Hobart Harbour: Maxi Yacht Sailing & Mt Wellington Views

Summary

Sailing hobart’s harbour on a maxi yacht with city and mountain views

You’ll feel Hobart’s salty breeze as you sail its wide harbour aboard a real maxi yacht—with city views on one side and Mount Wellington looming ahead. Try your hand at winching or steering (if you dare), snack on fresh local treats with tea, watch for dolphins or seals alongside experienced crew, and catch those small moments only found at sea.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the deck just as the crew was sorting lines, and I could smell that mix of salt air and something faintly sweet—maybe eucalyptus from the hills around Hobart. The boat itself looked like it had seen some wild races (our skipper joked about losing a hat to Bass Strait winds once), but today it felt almost relaxed as we pushed off from the docks. Mount Wellington was sitting in the background, half in cloud, and I kept catching myself staring at it instead of listening to safety instructions. Sorry, Pete.

Once we got out into the wide part of Hobart Harbour, someone shouted “dolphins!” and for a second everyone forgot about their phones. They were gone as quick as they came, but you could hear people quietly hoping they'd come back. I tried my hand at grinding one of the winches—harder than it looks—and Li from the crew gave me this encouraging nod, like he knew exactly how much my arms were burning. There’s something about actually doing the work on a big Sydney to Hobart race yacht that makes you feel part of it, even if you’re just clumsy with ropes.

Tea was served somewhere near Bellerive—I lost track of time because there was this buttery pastry thing (can’t remember the name) and local cheese that tasted like grass after rain. The light shifted every few minutes; sometimes sharp on the water, sometimes soft when clouds rolled over Mount Wellington. I overheard two locals debating which bakery does the best scones in town—one of those small moments that sticks with you for no reason.

I thought I’d just sit back and let others steer, but by the end our skipper insisted I take a turn at the helm (“it’s tradition!”). My hands were cold and honestly I didn’t steer straight, but nobody cared. It’s hard to explain—there’s this feeling of being both tiny and lucky out there between city and forested hills. Still thinking about that view as we headed back in, sails flapping a little looser than before.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and sightseeing in Hobart harbour

• Board Sydney to Hobart race maxi yacht
• Sail around Hobart's large sheltered harbour
• View Hobart city and historic docks
• See Mt. Wellington and surrounding forests
• Spot dolphins, seals, and sometimes whales
• Take turns on winches and helm
• Enjoy local treats for morning or afternoon tea

Top questions

How long is the Hobart sailing experience?

The sailing experience lasts approximately 3 hours on Hobart Harbour.

Is food included during the sailing trip?

Yes, gourmet local treats are served for morning or afternoon tea during your sail.

Can I help sail the yacht or steer?

Yes, guests can try grinding winches or even take a turn at the helm under supervision.

Are dolphins or seals commonly seen?

Dolphins and seals are regular visitors to Hobart Harbour; whales are seen occasionally.

What should I wear for sailing in Hobart?

Please wear flat-soled shoes (sneakers are ideal) and dress appropriately for all weather conditions.

Is this sailing tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult's lap.

How many people will be on each sailing trip?

A maximum of 18 people can join each sailing trip aboard the maxi yacht.

What happens if minimum numbers aren’t met?

If minimum numbers aren’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes three hours sailing Hobart Harbour aboard an ocean racing maxi yacht with professional skipper and crew guiding you along. You’ll be treated to gourmet morning or afternoon tea featuring local specialties, with wine and beer available to purchase onboard before returning to shore.