Crowds swarm Hobart’s waterfront for glimpse of Sydney-Hobart fame

Spectators swarmed Hobart’s waterfront early Thursday morning to greet finishing boats in this year’s Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race, providing a hero’s welcome for the yachts who braved the wilds of the Bass Strait. Watch here.

Spectators swarmed Hobart’s waterfront early Thursday morning, providing a hero’s welcome for the yachts who braved the wilds of the Bass Strait in the Sydney to Hobart Race.

In an even split between the Andoo Comanche and the LawConnect, crowds soon rushed the docking yachts to celebrate their impressive feats.

Cheering from the sidelines in the LawConnect camp was Margaret and David Fisk from Hobart who said they come down every year to watch the finale of the Sydney to Hobart.

“It’s a nice place to be during summer – the weather is beautiful, there is plenty to eat and drink nearby and it’s a good opportunity to gawk at these beautiful boats,” Ms Fisk said.

2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart yacht race, Hobart spectators. Picture: Chris Kidd

“I’m the one who is really into the boats and sailing – often times hanging around at the waterfront is when you can chat to the skippers and captains of yachts and you get the ins-and-outs of the race that viewers don’t get to know,” Mr Fisk said.

John and Stephen, friends from Melbourne, flew down to Hobart to watch the winning boats glide into the harbour, watching as the runner-up Andoo Comanche drifted into Franklin Wharf.

Both long-term sailing fans, the pair said this year’s race had been exciting to track.

“It was super tight at the end there, made for very good viewing,” John said.

“I really thought the Comanche would have it, but apparently not – still, I always enjoy keeping track of the Sydney to Hobart.”

HOBART, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 28: Spectators gather to watch the LawConnect sail into Constitution Dock during the 2023 Sydney to Hobart, on December 28, 2023 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)

Stephen said watching the famous race “[felt] like summer”.

“It’s just a great time and a great atmosphere, and it’s so wonderful to see Hobart so full of life,” he said.

“You can watch the winners dock, then go and have a coffee – then half an hour later everyone’s ready for a beer.

“Especially today, we got great weather and a big crowd – what could be better than this?”

Originally published as Crowds swarm Hobart’s waterfront for glimpse of Sydney-Hobart fame