The countdown to the 2026 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has officially begun, with entries opening today, Tuesday 26 May. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), alongside finishing partner the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania (RYCT), invites both seasoned sailors and newcomers to register early for this iconic race. Last year, 128 yachts participated, marking the second largest fleet in the past century, only surpassed by the 157 boats in the 75th edition in 2019.
Known as the “Great Race South,” the Rolex Sydney Hobart has been a hallmark of offshore sailing since its inception in 1945, starting with just nine yachts. The race spans 628 nautical miles and is renowned as one of the most respected and challenging offshore races in the world. It concludes the Audi Centre Sydney Blue Water Pointscore (ACSBWPS), a series of six races leading up to the Rolex Sydney Hobart.
The allure of the race keeps sailors returning year after year, drawn by the thrill of competitive racing and the stunning Australian scenery. CYCA Commodore Dr Sam Haynes, a veteran of 15 Sydney Hobarts, expressed excitement for the upcoming 81st edition, highlighting the event’s prestige and the thrilling experience it offers both participants and spectators.
The historic 2025 edition showcased the event’s competitive nature when Jiang Lin and co-skipper Alexis Loison in the JPK 10.30 Min River became the first double-handed team to win the Overall race since the division’s introduction in 2021. Lin hopes her victory inspires more sailors, particularly women, to participate in double-handed racing, showcasing that success is achievable regardless of the crew size.
The popularity of the Double Handed Division is expected to rise, especially after last year’s 17 strong entries, with five crews finishing in the top ten Overall. Organisers anticipate more participation in this category for the 2026 race, following the success of teams like Min River.
International entries are also expected to be robust, with 16 international boats participating last year. Notable competitors included BNC – my::NET / LEON, which travelled from New Caledonia, and Lucky, a former record-winning yacht.
Women sailors accounted for 12% of last year’s entries, a figure race organisers hope to increase in future editions. Elizabeth Tucker led an all-women crew aboard Class40 First Light, winning the Barbarian Trophy for being the first all-women crewed yacht on IRC.
Last year saw a fierce competition among the maxis, with Master Lock Comanche leading a fleet of six 100-footers. The return of Palm Beach XI, now modified for better performance, adds to the excitement for the next race. Comanche will also return, helmed by Anthony Bell, known for his previous wins on other yachts.
Registration for this highly anticipated event is open until 1700 hours, Friday 23 October. For those ready to embark on a thrilling maritime adventure, now is the time to secure a spot in this prestigious race.
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