This year’s edition commences, as is tradition, on 26 December. The distinct slot in the international sporting calendar has always been a significant part of the event’s appeal. Watching the race start, whether from the shoreline, on the water, or on television, remains an integral part of the Australian holiday season.

The departure from Sydney Harbour is an epic, celebratory occasion. It is the one moment when the colourful fleet converges – yachts ranging from 30 feet (9.14 metres) to 100 feet (30.48 metres) and crews both professional and Corinthian. The spectacle provided by the front-running Maxis is compelling, as their quest to take the psychological advantage of exiting the harbour first through the Heads rapidly unfolds.

Once out in open water, the 628-nautical mile (1,163 kilometre) race soon becomes a solitary experience for all competitors, notably during the long passage down the New South Wales coast and then across the easternmost edge of the exposed Bass Strait. That is where the race has developed much of its reputation as one of the world’s most daunting and demanding. Conditions can change dramatically throughout the course, even on the final section up the Derwent River, which can be as decisive as the previous 616 nm. Fickle winds on this 12-nm stretch can be particularly perilous and frustrating so close to the finish, where a warm welcome to the state capital, Hobart, is ensured through the organisational support of the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania.