The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race traditionally starts at 1:00 pm on Boxing Day (26 December) each year, with the fleet departing from Sydney Harbour.

Quick timing facts

  • Start time: 1:00 pm local time in Sydney.
  • Start day: Every year on Boxing Day, 26 December , as a long‑running Australian summer tradition.
  • Location: The race start line is set inside Sydney Harbour , with yachts then heading out through Sydney Heads toward Hobart.

For the 2025 edition

  • In 2025 , the race is scheduled to start at 1:00 pm on Friday, 26 December 2025 , marking the 80th edition of the event.
  • Transport and event information sites note that by about 3:00 pm the fleet has usually cleared Sydney Harbour and is heading down the coast.

Meta description (SEO):
Wondering when does the Sydney to Hobart yacht race start? The iconic ocean race begins at 1:00 pm on Boxing Day each year from Sydney Harbour, drawing huge crowds and global attention.

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