Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race training weekend
Friday: A Foggy and Unusual Start
Sydney Harbour was transformed into an ethereal scene on Friday morning as a thick fog enveloped the city—a rare occurrence that persisted well into the afternoon. Normally, fog in the harbour clears by mid-morning as the sun rises and warms the air. However, on December 6, a combination of high humidity, light winds, and cooler overnight temperatures created the perfect conditions for the fog to linger. This unique weather event added an atmospheric touch to our first day of training.
As the fog lingered, we got straight into action. The crew completed critical safety drills and familiarized themselves with basic sail handling techniques. This initial preparation laid the groundwork for the more intense challenges to come.
Saturday: Safety, Spinnakers, and ‘Saving Fred’
Saturday was a day of growth, teamwork, and mastering key skills. The morning began with safety drills, including man overboard (MOB) practice. Using 'Fred'—a trusty boat fender as our stand-in victim—the crew faced the challenge of maneuvering a 70-foot, 42-ton yacht to recover a potentially unconscious crew member.
This exercise was an eye-opener. The team quickly learned how fast the vessel can become separated from someone in the water, underscoring the need for an immediate and coordinated response. The experience also built confidence in their ability to handle this high-pressure scenario, a critical skill for offshore racing.
After MOB drills, we shifted focus to spinnaker training, honing the skills required for handling this powerful sail. By afternoon, we headed offshore for an overnight sail to Pittwater.
The night passage offered the crew an opportunity to develop essential offshore skills—helming in the dark, adjusting sails on a moving deck, and managing themselves under red lights whilst at sea. At 2:00 AM, we encountered the fleet competing in the Blue Water Point Score Cabbage Tree Island Race, a thrilling reminder of the precision and speed needed for the Sydney to Hobart. By 6:00 AM, we reached our mooring in Careel Bay, tired but exhilarated.
Sunday: Refresh, Refocus, and Ready
Sunday began with a much-needed refresh at the marina, where the crew took showers and enjoyed a moment of shore-based comfort. Rejuvenated, we turned our focus to cleaning and prepping the boat for the Sydney to Hobart Race. Every detail was checked and rechecked, ensuring that both the crew and vessel are race-ready.
Gearing Up for the Sydney to Hobart
This weekend wasn’t just about training—it was about building trust, sharpening skills, and preparing for the unpredictable challenges of offshore sailing. From recovering ‘Fred’ to navigating overnight offshore, every moment strengthened the crew’s resilience and teamwork.
With the 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race fast approaching, weekends like this remind us why we love the sport and the adventure it offers.
Ready to join the excitement in 2025? Visit www.bluewaterexpeditions.com.au to learn more and secure your spot on the crew.