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Crew Space on Class 40 – Vixen Racing for Noakes Sydney to Gold Coast Race 2026

Cost

AUD $5,500 pp

Event dates

22nd Jul 2026 - 26th Jul 2026

What's included

The price includes the professional crew and all food onboard, bunk/storage, fuel/berthing fees, AIS/PLB lifejacket and professional coaching.
Additional costs are personal travel and transfers shore accommodation, insurance, medicals, meals ashore, alcohol, any visas required and personal logbooks.

What to expect

This is an iconic Australian offshore race, part of the east coast bluewater calendar. Renowned for tactical coastal navigation and variable weather. Gain real experience through hands on sailing, clear coaching, and meaningful responsibility on board, whether you are racing live or building offshore capability.

This 384nm sprint race that blends tactical coastal currents with exposed ocean segments. The course is a masterclass in Sydney to Hobart race training—from trimming in heavy air to navigation through congested waters and currents.

Expect a fleet of ambitious teams, intense weather routing, and race conditions that mirror the opening stages of the Sydney to Hobart. Helm quotas, evolutions under pressure, and brisk strategy sessions at sea combine to shape sailors primed for professional-grade performance.

Itinerary

23rd July – Depart Sydney Harbout – Race starts
27th July – Expected arrival Southport, Gold Coast

Crew information

Vixen Racing is led by double Olympian, Sharon Ferris-Choat, a Canadian-born New Zealander who has raced around the world three-times and is a world speed record holder.

Taylor Edwards is a versatile skipper and coach. He has worked across the spectrum — from dinghies and high-performance race boats to skippering offshore cruising yachts.

Prerequisite experience

We would suggest that offshore race experience would be preferred for this ‘moderately’ difficult event.

Where

Australia

Accommodation

Accommodation ashore will be required when not racing. During racing ‘hot-bunking’ may be in place.

Crew Space on Class 40 – Vixen Racing for Noakes Sydney to Gold Coast Race 2026

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The Sydney to Gold Coast Yacht Race is one of Australia’s premier offshore sailing events, offering an exhilarating 384-nautical-mile challenge along the stunning New South Wales and Queensland coastline..... read more
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Noakes Sydney to Gold Coast Race

Class 40 – Vixen Racing

Vixen Racing is a modified Class 40 from the design board of Guillaume Verdier. She was launched in 2008 as Desafio Cabo de Horno and won the Global Ocean Race. With a new carbon rig and bowsprit, modern electronics, 600L water ballast, and a clean systems layout. Vixen Racing is fast enough to punish sloppy technique and reward good calls....
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