. Sailing from Sydney to Hobart: The race and the journey

    The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the most difficult yacht races in the world. The first all-women crew sailed in 1975 on the Barbarian. Two yachts have won handicap three races each: Freya and Love & War. Racer Rony Cable from New South Wales has raced 49 times.

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    If you have any queries or want a customised package get in touch, and we'll get back to you asap. Get onboard Sydney Charter Boat luxury catamaran, Eclipse to watch the start of the 2023 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Tickets include premium catering and drinks, for only $225pp.

  21. Sydney to Hobart 2023 (Best Vantage Point!)

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  22. Rolex Sydney to Hobart race entry fees to be cut by near half

    by Peter Campbell on 9 Apr 2002. In a positive move to attract more entries for the 2002 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia has announced that it is cutting the entry fee for the race by almost half. Whilst only a relatively small amount in the overall cost of mounting a campaign for the 630 nautical mile blue ...

  23. Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

    Please also note, if the use of power causes any damage to infrastructure, the cost of repairs will be charged back to the yacht owner. ... Berthing for boats in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is included in the race entry fee and is valid from 28 December until 0900 3 January.