sydney hobart yacht locations

• CLASSIFIEDS
• NEWSLETTERS
• SUBMIT NEWS

A competitive fleet set for the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Related Articles

Sydney to Hobart yacht race — how to watch and what to look for

From its beginning in 1945, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race remains one of the pinnacles for sailing competitors.

Dismissed by some as "rich people and their toy boats", the race is actually a gruelling test of skill, teamwork and boat design — with the weather thrown into the mix. 

If you know what to look for, the S2H can be an enjoyable experience, so here are some tips as to getting the best out of it.

When does it start?

Around 90 boats ranging from 100ft Super Maxis to smaller 30 footers will be ready to go at 1pm AEDT on Sydney Harbour, Boxing Day.

Even though the race fleet will be fewer in numbers due to COVID (more on that later), there will still be a gazillion sails — competitors, officials, media and spectators — running around the water ahead of the firing of the starting cannon.

Once the race is on, it's a bolt to The Heads and into the open water of the South Pacific.

The fleet then begins to make its way down the east coast of Australia to Hobart.

How can I watch it?

The Seven Network, through 7Mate, will broadcast the start of the race live around Australia. Their coverage starts at 12:30pm (AEDT).

ABC TV will also be following the fleet down the eastern seaboard and provide all the in-race news footage that is used by the various Australian and International news networks.

For those who can't get to watch the live broadcast of the start of the race on the Seven Network across Australia, Seven West Media will webcast the program.

You can also watch a webcast of the live broadcast on the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race website .

If you are in Sydney and on the water, sponsor Rolex advises "if you only plan on watching the start, and don't wish to follow the fleet, then stick to the western side of the harbour".

Good vantage points for spectator boats include "Taylors Bay, Chowder Bay, Obelisk Bay and North Head on the west and Rose Bay, Watsons Bay, Camp Cove and South Head to the east".

Rolex says the harbour will be "very crowded and traffic can be chaotic, so stay alert, follow the advice of race officials and remember to keep well clear of the exclusion zone between 12pm and 2pm".

Rolex also notes the "Clearview glass boat is the only public spectator vessel permitted within the Sydney Harbour exclusion zone".

How can I follow the boats online?

The race sponsor Rolex has a tracker on their website , which plots the course of yachts as they move south.

The position of yachts is transmitted by a GPS device on each vessel. You can follow your favourite boats easily by clicking on the heart symbol.

As the race goes on, you can see the course charted by crews and marvel at how each team plots and schemes their way to the finish.

Unless of course the boat's GPS device gets switched off, rendering it invisible to spectators and other competitors — an accusation which was levelled at Wild Oats XI in 2018 by the owner of Black Jack.

Skulduggery on the high seas! We told you it could be fun.

What should I look out for?

Apart from GPS shenanigans, the wild card is always the weather.

All jokes aside, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race is taken seriously for good reason — people have died when the seas get rough.

The 1998 race has gone down in history as a maritime disaster that cost lives and changed marine forecasting practice .

Six sailors died, five yachts sank, more than 60 yachts retired and 55 participants had to be rescued by helicopter.

In 2015, a squall hit the fleet off the News South Wales coast, ending the race for 29 competitors.

Even in calm conditions, boats under stress break stuff and crews retire for a host of reasons.

In 2016, a slew of boats had to call it quits due to shredded sails and steering problems.

Then there are the underdog v supermaxi battles which pit the hopefuls against the cashed-up crews.

As race sponsor Rolex says, the race is made up from "weekend club sailors to professionals from the America's Cup and Volvo Ocean Race circuits".

Lots to watch out for!

When does the race finish?

With the very fast boats (Wild Oats XI, Comanche) not in this year's race, the lines honours winner is likely to come in around 48 hours after the start — noonish or thereabouts on Tuesday, December 28, but who knows what part the weather might play.

It is also important to note there are two prizes at stake in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race .

The finish line proper is 12 nautical miles (22.2 kilometres) up the Derwent River off Battery Point, where a cannon signals the first across the line.

The reigning line honours victor is Comanche. It won in a time of 1 day, 18 hours and 30 minutes in 2019.

The first yacht across the line wins the JH Illingworth Trophy, but the overall winner on handicap wins the Tattersalls Cup.

The overall victory is considered the major prize for sailors and a testament to skill and tactics.

Most of the time, handicap honours are won by a smaller, slower boat, which outdoes its larger opposition when time is adjusted for size and other factors.

The reigning overall winner is Ichi Ban. It finished in 3 days, 4 hours and 11 minutes in 2019.

As a result of the pandemic, the 2021 fleet will be smaller than previous years due to a lack of international entrants, and other flow-on effects.

Good luck to all racers!

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Comanche takes sydney to hobart after wild oats xi penalised.

Sydney to Hobart protest against Wild Oats XI deemed invalid

• Accidents and Emergency Incidents

• Skip to content
• Skip to footer

• Français

ROLEX SYDNEY HOBART YACHT RACE: DEFINED BY AN INTREPID SPIRIT AND CAMARADERIE

Geneva, 23 December 2021 - The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race holds a towering status in the world of sailing. It captures the attention of a nation and enjoys a glowing international reputation that has long transcended the traditional boundaries of the sport. Rolex has partnered this legendary competition and its organizers, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), since 2002.

Over its three-quarters of a century history, the race has provided a platform for human achievement and endeavour, qualities that align with Rolex's core philosophy and which underpin the Swiss watchmaker's more than 60-year involvement in yachting. The 76th edition is scheduled for the traditional lunchtime start on 26 December, with a fleet of more than 90 yachts expected to take on the famous 628-nautical mile (1,010 kilometres) course.

Some 60,000 sailors and 7,000 yachts have taken part in the race since its inception in 1945. From its beginnings, competitors have been drawn to the scale and unpredictability of the challenge, and to the demands on their skills in both preparing and handling their yacht.

After a spectacular departure from Sydney Harbour, the fleet heads south along the New South Wales coast of the Tasman Sea before crossing Bass Strait to tackle the east coast of Tasmania, Storm Bay and the final 12-nm (22 km) stretch in the often decisive, and sometimes cruel, Derwent River, before finishing in Hobart. Most entrants spend four to five days at sea. Watch systems and resources need to be managed assiduously. To negotiate the testing conditions requires willpower, experience and intuition.

Sir Ben Ainslie, a Rolex Testimonee, four-time Olympic gold medallist and helm of the Great Britain SailGP Team, is a past competitor and says: The experience gave me a real appreciation of the sailing prowess and camaraderie inherent in offshore racing, especially within the Corinthian boats taking two or three times as long and being not quite as comfortable as the maxis. A neat part of these races is the fact that handicap means, whatever the size of boat, everyone has a chance to win. The weather plays a part but smaller amateur-sailed boats often win against the professionals.

Winning the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race overall after time correction and securing the coveted Tattersall Cup guarantees a place in yachting folklore. Matt Allen's Ichi Ban has won two of the past three editions, in 2017 and 2019. Should the Australian boat emerge victorious again, she will join two of the race's most celebrated names, Freya (1963, 1964, 1965) and Love & War (1974, 1978, 2006), on three victories.

Beyond the competition to win overall, the consistent presence of some of the world's most impressive 100-foot (30.5 metre) Maxi yachts has produced epic contests in the battle to be first across the finish line. The race record currently stands at 33 hours, 15 minutes and 24 seconds, set by  Comanche  in 2017. Arriving in Hobart inside two days, a marker first set in 1999, has been achieved in each of the past four editions.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart attracts both professional and Corinthian sailors. Leaders from the political, business and entertainment worlds, as well as stars from other sports, have been drawn to participate. This all adds to the race’s appeal, which is already bolstered by a distinctive position in the sailing calendar and the pioneering feats of those who have confronted its many obstacles over the years. Matt Allen, a former Commodore of the CYCA, spent decades trying to win the event as a skipper. His story is one of persistence, of the time it can take to acquire the experience and knowledge to succeed. Having completed his 30th race to Hobart in 2019, he remarked:

“Over the years, I’ve seen amazing boats participate but it’s actually the people that  make this race and ocean racing what they are.”

Intrepid human spirit lies at the heart of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race’s creation and remains its foundation today. Rolex is proud to support a sporting contest that mirrors the brand’s own Perpetual spirit: humbly adapting to the elements, constantly seeking to improve and summoning one’s deepest resources.

A NATURAL AND SUPPORTIVE PARTNER Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand's enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie. Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events - from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world's most famous harbours. Rolex's partnerships with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, New York Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron, among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

Contact details

Virginie Chevailler

Giles Pearman

Related News

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Rolex Sydney Hobart: How to win the legendary race

• December 21, 2023

World and European Championship-winning professional navigator, Tom Cheney, gives his advice on how to win the Rolex Sydney Hobart race

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race stands as a pinnacle of offshore yacht racing. Its reputation as the hardest of the classic offshore races is well deserved. Compared to the northern hemisphere 600-milers, for example the Fastnet and Middle Sea Races , the 628-mile Sydney Hobart is much more remote. Once out of Sydney Harbour, you quickly lose mobile phone signal and are left feeling isolated from the rest of the world, something which feels quite alien to most of us in 2023.

The New South Wales coast offers relatively few safe havens should you need to retire from the race, though this is nothing compared to the sense of exposure sailing in the Bass Strait. A fetch of thousands of miles of Southern Ocean and chilling sea temperatures create some of the most challenging conditions that many of us will ever experience. It’s easy to see why this race has significantly stricter safety regulations than its northern hemisphere equivalents.

Huge spectator fleets, and three start lines, make for a challenging but spectacular send off for competitors in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race. Photo: Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

Exiting the Heads

The race begins with a true spectacle in Sydney Harbour, where hundreds of Australians gather to watch the start in a now well-established Boxing Day tradition. Television news helicopters, a packed spectator fleet and some key exclusion zones add to the excitement as you make your way out of the iconic Sydney Heads. Unlike many other big races the whole fleet starts at the same time, but spread across three staggered start lines. In order to make the race the same 628-mile length for everyone, the first two turning marks differ depending on your starting group (an extra complexity for the navigator!).

Typically the fleet starts in a north-easterly breeze, which means a fairly square beat to the first mark. The separate starting areas do help to ease the traffic a little for the smaller boats, but keeping a clean lane is paramount as you bounce off the marked spectator boundaries. After mark one, reaching for just over a mile out through the Heads can be a tussle, with plenty of boats still in close proximity. Sea state builds as you leave the harbour and there’s not long to prepare for what is usually (initially) a VMG downwind leg down the New South Wales coast.

Choosing how to negotiate the East Australian Current is the first major decision for navigators.

New South Wales coast

After the excitement of leaving Sydney Harbour, navigators now encounter their first major decision point: choosing the route south through the East Australian Current (EAC) and anticipating any cold fronts that may be moving north-east up the course.

The EAC is a surface current driven by winds over the South Pacific. Usually it is south-flowing between Sydney and Bass Strait with large gyres and meandering eddies. The flow of the EAC is ever changing, but luckily there are some good models and observations that can help you pick your way south. For routing the Australian Bureau of Meteorology has a seven-day forecast called OceanMAPS and there is also a four-hour sea surface temperature observation from IMOS which gives you a good idea of where the eddies are relative to the forecast.

The smaller yachts in the 2022 Rolex Sydney Hobart yacht race faced a period of intense upwind sailing. Photo: Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

The trick is to pick a couple of waypoints where you think the best current is going to be and then try to connect the dots. Weighing up your best shot at positive current against positioning for a front/shift is the big challenge here. As you get further south towards the entrance to the strait, you also need to consider the considerable wind bend as the prevailing westerly wind wraps around the south coast.

Bass Strait

The Bass Strait is notorious for its rough seas and volatile weather. If there’s a cold front moving north and east then pleasant, fast downwind conditions can turn into hard, cold upwind conditions very quickly. A big change in wind direction like this often means a potentially boat-breaking confused sea state. The strait can serve up some of the most challenging conditions in ocean racing, with strong westerly winds known as the ‘Roaring Forties’.

Anticipating a big change in conditions like this, and being appropriately prepared, are an absolute necessity for every boat in the race. The ECMWF and GFS global models can be used to track the big picture weather systems and for running weather routing. There is also an Australian ACCESS model, based on the UK Met Office’s Unified Model. This is not so easy to get hold of, but for those taking the race very seriously, the legendary forecaster Roger ‘Clouds’ Badham provides some GRIB file downloads to teams he is forecasting for.

Smuggler off Tasman island during the 2021 Rolex Sydney Hobart Race. Photo: Rolex/Andrea Francolini

Approaching Tasmania

Approaching Tasmania the race enters its tactical endgame. The coastline offers shelter and potential wind shadows, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Choosing when to head offshore for wind or inshore for shelter is often the key to this stage.

Weather in the aptly named Storm Bay can be very unpredictable. The area can be becalmed, leaving yachts stranded for hours, or it can be struck by sudden storms, particularly in the afternoon when the heat from the land can generate strong sea breezes or thunderstorms.

The fetch across the bay can build up substantial waves and the wind can accelerate around the Tasman Peninsula, creating gusty and unstable conditions.

Some of these local features are not captured by typical weather models, so keep an eye on observations and any competitors you can see ahead of you on AIS. There are some high resolution WRF weather models for Hobart available through Nick White’s Expedition navigation software that do a good job of modelling some of these local effects.

Famously fickle breezes can hamper boats in Hobart’s River Derwent at the finish. Photo: Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

The final approach to Hobart is up the Derwent River, where winds can be fickle, and many a lead has been lost in these final miles. If you’re lucky then you might finish in a nice afternoon sea breeze, those less fortunate can be becalmed for hours, particularly when finishing at night or in the early hours.

Race like no other

Finishing the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race is a significant achievement in itself and the reception all boats receive is unlike anywhere else. Whatever time of day, finishing teams are greeted by a cheering crowd at Constitution Dock and the Elizabeth St Pier. It’s also pretty much mandatory to stop at the Customs House pub for a debrief and to exchange stories from the great race.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race official spectator vessel "THE JACKSON"

Event description.

The official and only public  spectator vessel within the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Exclusion Zone .  Enjoy being on The Main Deck  for the start of this year's race aboard Sydney's newest and most luxurious superyacht inspired vessel, The Jackson! The Jackson will provide everchanging and upfront 360 degree views of the start of this iconic ocean race. Be inside the Exclusion Zone, be on the start line, have prime viewing to witness the firing of the 10-minute, 5-minute and start canons, as well as see the fleet jostle for position in and around the thrilling start line on Sydney Harbour.  

The Main Deck of The Jackson provides floor-to-ceiling windows, designer décor and luxurious furnishings, dedicated bar, and direct access to both a front and back outdoor deck.

A selection of official 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race merchandise will be available for purchase on-board the vessel too.  

As always it will be an impressive spectacle watching the yachts start their journey in one of the world’s most grueling yacht races.

Tickets include:

• Luxury four hour Boxing Day lunch cruise on The Main deck of The Jackson
• C anapés and substantial canapés throughout the day  
• Premium beverages including beer, red, white and rose wine, sparkling wine, non-alcoholic, soft drinks and fruit juice during the entire cruise
• Live commentary of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
• 5-metre built-in LED screen streaming Channel Seven live telecast
• Departing and returning from King Street Wharf 1
• Boarding from 0945hr
• DEPARTING 1015hrs SHARP , Returning approx. 1500hrs

Price:  $360pp (GST included)

DEPARTURE AND RETURN VENUE:

King Street Wharf No.1, Darling Harbour

Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix donates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity

Refund policy

• Visit our Facebook page
• Visit our Instagram profile
• Visit our Twitter feed
• Visit our YouTube channel

• This event has passed.

26/12/2023 @ 9:30 am - 3:00 pm

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race official spectator vessel “THE JACKSON” – SOLD OUT

The Jackson is officially SOLD OUT for the 2023 Boxing Day Start.

The official and only public  spectator vessel within the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Exclusion Zone .  Enjoy being on The Main Deck for the start of this year’s race aboard Sydney’s newest and most luxurious superyacht inspired vessel, The Jackson!

Tickets include:

• Luxury four hour Boxing Day lunch cruise 
• Canapés and substantial canapés throughout the day 
• Premium beverages including beer, red, white and rose wine, sparkling wine, non-alcoholic, soft drinks and fruit juice during the entire cruise
• Live commentary of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
• 5-metre built-in LED screen streaming Channel Seven live telecast
• Departing and returning from King Street Wharf 1
• Boarding at 0930 HR
• DEPARTING 1000hrs SHARP , Returning 1500hrs

Price:  $360pp (GST included)

• Google Calendar
• Outlook 365
• Outlook Live

CYCA Principal Sponsor

Cyca official sponsors, helly hansen, club marine, income asset management, sydney brewery, lgt crestone, the luxury collection, winnings appliances, roads and maritime services, cyca youth sailing academy sponsors and supporters, helly hansen, forecasts.global, vibe hotels, network marine, sun foundation.

GLOBAL WEBSITES

• ITWfoodequipment.com
• hobartcorp.com
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

Asia Pacific

• New Zealand
• View Locations
• Submit an Inquiry

FIND THE NEAREST SERVICE AGENT

More Brands

• SYDNEY, NSW
• MELBOURNE, VIC
• HOBART, TAS
• BRISBANE, QLD
• ADELAIDE, SA
• CANBERRA, ACT

Russia detains suspects as death toll from Moscow concert hall attack continues to rise

US had warned of potential attack

International response

Send your stories to [email protected].

Auto news: The terrifying moment a Ferrari narrowly misses a jogger.

Top Stories

'Today is a wonderful day': China lifts tariffs on Aussie wine

The overlooked leak that caused the US' worst nuclear accident

'Wow, just wow': Roosters denied try after controversial Bunker call in loss to Panthers

McDonald's worker bashed by group while working

StarsInsider

The most popular vacation spots the year you were born

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: February 22, 2024

Where should you travel to this year? Well, if you're looking for inspiration, why not take a look at top destinations throughout the years? You might even end up visiting the most popular tourist destination in the year you were born!

Click on to find out which were the most popular vacation spots from 1950 to 2009.

You may also like: Celebrities who looked amazing pregnant

2009: Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. receives its fair share of tourists every year, but on January of 2009, Barack Obama was sworn in as President of the United States. The inauguration attracted an estimated 1.8 million people to the area. 

Follow us and access great exclusive content every day

2008: Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda

The capital of the Caribbean island nation has everything to keep a tourist happy. From luxurious shops to stunning scenery, it's easy to see how Saint John's became so popular. 

You may also like: The world's most difficult languages to learn

2007: New Orleans, Louisiana

Mardi Gras was particularly special in 2007. It marked two years after the devastating Hurricane Katrina hit the area , so people really wanted to party and celebrate life!

2006: Malibu, California

Why travel far when you have Malibu just a short drive from LA? Surfers often head there, and so do many other tourists. 

You may also like: Celebrities with autism who are changing our perceptions

2005: Dubrovnik, Croatia

This charming city on the Adriatic coast became a tourist hotspot around 2005. Teeming with history and beautiful sights, Dubrovnik remains popular to this day. 

2004: Grindavík, Iceland

The steamy Blue Lagoon alone was a good enough reason to visit the land of fire and ice.

You may also like: Controversial celebrity scandals that shocked the world

2003: St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis

Gorgeous beaches and luxurious resorts made many tourists visit this Caribbean paradise. 

2002: Bangkok, Thailand

'The Beach' starring Leonardo DiCaprio was partly responsible for the backpacking boom in Southeast Asia. The movie, which came out two years prior, led many visitors to Bangkok and beyond. 

You may also like: Cities with the best weather in the world

2001: Monte Carlo, Monaco

The 2001 Monaco Grand Prix attracted tourists from all over the world, and F1 fans from across the pond were no exception. 

2000: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

In 2000, attractions such as the Burj Al Arab and the Emirates Towers made Dubai a hotspot to visit. 

You may also like: "Italian" food that would make a real Italian cringe

1999: New York City

The new millennium was a huge event. Thousands flocked to New York City to celebrate the turn of the century. 

1998: Cancun, Mexico

By 1998, Cancun had become a Spring Break mecca for US college students.

You may also like: The mysterious prehistoric city that has baffled scientists for years

1997: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

In 1997, many Americans hit the road and explored their country. Spots such as the Grand Canyon National Park were among the most popular destinations. 

1996: Kruger National Park, South Africa

Safari tours were a big trend back then, and African safaris were the cream of the crop. This was especially true for the famous Kruger National Park in South Africa.

You may also like: Daily habits that increase your risk of getting sick

1995: Miami Beach, Florida

Shows such as 'Miami Vice' put Miami Beach on the tourist trail again. From the beautiful Art Deco architecture and the beaches to the exciting nightlife, Miami was the place to visit.

1994: Moscow, Russia

The end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union attracted many American visitors to Russia. By the mid- '90s, Moscow had become a popular destination. 

You may also like: Biggest actor mistakes that were kept in the movie

1993: Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha's Vineyard was put on the map by the Clintons, who would go there on vacation. Soon enough it became a hotspot for other Americans too. 

1992: Prague, Czech Republic

Tourists flocked to Prague in the year Czechoslovakia dissolved. Perhaps they were scared things would change dramatically after the split and wanted to visit the city in all its glory. 

You may also like: The trans celebrities blazing a trail to acceptance

1991: Kuda Bandos, Maldives

The Maldives is indeed paradisiacal, with its pristine waters and luxury resorts. In the early '90s, many American tourists discovered this gem. 

1990: Menorca, Spain

The less crowded Balearic island saw American tourists arriving on the island looking for a relaxing time under the warm Mediterranean sun. 

You may also like: Stars who were paid shockingly low salaries

1989: Chateau d'Oex, Switzerland

The country is mostly known for its ski resorts, but in 1989 the International Hot Air Balloon Festival also attracted many visitors.

1988: Valletta, Malta

Malta's exquisite architecture and clear blue water has attracted many visitors over the years, and Americans were no different. 

You may also like: What really happens during an autopsy

1987: Half Moon Island, Antarctica

Travelling to a remote place, away from it all, with some wildlife for company, sounded like the perfect vacation for many Americans back then. 

1986: Ibiza, Spain

The Balearic island in the Mediterranean is well known for its golden beaches, amazing scenery, and buzzing nightlife. American tourists had been visiting it since the '60s, but in '80s it really went mainstream. 

You may also like: Movies that should have gotten a sequel, but didn't

1985: Tokyo, Japan

The city where tradition and technology are equally present became a popular destination in 1985.

1984: Istanbul, Turkey

The place where East meets West is something of a cultural melting pot. From the Grand Bazaar to the Blue Mosque, Istanbul became a vibrant destination that attracted tourists from all over the world. 

You may also like: The dramatic life of Jean Harlow, Hollywood's original "Blonde Bombshell"

1983: Sydney, Australia

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and other events attracted large crowds to the Harbor city Down Under.

1982: Cruise ships

The early '80s saw a boom in cruise ship vacations. Its popularity soared among American tourists in 1982.

You may also like: The gruesome ways saints have died

1981: Eleuthera, Bahamas

American tourists started to flock to the Caribbean in the early '80s. Places such as Ten Bay Beach and Windermere Island in the Bahamas became popular hotspots. 

1980: Versailles, France

Instead of scaring visitors away, the 1978 bombing by the Breton Liberation Front made people want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site while they still could. In 1980, many American tourists took that opportunity. 

1979: Havana, Cuba

Two years after US travel restrictions were lifted, Cuba started to receive tourists. It didn't last long though, as in 1982 the restrictions were back. 

1978: Aspen, Colorado

Skiing was hot in 1978. Novices and experienced skiers alike started to visit Aspen in search of fresh snow and adventure. 

1977: San Francisco, California

The Gay Freedom Day parade in June attracted over 250,000 people. San Francisco was definitely on the map for the country's LGBTQ+ community.

1976: Kaloa Beach, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti

The country might have gone through some political and civil issues at the time, but Kaloa Beach was a bit of a safe haven for tourists. Looking at the picture, it's easy to see why Americans couldn't get enough of it.

1975: SoHo, New York

SoHo was the place to be if you wanted to experience the best alternative culture New York City had to offer in 1975. The neighborhood was teeming with artists, performances, and so much more. 

1974: Coney Island, New York

Coney Island was the place to go in the summer, especially for those who lived in New York,  Philadelphia, and New Jersey. Its iconic boardwalk, theme park, and plethora of entertainment for people of all ages made it a popular vacation spot. 

1973: Bali, Indonesia

By 1973, tourism had picked up in Indonesia, with around 100,000 tourists visiting Bali that year alone. Gorgeous beaches, culture, and cheap prices attracted many Americans. 

1972: Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach became a hot destination for both its easy access from the mainland and everything else Hawaii is famous for: beaches, surfing, sunshine, and cool Polynesian culture. 

1971: Persepolis, Iran

To celebrate the anniversary of the Persian Empire, the last Shah of the Imperial State of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, threw a huge party. VIPs from all over the world attended, and the ancient site became popular. 

1970: Copacabana Beach, Brazil

This stretch of Rio de Janeiro became particularly famous in 1970, after Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx designed the iconic Copacabana promenade.

1969: Cocoa Beach, Florida

Thousands of people witnessed the launch of the Apollo 11 mission at Cocoa Beach, Florida. The John F. Kennedy Space Center, which opened in 1962, paved the way for the area to become a hotspot for anyone curious about space. 

1968: Monte Carlo, Monaco

The 1968 Monaco Grand Prix might have been one of the main reasons why visitors flocked to the Principality of Monaco, but surely yacht lovers also had a great time there. 

1967: Coral Beach, Bermuda

Not too far off the East Coast of the United States, filled with white sandy beaches, colorful reefs and amazing weather, it's easy to see how Coral Beach became a popular destination.

1966: Las Vegas, Nevada

This was the year the famous Caesars Palace hotel opened. Sin City was becoming the place to visit and millions of tourists did exactly that in 1966. 

1964-65: World's Fair, New York

Queens, New York was home to the World's Fair from 1964 to 1965. Fifty-one million people attended the Fair, making it the most popular destination during this period.  

1963: Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach became a different place after 1959, when the first Cubans started to arrive to the city. For this reason, many people wanted to visit. And of course, the gorgeous beach and the weather helped!

1962: Saint-Tropez, France

Saint-Tropez was as cool back then as it is now: a place where visitors would rub shoulders with movie stars and soak in the sophisticated European lifestyle.

1961: West Palm Beach, Florida

West Palm Beach became a popular destination for golfers, and it was a hotspot for famous lovers of the sport too. 

1960: Athens, Greece

The capital of Greece is a must-visit for any fan of history. But at the time, the city was also becoming a cool European metropolis that attracted the attention of Americans. 

1959: Dorado, Puerto Rico

The Dorado Beach hotel was a huge success, attracting tourists looking for sunshine and Latin American culture. 

1958: Rome, Italy

A city where old meets new, heritage meets cosmopolitan, all wrapped up in great food, wine, and entertainment—what's not to love? Rome was the romantic destination Americans loved to visit in 1958.

1957: London, England

Over a decade had passed since the end of World War II, and London started to attract even more visitors from across the pond. Rich in history, and filled with museums and theaters, London became a favorite for many Americans. 

1956: Paris, France

A cool city, filled with glamor, where entertainment, fashion, and art intermingled, Paris had that je ne sais quois that attracted American tourists. 

1955: Anaheim, California

July 17, 1955, was the date the first Disneyland opened. As you can imagine, families flocked to the new theme park from all over the country. 

1954: Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs was a cool, luxurious place to go on vacation. Golfing and celebrity spotting (Grace Kelly pictured) was popular among visitors. 

1953: Daytona Beach, Florida

With a gorgeous beach and the NASCAR Grand National Series, among other races, it's easy to see how this was attractive for tourists.

1952: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Going on a road trip across the Midwest was a popular choice back then. Visiting places such as Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone River, and Old Faithful made the trip worthwhile. 

1951: Tel Aviv, Israel

The recently-founded country attracted American visitors seeking good weather, beaches, and a buzzing city. Hotels such as Dan Accadia and The Sharon were among the most popular. 

1950: Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu was a popular spot in 1950, especially for those living on the West Coast. Gorgeous beaches and iconic places such as the Moana Hotel made this city a must-visit destination. This was nine years before Hawaii became a state. 

Sources: (Country Living) (Grunge)

See also: Which song was on the top of the charts when you were born?

More for You

Democrat Announces She's Leaving Congress

Dairy Queen is giving out free Blizzards in April

World’s largest snake Ana Julia found dead in Amazon rainforest just weeks after it was discovered

25 facts you may not know about the Civil War

The Most Famous Food Brands From Every State

Willie Nelson moves 2024 Fourth of July Picnic out of Texas

Supreme Court Gets Jan 6. Defendant Out of Jail

WH Press Secretary Abruptly Hangs Up on Radio Hosts after ‘Incredibly Offensive’ Dementia Question

Former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader Krystal Anderson dies age 40 after childbirth

Ukraine says a missile barrage against Russia's Black Sea Fleet was even more successful than it thought

6 Cars That Seem Expensive But Rarely Need Repairs

‘World’s largest small town’ offering $10,000 for workers to move there

Judge forges ahead with pretrial motions in Georgia election interference case

Family Finds 22 Stolen WWII Artifacts From the Battle of Okinawa in Their Father's Attic

3 underrated Netflix movies you should watch this weekend (March 29-31)

Shaquille O’Neal trolls Ben Simmons: “I want to learn how you can make $80 million and play 55 games”

Putin Issues F-16 Warning

Kenan Thompson speaks out on Dan Schneider allegations: ‘Investigate more’

United Airlines makes a baggage change passengers will like

Republican committee to select Buck's likely replacement, adding a challenge to Boebert's campaign

Current time by city

For example, New York

Current time by country

For example, Japan

Time difference

For example, London

For example, Dubai

Coordinates

For example, Hong Kong

For example, Delhi

For example, Sydney

Time difference between Hobart, Australia and other cities

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race - Hobart Village

• 24 Dec, 2023 04:45:00 PM

Everyone Welcome at Hobart Race Village.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy the atmosphere of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race in the Hobart Race Village, located in the heart of the race action at Kings Pier, Hobart.   The Hobart Race Village is open and FREE to the public from noon on Wednesday 27 December until Monday 1 January.    You don’t need to be a yachtie or even know one – everyone is invited to enjoy entertainment, shopping, food and drinks with a view of the race finish line!

Grab a coffee or breakfast from 08:00 hours each morning at King's Pier or work your way through the food options at lunch or dinner each day – there’s plenty to choose from:

• Kaki Lima (Indonesian street food)
• Kung Fu Canteen (homemade pan fried dumplings)
• Culinary Kitchen (chef-made comfort food with a twist)
• Jasmin Kitchen (halal rotisserie chicken & shawarma)
• Orlando Plenty (roasted coffee & homemade sweets)
• Monica's Fairy Floss (hand spun fairy floss)
• Daiquiri Isle (frozen cocktails and slushies)

Dark Lab operates the Devil's Corner Tasmania bar, full of hand-crafted wines from Brown Brother Milawa Vineyard. Each day, Brown Brothers will hosting Oyster Tastings in the late afternoon. 

Shop at our new 2023 Merchandise Partner Helly Hansen's retail store for all your Rolex Sydney Hobart clothing and accessory needs, or at the Richard Bennett Photography marquee, where the renowned photographer celebrates 50 years covering the race. Shop for yourself or buy a veteran or aspiring ocean sailor a New Year's present!  There’s entertainment for all ages, including an incredible lineup of Tasmanian talent such as DJ Supanova, DJ Johnny, and local bands Atomic, Nightshift, Sugartrain, and Montage.  The kids always love the face painting and dancing to live music!

If you’re keen to see the first yacht arrive and cheer them into the dock, watch the Yacht Tracker at  rolexsydneyhobart.com.au   and come down to the village to give the Line Honours winners a rousing Hobart welcome.   You can catch Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race updates live on stage at 10am and 4pm each day, with insights from the experts and, once the boats start arriving, live chats with sailors sharing stories of their race.   Plus, the race village is the best place in Hobart to watch the New Years Eve fireworks! With a view over the Derwent River and the marina, you have front row seats to a show like no other. Get there early, as entry will close once the village is at capacity.   For information on the race and to follow on Yacht Tracker, visit   rolexsydneyhobart.com

Congratulations to all the divisional winners of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

PHOTOS | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Official Prizegiving

PHOTOS | Day 5 Morning - Tasman Island and Storm Bay

PHOTOS | Day 5 and Day 6 finishers

PHOTOS | Official Presentation of Tattersall Cup and Rolex Timepiece to the Overall Winner

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race - A Race for the Ages

VIDEO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race - Rolex Daily Video Summary

VIDEO | Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023

VIDEO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Official Prizegiving

VIDEO | Race Update - 31 December Morning

AUDIO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Sked 10

AUDIO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Sked 9

AUDIO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Sked 8

AUDIO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Sked 7

AUDIO | 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Sked 6

• Line Honours

Full Standings available approximately three hours after the start.

OFFICIAL ROLEX SYDNEY HOBART MERCHANDISE

Shop the official clothing range of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in person at the Club in New South Head Road, Darling Point or online below.  

From casual to technical clothing, there is something for all occasions. Be quick as stock is limited!