Introducing the Southern Cross Series
by Cruising Yacht Club of Australia 11 Aug 2025 23:57 PDT
You're Invited | 2025/2026 Southern Cross Series © Cruising Yacht Club of Australia
Three iconic races. One ambitious goal. And only one inaugural Southern Cross Series champion.
The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is proud to invite eligible yachts and crew to compete in the inaugural Southern Cross Series. From the iconic shores of Sydney Harbour to the challenging waters of the Tasman Sea and Bass Strait, a new era of offshore racing has begun.
Named in honour of Australia's rich heritage, the Southern Cross Series begins with the Cabbage Tree Island Race, then the milestone 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart, and will finish with the inaugural Trans-Tasman Yacht Race.
Learn about the races:
- Cabbage Tree Island Race (5 December 2025): Kicking off the series, the 172 nautical mile blue water classic sees competitors racing towards Port Stephens and back to Sydney. The shakedown begins Friday 5 December at 1700 hours, with competitors exiting the Harbour just in time for sunset.
- 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (26 December 2025): Celebrating over 80 years of legendary racing, the 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is set to draw over 100 entrants from around the globe. The fleet will battle it out across the 628 nautical mile course, with some of the most demanding but rewarding conditions ocean racing has to offer.
- Inaugural Trans-Tasman Yacht Race (27 February 2026): The series concludes with a historic debut. The Trans-Tasman Yacht Race is a 1,250 nautical mile challenge with a staggered start on Sydney Harbour over the course of three days. Competitors will set off on a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they sail across Tasman Sea, around the northern tip of New Zealand to the finish line in Waitemata Harbour, Auckland. The fleet will finish together in style, in conjunction with race finish partner Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, home of the America's Cup.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up to be a part of, what are arguably three of the most exciting races on the international offshore sailing calendar.
Enter here.