The Rolex Sydney Hobart Race returns to Australia’s famed Sydney Harbour for its 79th year, December 25, 2024, through January 2, 2025. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) announced that “entries for the highly anticipated 79th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race have officially closed and that an impressive fleet of 106 yachts is ready to take on the challenge.”
A Legendary Race with Global Recognition
Over its near 80-year run, the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has risen in notoriety as one of Australia’s most iconic summer sports. The race now ranks in public interest alongside national events such as the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open, and the Boxing Day cricket test. It is said that the massive media coverage on starting day is larger than any other annual yachting event in the world.
The Challenging 628-Nautical-Mile Course
The race starts in Sydney Harbour before the fleet sails out into the Tasman Sea, down the south-east coast of mainland Australia, across Bass Strait, then down the east coast of Tasmania. At Tasman Island, the competitors turn right into Storm Bay for the final stretch and sail up the Derwent River to the historic port city of Hobart. Often described as the most grueling long ocean race in the world, the 628 nautical mile course is a challenge for all participants.
Events leading up to the race are held in the Rolex Sydney Race Village, including the VIP & Skippers Launch, Crew Party and the new Quiet Little Drink and Long Lunch. Visit this link to discover all events held the RSHYR Sydney Race Village.
Exciting Pre-Race Events at the Rolex Sydney Race Village
Participants and spectators can enjoy a range of pre-race festivities at the Rolex Sydney Race Village. Key events leading up to the race include:
- VIP & Skippers Launch
- Crew Party
- Quiet Little Drink and Long Lunch (New Event)
These events set the stage for the highly anticipated race, allowing participants, crews, and spectators to connect and celebrate.
Where to Experience the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
Sydney Village at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia
The Sydney Village will be the heart of the action, featuring a big screen for race coverage, a Helly Hansen merchandise shop, outdoor seating, and a bar where fans and spectators can gather to watch the start of the race.
Hobart Village at Constitution Dock
As yachts complete the 628-nautical-mile journey, they will be greeted at the Hobart Village, located on the waterside at Constitution Dock. Here, spectators can enjoy live music, kids’ activities, on-stage Q&A sessions, and a selection of food and drink from local vendors as they watch the boats cross the finish line.
Both villages create a vibrant festival atmosphere for sailing enthusiasts and visitors, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.
How to Watch the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race Live
Fans worldwide can tune in to watch the thrilling start of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race as the fleet sets sail from Sydney Harbour. The event is broadcast live, with extensive coverage capturing the excitement as the yachts make their way into the Tasman Sea. The final stretch, where boats cross the finish line at Hobart’s Constitution Dock, is also covered live, allowing fans to track their favorite teams as they complete the grueling course.
Event Dates:
- Dates/Times: Wednesday December 25, 2024 – Thursday January 2, 2025.
- Locations: The Sydney Village at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and The Hobart Village at Constitution Dock
Watch the video Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2024 – Preview on YouTube.
