Fast ride for Sydney Hobart spectators

12:44 AM Sat 20 Dec 2008 GMT

'Onboard Bass and Flinders catamaran' Bass & Flinders

Rolex Sydney to Hobart spectators can stay with the fleet for a long time offshore as they head south. Bass and Flinders Cruises commissioned their vessel Ocean Dreaming in 2004, its a 34 metre cat capable of carrying 275 passengers, at 22 knots. It was a supermaxi ride and a few years ago a 12 race veteran declared; 'This is the best Hobart start I've ever had.'

Richard Forde from Bass & Flinders commented today; 'Depending on the conditions we can just about keep up with Wild Oats XI, Skandia, ASM Shockwave, ASAM Brindabella, Ichi Ban, Black Jack, Limit and Loki.

'If the forecast are right this year, it will be a spectacular sight as the fleets sets spinnakers as they come out of the heads. Last year we ran to Kurnell with the leaders, then came back through the fleet to the middle group, stayed with them back to Kurnell and then came up to the tail enders and kept them company until Maroubra.'

Primarily for whale watching during the winter months, Ocean Dreaming provides a fast stable platform for viewing this incredible race. With two enclosed air-conditioned decks fitted with TV monitors and three open decks, everyone will be able to see the magnificent yachts as they leave the Harbour and set sail for Hobart.

The trip will leave Darling Harbour, Pier 26 at the Aquarium at 11.30am on Boxing Day and cruise to the starting area on the eastern side of the line. After the start, Ocean Dreaming will move to the first rounding mark (ZULU) and watch the leaders round. Pending wind conditions she will follow the leaders south for about one to one and a half hours before returning through the fleet back to Sydney Harbour. The cruise will return to Darling Harbour about 4.00pm.

Richard summarised, 'With a lot of the sailors' families and supporters onboard, this will be the best opportunity to view the yachts rather than just watching the start from within Sydney Harbour. With the capability of Ocean Dreaming, we will be able to keep pace with the big maxi's even if we get a strong sea breeze. As the sailors families come on board, we find out which boats people want to follow closely and we try and get a good look at all those. Its very exciting for the families to see their loved ones out of the harbour and setting up, for what could be a very quick ride south.'

There will be Live Commentary of the race, there are great outside viewing areas. A seafood buffet lunch will be provided and there is a licensed bar onboard for the purchase of drinks.

Tickets can be purchased by phone on (02) 9583 1199 or email your request to bassflinders@bassflinders.com.auand for just $225 for adults they are selling fast!

by Rob Kothe

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