The fleet of 102, including a race-record equalling contingent of 27 overseas boats hoisted a sail as thousands of spectators lined Sydney harbour foreshore to catch a glimpse of the start of the 2016 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
Sydney Harbour was awash with watercraft of all shapes and sizes as some of the world's most advanced yachts jostled for early advantage in their epic race to Hobart.
A flotilla of revellers watched on as 1pm, Boxing Day approached and with it, the 73rd edition of the 630-nautical mile classic. They were crammed into luxury motorboats, old crayfishing craft and everything in between.
The crowd wasn't limited to the water either, with thousands perched on the harbour's banks.
While it was a party atmosphere at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia where many of the 102 yachts set off, the mood quickly turned to the business of racing at a chaotic start line.
Concubine skipper Jason Ward said while it was his third Sydney to Hobart, it was impossible not to feel excited and nervous ahead of the race.
Meanwhille, the forecast on Boxing Day morning continued to show north easterlies through Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday.
"Having this forecast, an opportunity to try to get the record back is super important for the Wild Oats family," Wild Oats XI tactician Ian Murray said.
Korean Program looks into the overview of the Sydney-Hobart race in details.
