Views of the crews of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Ichi Ban heads south © Crosbie Lorimer

With a forecast that seemed to suit everyone, the focus of many crews on Boxing Day appeared to be on just how fast they could reach Hobart.

Bow Caddy Media spoke to some of the skippers and navigators on the dock before they left for the race start to see what they made of the forecast, how they expected to fare and who they thought might be favourites for an overall handicap win to claim the Tattersall's Trophy.

As so often is the case the 50-60 footer bracket seemed to be favoured by most – you'll see that Shane Kearns has an amusing take on that common choice - but there were a few surprise picks too from those with some insights on the preparation of their competitors.