Two sailors have tragically died during the 2024 Sydney to Hobart yacht race as wild weather caused havoc on the fleet, resulting in mass retirements. According to the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), the fatalities involved one sailor from Flying Fish Arctos and another from Bowline, who were both struck by the boom during chaotic sailing conditions.
The incidents, which occurred during the first night of the race, highlight the inherent dangers of this famed event. Late on December 26, the sailor aboard Flying Fish Arctos was hit approximately 30 nautical miles east-southeast of Ulladulla on the New South Wales coast. Fellow crew members attempted CPR but were sadly unable to revive their teammate.
Meanwhile, the crew member from Bowline suffered similar fate after being struck about 30 nautical miles northeast of Batemans Bay early on December 27. Again, CPR efforts proved unsuccessful. “Our thoughts are with the crews, family, and friends of the deceased,” the CYCA stated, reflecting the deep sorrow felt throughout the sailing community.
This year's race has been particularly cruel, reminiscent of the tragic 1998 edition when storms claimed the lives of six sailors. That disaster initiated significant safety reforms for future races, emphasizing the rigorous assessment of conditions before allowing the event to proceed.
Despite the fatalities, CYCA has announced the race will continue. Vice-commodore David Jacobs remarked, “The conditions are challenging, but they’re not excessive.” Comments from Jacobs emphasized the competitive spirit, stating, “We’ve got almost a thousand sailors out there on the seas to enjoy themselves and test themselves against the weather.” He confirmed there would be reviews of safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed his condolences: “We have sadly awoken to tragedy... It is heartbreaking to lose lives at what should be a time of joy.” His statement underscored the cultural significance of the Sydney to Hobart, rooted deeply within Australian traditions.
The 2024 race began with 104 entrants, but by 7:30 AM on December 27, 16 boats had retired due to various issues including the loss of masts and mainsail damage. Among these was Master Lock Comanche, the race favorite and record holder, which retired after sustaining damage approximately 63 nautical miles off Green Cape.
Crew from URM Group and others also succumbed to the perilous conditions, with reports of gear damage common. “It is unusual to see so many of the larger boats pulling out,” Jacobs commented, highlighting their typical resilience against such challenges.
Of note, another sailor was rescued after going overboard from the vessel Porco Rosso, drifting over a kilometer from their crew before being recovered safely. Such narrow escapes, contrasted with the tragic deaths, paint the picture of what could easily become dire circumstances at sea.
Race committee reports indicated the weather conditions, characterized by winds at 25 knots and waves around two meters, were manageable for seasoned sailors. Jacobs noted, “The sea was not unusually large from what I have gathered.”
The remaining crews continue their race to Constitution Dock, with the first expected arrivals later today or early the following morning. The toll on the fleet remains sobering, forcing all involved to reflect on the risks taken for adventure and competition. The 2024 Sydney to Hobart will be forever marked by these tragic events, reminding everyone of the stakes involved on the open water.
