aerial view of white ships

Sydney, NSW · Summer

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (start)

26 December (Boxing Day) annually

The Rolex Sydney Hobart is one of the world's great ocean races, and its Boxing Day start is a Sydney institution. At 1pm on 26 December the fleet charges down the harbour and out through the Heads at the start of 628 nautical miles to Hobart, racing through some of the most demanding water in offshore sailing.

An estimated 200,000 spectators watch the start from the harbour foreshore, all free. The headlands at South Head, Nielsen Park and Bradleys Head give the best views of the fleet under spinnaker. The race has started every Boxing Day since 1945, and following the tracker over the following days is a national summer habit.

  • Sport
  • Major Event
  • Free entry
When
26 December (Boxing Day) annually
How often
Every year
Venue
Sydney Harbour
Crowd
Estimated 200,000+ foreshore spectators
Entry
Free
Setting
Outdoor
Public holiday
Boxing Day
Sydney HarbourEstimated 200,000+ foreshore spectatorsOfficial event site

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

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One-way trip

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