Be part of the scene at one of the world's great blue water classics.

Each December you can see the world's greatest yachts charging through Sydney Heads as they take part in the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Once through The Heads, they turn south knowing they are casting their fate to the might of the great Southern Ocean and the winds of the Roaring Forties. The 628-nautical-mile-course is described as one of the most gruelling ocean races in the world. Since 1945, this blue water classic has thrilled Australians, and thousands line Sydney Harbour or form farewell flotillas to cheer the departing yachties.

Days later, in Hobart, the excitement builds as news of which boat will be first comes through. You could be one of the hundreds who head to Constitution Dock to welcome the weary crews. Then it's celebration time with the Taste of Tasmania food fair and the Hobart Summer Festival.