Event · Sydney Harbour · December
Boxing Day and the Sydney to Hobart Start
The start gun, the spinnakers and the run to the Heads, from your own deck.
This year · 2026/27
Updated each seasonDate
Saturday
26 December 2026
Day charter, approximately five hours on board. Race start 1:00pm.
Times
The start line, spectator zones and vessel limits are set by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and NSW Maritime. We confirm each yacht's viewing position ahead of the day.
From the water
Why it's best from the water
The spectator fleet is the biggest of the year. From a superyacht you watch the start from above the crowd, then follow the leaders out to sea.
Our captains hold position on the spectator line for the 1pm gun, then run with the fleet as the maxis set their spinnakers and clear the Heads. From the sun deck you see the whole picture, not one corner of it.
Lunch is served under way, the day stays relaxed, and you are back on the wharf by late afternoon with the race well under way.
The yachts
Which of our yachts suit it
The day
How the day works
- 11:00amBoard at your wharfWelcome drinks as the yacht leaves for the spectator line.
- 12:00pmLunch under wayThe chef's lunch as the harbour fills.
- 1:00pmThe startPosition held on the spectator line for the gun.
- 1:30pmTo the HeadsRunning with the leaders as they clear the harbour.
- 4:00pmReturnBack to the wharf of your choice.
On board
What's included
- Captain and full crew for the day
- Positioning on the spectator line
- Chef's lunch, from canapés to dessert
- Beverages selected to your brief
- Sound system and shade on deck
- Wharf transfers arranged on request
From our own library
In frame
Questions
Before you book
How far ahead should we book?
Boxing Day sits inside the Christmas and New Year block, so the yachts are often confirmed together. Six to nine months ahead is usual. Ask and we can tell you which yachts are open for the day.
How many guests can come?
Lumir takes up to 55 guests for the day, Belle and Sea Raes up to 36 each.
How close can we get to the start?
Spectator vessels are kept outside the exclusion zone around the start line and the fleet's course to the Heads. Our captains hold the best position the limits allow, then follow the fleet to sea.
Can we go outside the Heads?
Yes, conditions permitting. The captain decides on the day.
Enquire
Hold a yacht for Boxing Day
A member of the team replies within one business day with availability and a proposal.