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An eight-day expedition voyage from Sydney to Hobart aboard a small expedition ship, tracing the historic yacht race south
- Follow the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in real time
- Cruise the Bass Strait and Tasmania’s rugged coastline
- Celebrate the race finale and New Year’s Eve in Hobart
Trip Details
- Departs
- 26 December 2026
- Returns
- 2 January 2027
- Ship
- Coral Discoverer
- Operator
- Coral Expeditions
Experience the excitement and tradition of one of the world’s most legendary ocean races on this unforgettable 7-night voyage from Sydney to Hobart.
Departing as the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race begins, you’ll witness the spectacular fleet sail through Sydney Heads before following the racing action south across the famous Bass Strait. Along the way, discover dramatic coastlines, rugged Tasmanian scenery, and fascinating maritime heritage while enjoying expert commentary that brings the race to life. The journey culminates in vibrant Hobart, where the celebrations continue with the thrilling race finale and festive New Year’s Eve atmosphere, creating a truly unique blend of adventure, history, and celebration.
Departures & Pricing
Depart Sydney on 26 December 2026 aboard Coral Discoverer for 7 nights
- Promenade Deck (Category A) - from $7,630 pp twin share / $10,485 pp sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
Itinerary
- 1
SYDNEY
Please meet at either the Palm Beach Wharf or at the advised pre-cruise pickup locations in Sydney (found in your pre-cruise documentation). Guests will then transfer via Xplorer Tender from Palm Beach Wharf at 9:00 am to board Coral Discoverer.
Depart at 10:00 am, enjoy lunch as the ship positions off North Head, and toast the start of the Sydney–Hobart Yacht Race from our Xplorer Bar while watching the fleet set sail south.
- 2
COASTAL CRUISING & BASS STRAIT
Cruise past New South Wales coastal beauty while our guest lecturer provides commentary on race tactics and history. Crossing the Bass Strait offers a blend of presentations and deck-side relaxation with ocean breezes and sea views.
- 3
KENT GROUP & DEAL ISLAND
Weather permitting, land at East Cove on Deal Island in the remote Kent Group. Explore the lighthouse and swim or kayak in pristine, gin-clear waters, a serene encounter in untouched natural surroundings.
- 4
FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK
Explore Freycinet’s dramatic pink-granite peninsula and peaceful azure bays. Join an optional guided hike via the lookout or Isthmus Track to the iconic Wineglass Bay, widely regarded as one of the world’s most breathtaking beaches.
- 5
MARIA ISLAND
Visit Maria Island National Park, teeming with native wildlife including wombats, kangaroos, devils, and wallabies. Walk through Darlington’s convict-era ruins and venture to the dramatic Painted and Fossil Cliffs for history and natural beauty.
- 6
ADVENTURE BAY & NEW YEAR'S EVE
Today, visit Adventure Bay on Bruny Island for a hike to Fluted Cape or Grass Point, then arrive in Hobart to celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks over the Derwent.
- 7
PENULTIMATE DAY
Your second-to-last expedition day is flexible; shore activity will depend on conditions and guest preferences, curated by our Captain and expedition leader to maximise discovery and enjoyment.
- 8
ARRIVE HOBART
Arrive in Hobart around 7:30 am and disembark at Macquarie Wharf at 8:00 am. Complimentary transfers are available to city hotels or the airport for a seamless end to your yachting adventure.
* Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time by the cruise company and are not guaranteed
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Tips and gratuities
- Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs, & Kayaks
- Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
- All excursions with our Expedition Team
- Post-cruise transfers to CBD hotel or airport
- Voyage log & Photo gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
- Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
- All meals, chef-prepared on board
- Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
- 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
- Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
- All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
- Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging
Not included
- Items of a personal nature, such as souvenir purchases
- Premium Internet services
- Pre and post-cruise accommodation
- Entry visas & travel permits for the country you are travelling to/from
- Laundry service (available at a cost)
- Alcoholic & non alcoholic specialty beverages outside of lunch and dinner service
- Travel Insurance
- Pre and post-cruise flights/charter flights
Accommodation
CORAL DISCOVERER
Launched as Coral Expeditions’ original expedition yacht, Coral Discoverer is purpose-built to access remote coastlines and locations that larger ships cannot reach. With a shallow draught and exceptional manoeuvrability, she is ideally suited to explore Australia’s most secluded shores while offering a comfortable and capable ocean-going experience.
Carrying just 72 guests, the ship delivers an intimate and personalised style of travel. All staterooms are outside-facing, some with private balconies, and guests enjoy sweeping ocean views from light-filled communal spaces including the Xplorer Bar and sundeck lounge. Its also equipped with a full suite of exploration tools including zodiacs, kayaks, a glass-bottom boat, and the signature Xplorer tenders for easy access to remote shorelines.
As of September 2025, Coral Discoverer has undergone a full refurbishment with refreshed furnishings in all staterooms and a complete update to the public areas.
Staterooms
Main Deck (Category B): located close to the Dining Room, these staterooms are 18m² (195 ft²) in size and feature twin portholes for expansive ocean views, along with a desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding. The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower, and ample storage.
Main Deck (Category A): located close to the Dining Room, these staterooms are 18m² (195 ft²) in size and feature large twin portholes for expansive ocean views, along with a desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding. The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower, and ample storage.
Promenade Deck (Category A): encircled by a full-ship promenade, these staterooms are 18m² (195 ft²) in size and feature picture windows for expansive ocean views, along with a sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding. The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower and ample storage.
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom: located on close to the Lounge and Bridge, these staterooms are 20m² (215 ft²) in size and open out onto private balconies for expansive ocean views, along with a sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding. The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower and ample storage.
Common questions about this voyage
What is special about this cruise?
This voyage follows the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, one of the world’s most prestigious sailing events.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise is 7 nights from Sydney to Hobart.
Will I see the yacht race?
Yes, guests can watch the fleet depart Sydney Heads and follow the race journey south.
Is there commentary during the race?
Yes, expert commentary provides insights into the race, yachts, and sailing history.
What destinations are included?
The voyage sails from Sydney to Hobart, crossing the iconic Bass Strait and exploring Tasmania’s scenic coastline.
What happens in Hobart?
Guests can enjoy the exciting race finale celebrations and New Year’s Eve atmosphere in Hobart.
Is this cruise suitable for sailing enthusiasts?
Absolutely — it’s perfect for travellers who enjoy sailing, maritime history, and unique event experiences.
Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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