Beginning on Boxing Day each year since its inauguration in 1945, the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious offshore sailing competitions. Most years, it attracts a mix of professional teams and amateur sailors, with the fleet often exceeding 100 yachts. The highest number of entries ever in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race was 371 yachts, which occurred for the 50th race in 1994⏤a significant increase from the nine yachts that raced in 1945. This year, the 80th anniversary of the race, organisers expect a fleet of over 130 racing and racer cruising yachts to compete across multiple divisions including a possible record-breaking contingent of double-handed entries.
What’s on the line? Bragging rights, of course—no question about it! But beyond that, the race features several prestigious awards. The coveted Tattersall Cup is presented to the overall winner on corrected time under the IRC rating system. Line honours go to the first yacht to cross the finish line. The Jane Tate Memorial Trophy is awarded to the first female skipper to complete the race. Meanwhile, the Southern Cross Cup is given to the top team of three boats that enter together, representing a club, state, or country, and finish the race first.
On Wednesday (12th March) registrations opened for the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, and will close on Friday 24 October at 1700 hours.
The race kicks off in Sydney Harbour, leading into an exhilarating stretch down Australia’s east coast. Competitors then face the often-challenging conditions of Bass Strait before navigating Tasmania’s breathtaking coastline. Along the way, fleets pass iconic landmarks such as Tasman Island, the Organ Pipes, and Storm Bay before crossing the finish line in Hobart on the River Derwent. This race definitely has its challenges.
For those New Zealand-based racing and racer cruising yachts who would like to enter the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, then you might be further enticed by the newly established three-part Southern Cross Series which will provide further opportunities to unfurl your sails. The Southern Cross Series is a three-race offshore series that includes the:
- Cabbage Tree Island Race – A 172nm coastal challenge.
- Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (Late December) – The legendary 628nm blue water classic.
- Trans-Tasman Yacht Race (February 2026) – A 1,270nm pursuit start race from Sydney to Auckland.
Spanning three major races over just three months, the Southern Cross Series provides unparalleled value for international campaigns. It’s a unique opportunity to compete in iconic races, immerse yourself in elite sailing culture, and take on one of the world’s greatest offshore challenges.
Original article: https://www.rolexsydneyhobart.com/news/2025/pre-race/80th-rolex-sydney-hobart-yacht-race-entries-are-open/
