Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Cruises
Captain Cook Cruises provides viewing experiences for the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race start on Sydney Harbour on December 26, 2026. Options include a lunch cruise or a catamaran chase.
What to Expect
Front-row seats to the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race start.
Event Details
Duration
3 hours (Lunch Cruise) / 2.5 hours (Race towards Bondi)
Ages
All ages (infants under 4 travel free, children under 18 must be escorted by an adult)
Neighborhood
Sydney Harbour
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Captain Cook Cruises
Food & Drink
Lunch cruise includes dining and bar packages. Race towards Bondi cruise is BYO drinks and picnic.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Watching the sydney to hobart yacht race start
Vibe
Exciting, festive, scenic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (except for whale watching)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $199.00
- Parking: Car parking specials are available. Refer to the 'Car Parking Specials' page for details.
- Accessibility: Most scheduled cruises are wheelchair accessible. View the Accessibility page for further details and wharf access. Accredited assistance animals are welcome onboard.
- Pets: Accredited assistance animals are welcome. Pets are allowed on Ferry Services with permission from crew prior to boarding, subject to conditions.
Tips & Advice
- Book well in advance, as Boxing Day on Sydney Harbour is extremely popular and cruises often sell out.
- Check your booking confirmation carefully for the correct departure wharf (Circular Quay Wharf 6 or King Street Wharf 1) and arrive 15-30 minutes before departure.
- If opting for the 'Race towards Bondi' cruise, remember to pack your own picnic and drinks, as these are not provided.
- Dress in smart casual or smart & stylish attire; thongs, singlets, and beachwear are not permitted on dining and sightseeing cruises.
- Consider the weather; while cruises operate in sheltered waters, it's advisable to dress in layers for comfort on deck.
Special Events & Promotions
- Save $24.00 on the 11:30am Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Lunch Cruise.
- Join the Captain's Club for exclusive deals and the chance to cruise for free on your birthday.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for the cruises?
Smart casual or smart & stylish is recommended for Dining, Harbour Bar, and Premium Sightseeing Cruises. Thongs, singlets, and beachwear are not permitted.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
The 'Race towards Bondi' cruise allows BYO drinks and picnic. For other dining cruises, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, and BYO alcohol is not permitted on licensed vessels.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Cruises operate in sheltered waters regardless of weather, with indoor seating available. Whale Watching cruises are subject to weather conditions and may be cancelled.
Are the vessels wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most scheduled cruises are wheelchair accessible. Please refer to the Accessibility page for detailed information.
What is the difference between the two Boxing Day cruise options?
The Lunch Cruise offers a seated dining experience with live TV coverage, while the 'Race towards Bondi' cruise is a faster catamaran experience where you follow the fleet and can bring your own picnic and drinks.
More Christmas Events near Sydney
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.