MEDIA RELEASE – 25 September, 2025
Excitement is building ahead of the Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race (S2A), which will set sail from Sydney Harbour at 1pm on 11 October, 2025. Now in its second edition, the 1,200-nautical-mile race across the Tasman is co-hosted by the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) and Royal Akarana Yacht Club (RAYC), with Harken as naming sponsor and Palm Beach Motor Yachts joining as a valued support sponsor.
RPAYC Commodore Rob McClelland has confirmed his Jeanneau 57 First Picasso as the final entrant, sailing in the Cruising Division. First Picasso will depart Sydney a week before the racing fleet, with McClelland and his crew looking forward to both the challenge of the Tasman and the chance to welcome the competitors on their arrival into Auckland.
McClelland said:
“The Sydney to Auckland is a true trans-Tasman challenge, and we’re proud to see it growing as a fixture on the international calendar. Having Harken as our naming sponsor gives the race enormous strength – they’ve been long-time backers of sailing at every level, from grassroots to grand prix. We’re also pleased to have Palm Beach Motor Yachts on board as a support sponsor.
Founded by legendary ocean racing champion and Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) member since 1985, Mark Richards. Palm Beach Motor Yachts are built using their elite ocean racing DNA and proprietary V-Warp@ Technology to deliver class-leading performance and efficiency. The brand remains deeply connected to the sport of sailing, with their ongoing support for major regattas such as the Newport-Bermuda Race and the Palm Beach Motor Yachts 49ers at Hamilton Island Race Week, underscoring their commitment to giving back to the global sailing community.
The S2A course spans 1,050 nautical miles across the Tasman Sea, followed by a further 200 down the New Zealand coast to Auckland – a challenging mix of conditions at a time of year known for fast, trade-wind style sailing.
With Harken’s leadership as naming sponsor, Palm Beach Motor Yachts’ valued support, and the backing of both host clubs, the Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race is cementing its place as a true trans-Tasman challenge and a highlight of the ocean racing calendar.
Race Information
- Start: 1pm, 11 October 2025, Sydney Harbour (north of Shark Island)
- Hosts: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (Sydney) & Royal Akarana Yacht Club (Auckland)
- Entries: Still being accepted – visit www.sydneytoauckland.com
Media Contact:
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Phone: +61 2 9998 3700
Email: nick.elliott@rpayc.com.au