As the countdown continues toward the start of the 2025 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race, five yachts skippered by members of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) are preparing to take on the 1250-nautical-mile offshore challenge across the Tasman Sea. These boats reflect the diversity, seamanship, and racing pedigree that the RPAYC is known for, with skippers bringing extensive offshore experience and a strong spirit of competition.

Here’s a closer look at the RPAYC entries:

First Picasso – Jeanneau 57

• Sail No: 57

• • kipper: Robert McClelland

    First Picasso is a Jeanneau 57 skippered by Robert McClelland. This elegant cruiser has proven herself in ocean miles and offers a strong platform for endurance-based offshore racing. Mclelland’s calm leadership and sailing experience will be invaluable as he guides First Picasso across the Tasman in style.

    Antipodes – Santa Cruz 72

    • Sail No: GBR2888L

    • Skipper: Geoffrey Hill

    Antipodes is a powerful Santa Cruz 72,  a proven performer with long-range capabilities and serious speed. Under the experienced hand of Geoffrey Hill, this sleek and fast cruiser-racer will be one to watch. Hill’s long association with offshore racing, including international campaigns, brings real pedigree to the racecourse.

    Frantic – TP 52

    • Sail No: GBR5211L

    • Skipper: Michael Martin

    Frantic is a formidable TP 52 known for her agility. Skipper Michael Martin will be pushing hard in this competitive division, where tactics, teamwork, and precision will be key. Frantic is built to handle the Tasman’s ever-changing conditions, expect this boat to be mixing it up at the front of the fleet.

    Wings – Dehler 46

    • Sail No: 07

    • Skipper: Ian Edwards

    Skipper Ian Edwards brings his well-prepared Wings, a Dehler 46, into the offshore spotlight. Wings has been campaigned extensively by Edwards, including previous long-distance races. Ideally suited for the trans-Tasman challenge, with Edwards’ steady hand and tactical know how making Wings a serious contender in her class.

    Coolooa – Swan 48

    • Sail No: 408

    • Skipper: Alan Hill

    Coolooa embodies offshore reliability and elegance. Skipper Alan Hill will lead this Swan 48 with quiet determination, backed by solid preparation and seamanship. The boat’s heritage and balance make her well-suited for the rigours of the Tasman Sea.

    With the race starting at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 11, from Sydney Harbour, RPAYC members and sailing fans can follow these boats as they race for the horizon.

  As the fleet surges toward Auckland, these RPAYC-skippers will be carrying the club burgee with pride across one of the world’s most challenging stretches of ocean.